Trick Williams, the reigning TNA World Champion and current WWE NXT Superstar, has addressed the subject of former AEW talents making their way to WWE NXT, focusing on high-profile arrivals like Mariah May and Ricky Saints. His thoughts on the topic were shared during a recent interview with Jon Alba on “The Takedown,” offering a measured perspective on the growing overlap between the two wrestling promotions and centering on the idea of opportunity and fair recognition. This discussion around new talent entering WWE NXT spotlights the ongoing evolution within professional wrestling, underscoring the relevance of Trick Williams comments on AEW stars joining WWE NXT.
Trick Williams Shares His Views on Former AEW Wrestlers in WWE NXT
In his conversation with Jon Alba, Williams provided candid feedback when asked about the increasing number of former AEW stars such as Mariah May and Ricky Saints joining the WWE NXT roster. Williams did not shy away from expressing his approval for newcomers seizing their opportunity to perform on such a prominent stage.
“Yeah, I mean, truth is I never hate on a man or a woman for getting their shine,”
Williams remarked, establishing his position on the matter. —Trick Williams, WWE NXT Superstar
Williams drew a comparison to his own career path, recalling the hurdles he faced adjusting as an outsider. He said,
“You know what I mean? Because the same way I said, hey, I was a walk-on and this is how I got treated because I wasn’t invited to the building or I was the outsider walking in. I mean, I would be a super hypocrite by saying, hey, somebody else doesn’t deserve to shine because they’re from somewhere else.”
—Trick Williams, WWE NXT Superstar
He then extended congratulations and encouragement to the newest arrivals on the NXT scene.
“Shout out to Ricky Saints. Shout out to Mariah May. Shout out to everybody who’s getting theirs by any means.”
—Trick Williams, WWE NXT Superstar
Williams’ Recent Ring Achievements and Broader Impact
Beyond his commentary, Trick Williams continues to remain active and successful in the wrestling world. Most recently, he defended his TNA World Championship in a main event matchup against Elijah during the TNA Against All Odds 2025 special held in Tempe, Arizona, claiming victory and reinforcing his standing as a dominant competitor in both organizations.
Williams’ remarks are part of a larger conversation ongoing within sports entertainment, as WWE NXT repeatedly brings in talent from other organizations, including AEW and TNA, generating discussion among fans and wrestlers alike. The willingness of high-profile figures such as Williams to welcome new competitors points to a more inclusive and evolving landscape in professional wrestling.
Opportunities for New Talent and the Future of WWE NXT
The presence of Mariah May, Ricky Saints, and others fresh from AEW fuels anticipation about WWE NXT’s future and its growing role as a destination for leading wrestling personalities seeking new challenges. With Trick Williams’ open-minded support, the environment within NXT could continue to shift toward embracing performers from all backgrounds, expanding the entertainment value and narrative possibilities for viewers and the roster alike.
This trend of talent migration and mutual respect among competitors is poised to influence both the professional lives of the wrestlers involved and the global appeal of wrestling brands such as WWE NXT, AEW, and TNA. As Williams defends his championships and offers backing to new arrivals, the competitive and collaborative spirit within wrestling remains vibrant, setting the stage for further high-profile crossovers and renewed fan engagement.
