Rhea Ripley NXT Homecoming Return is set to headline next week’s special NXT Homecoming event at Full Sail University, marking the brand’s first live show at its original venue in five years. The event will showcase multiple WWE main roster stars returning to NXT, reviving the atmosphere at the historic location.
Return to Full Sail University After a Five-Year Hiatus
Full Sail University served as the home arena for NXT from its inception in 2012 until production moved to the WWE Performance Center five years ago due to the pandemic. Next week’s NXT Homecoming event represents a significant return to the site where the brand’s history began, reconnecting with the fan atmosphere that initially defined NXT’s rise.
Major NXT Alumni Set for Homecoming Appearances
The roster for the Homecoming episode includes noteworthy returns from several former NXT Champions and prominent performers. The finale on this week’s NXT episode captured the comeback of Stephanie Vaquer, WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton, and Rhea Ripley, who together form a reunited trio. This group will compete against Fatal Influence—composed of Jazmyn Nyx, Fallon Henley, and the current NXT Women’s Champion, Jacy Jayne—in a featured tag team match.
Additional returned talent includes the tag team DIY, reuniting to face Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams in a tag match, with Hayes currently holding an NXT Championship. Tyler Breeze, one of NXT’s original stars since 2012, also resumed his WWE TV career tonight and is slated to challenge Ethan Page for the North American Championship at Homecoming.
Meanwhile, Grayson Waller is set to make his return by hosting a segment called the Grayson Waller Effect. This will feature Ricky Saints and the NXT Champion, Oba Femi, discussing their upcoming title match scheduled for the No Mercy event.
Additional Developments and Possible Matches to Watch
During the recent broadcast, Tatum Paxley and Izzi Dame earned the status of number one contenders for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship by securing a title match opportunity against current champions Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair. Although the match has not been officially announced for Homecoming, the promotional material for the show emphasizes Bliss and Flair’s history with NXT at Full Sail, hinting at a possible appearance or title defense during the event.
Significance of the Homecoming Event for NXT’s Future Direction
The NXT Homecoming special not only rekindles the connection between NXT and its original home but also spotlights several returning stars who helped establish the brand’s reputation. Bringing back key figures such as Rhea Ripley, Tiffany Stratton, and Tyler Breeze revitalizes the show’s roster, potentially attracting fans who followed NXT in its early years.
This event may signal WWE’s intent to re-emphasize its developmental brand’s legacy and build momentum heading into future NXT storylines and pay-per-view events. With several championship matches and reunions on the card, Homecoming is positioned to be a pivotal moment that celebrates the past while setting new directions for the brand.
“Stephanie Vaquer, WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton, and Rhea Ripley return as a dream team trio for a big match against Fatal Influence.”
—WWE Official Announcement
