Jordynne Grace has shared her reasons for not rushing to join WWE‘s main roster after spending more than a year competing in NXT, where her journey has been marked by growth and ongoing storylines. The star, who is viewed as a future standout on RAW or SmackDown, believes timing is crucial to making a meaningful impact with WWE.
After signing with WWE in late January 2024 once her contract with TNA had expired, Grace made a notable surprise debut at the 2024 Royal Rumble. She continued her presence in NXT, working under Shawn Michaels’ guidance in WWE’s developmental system. Despite being tipped as a future major talent, Grace has yet to capture the NXT Women’s Championship. Her title pursuit hit a setback when Blake Monroe interfered at the Evolution event in July, costing her the championship and sparking a feud that has kept her prominently featured within NXT’s storylines.
Discussing her thoughts on a potential move to the main roster, Grace candidly told Self Made:
Everything is timing. I would hate—and I’m sure a lot of people would hate to see me go up there and nothing to happen. That’s the biggest thing. You just have to trust them. I trust them to bring me up when the time is right.
– Jordynne Grace, Wrestler
This perspective reflects concerns shared by several NXT talents who have moved up but struggled to find their footing amid the crowded rosters of RAW and SmackDown. Grace appears to prioritize developing her character and expanding her legacy in NXT before stepping onto the larger stage. She is currently engaged in the NXT vs TNA Showdown storyline, a unique angle that leverages her experience with both promotions.
WWE’s Strong Expectations for Jordynne Grace’s Future
Although some expected Grace would move quickly to WWE’s main shows given her strong background and immediate impression at the Royal Rumble, WWE officials have chosen to take a patient approach with her development. Grace debuted as a surprise entrant and impressed fans and WWE leadership alike, but the decision to keep her developing in NXT highlights the company’s intention to build her long-term value.
Reports from PWInsider highlight that WWE president Nick Khan expressed “high hopes” for Grace when she was signed, indicating the company views her as a significant asset. Alongside other notable signings like Penta, who advanced directly to RAW, Grace represents part of WWE’s effort to invest in distinctive talent for future prominence.
Supporting those ambitions, Triple H tweeted after Grace’s Royal Rumble debut:
If you’re not familiar with Jordynne Grace, you will be soon enough
– Triple H, WWE Executive
Grace’s second consecutive Royal Rumble appearance saw her spend 22 minutes in the match, ultimately eliminated by Guilia. Her combination of physicality, presence, and wrestling ability sets her apart, positioning her for potential showcase matches against top competitors like Bianca Belair, Jade Cargill, and Rhea Ripley, creating anticipation for her eventual rise to WWE’s main roster.
Building Momentum in NXT Before Taking Next Steps
Staying in NXT for the time being allows Grace to solidify her position and chase the NXT Women’s Championship, an important credential for her career trajectory. The championship pursuit and ongoing feuds provide a platform to showcase her skills and storytelling ability, which could translate well to the more competitive and crowded environments of RAW or SmackDown.
With WWE’s creative teams balanced between numerous athletes, Grace’s deliberate approach to timing aims to avoid the pitfalls seen by others who transitioned to the main roster prematurely and struggled for meaningful creative direction. Her willingness to wait suggests confidence in WWE’s long-term plan for her.
Ultimately, Jordynne Grace’s measured pace in WWE’s developmental system highlights her focus on readiness and impact, indicating that when she does move to RAW or SmackDown, she intends to arrive as a fully formed star capable of making an immediate impression.
