At the 2025 WWE NXT No Mercy premium live event, Ricky Saints defeated Oba Femi to win the NXT Championship, marking a historic moment and a pivotal change for the brand. This victory signaled the end of Femi’s dominant reign and positioned Saints as the new leader of NXT’s future.
A New Era Begins as Saints Addresses Fans
Following the match, Ricky Saints shared a heartfelt message with his fans and supporters who have accompanied him on his journey. His words reflected the significance of the win and the support he received along the way.
What a wild ride so far. And I’m not one to be a lost for words, but tonight’s different. It’s very, very special,
Saints said.
Tonight is a culmination of things that I didn’t think was possible, but I made it so. And not just me. People supported me. People believe in me. Fans, everybody. And now the absolute era truly begins.
Reactions from the Wrestling Community
The wrestling world responded quickly to Saints’ championship win, with WWE Universal Champion Cody Rhodes publicly congratulating him on social media. Rhodes’ brief yet impactful message highlighted the significance of Saints’ accomplishment in the industry.
Cody Rhodes wrote: Champ Rick.
Saints’ Victory Sets the Stage for NXT’s Future
Ricky Saints’ achievement establishes him as one of the fastest-rising stars within NXT and signals an exciting new chapter for the brand. With Oba Femi dethroned, fans and industry watchers now eagerly anticipate what Saints’ “absolute era” will mean for the direction of WWE NXT.
“Tonight is a culmination of things I didn’t think was possible.”
After a remarkably intense journey to the very top of #WWENXT, @starkmanjones is poised to lead what is being called the Absolute Era. 🤩
"Tonight is a culmination of things I didn't think was possible."
After a wild ride to the top of #WWENXT, @starkmanjones is ready to usher in the Absolute Era. 🤩 pic.twitter.com/CBZlLlghRg
— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) September 28, 2025
