Trick Williams joins WWE main roster as one of the much-talked-about NXT stars moving up in 2026, immediately signaling his intention to challenge top talent on SmackDown. Williams, who rose through the NXT ranks, made his presence known during a backstage encounter on the December 26th episode of SmackDown, setting the stage for high-profile rivalries as the Stamford-based promotion refreshes its lineup for the new year.
Williams Makes His Mark in SmackDown Debut
WWE, based in Stamford, announced significant changes to its roster, with Trick Williams confirmed as an official addition from NXT. Dave Meltzer, a respected wrestling journalist from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, reported Williams’ move to the main WWE roster, a transition highly anticipated by fans and analysts.
Williams debuted backstage during SmackDown, where he was seen in the general manager Nick Aldis’ office, highlighting his immediate interest in joining the blue brand. During his interaction with Aldis, Williams asked whether SmackDown could offer terms competitive to those proposed by Raw, WWE’s flagship program.
This conversation was soon interrupted by WWE Undisputed Champion Corey Rhodes, who arrived to discuss his ongoing storyline feud with Drew McIntyre. Williams exited briefly but returned, directly addressing Cody Rhodes in a bold exchange—reading out his credentials and warning Rhodes to hold onto the WWE title if Aldis succeeded in signing him to SmackDown. This move suggested that Williams aims to compete for the promotion’s top championship if his brand designation is finalized.
“Put some respect on @_trickwilliams’ name! 😤@CodyRhodespic.twitter.com/dCo68JzuOW”
— WWE (@WWE), December 27, 2025
Creative Plans and Potential Alliances
Triple H and WWE’s creative team are evaluating whether Williams’ new home will be SmackDown or Raw, with backstage talk indicating SmackDown as likely—especially as his real-life fiancée, Lash Legend, is already part of the brand. The company reportedly wants to maximize his impact and charisma, key qualities that defined his NXT run.
A potential storyline reuniting Williams with Carmelo Hayes, the recently crowned WWE United States Champion, is also under consideration. Williams and Hayes share a rich history from NXT, characterized by a memorable rivalry and partnership, culminating in their well-received clash at Stand And Deliver 2024. Hayes, who secured the US title after defeating Ilja Dragunov on SmackDown’s December 26th episode, displays strong in-ring talent, and WWE creative is keen on leveraging their chemistry, either as rivals or allies, now both men have advanced to the main roster.
Implications for WWE’s Main Event Scene
The arrival of Trick Williams on WWE’s main roster has injected renewed excitement and anticipation among fans, raising the stakes for SmackDown. His direct challenge to Cody Rhodes signals that Williams is set on climbing the championship ladder quickly, with potential matchups against established talents including both Rhodes and Drew McIntyre in coming months. The move also broadens future possibilities: whether Williams rekindles his partnership or rivalry with Carmelo Hayes, or develops a new storyline with Lash Legend, the creative direction under Triple H is poised to shape a fresh chapter in WWE programming.
With ongoing brand decisions and a renewed pool of NXT graduates, WWE’s evolving main roster promises intensified competition and dramatic narrative shifts, with Williams at the center of attention as he seeks to make an immediate impact in one of wrestling’s most high-profile environments.
Put some respect on @_trickwilliams' name! 😤@CodyRhodes pic.twitter.com/dCo68JzuOW
— WWE (@WWE) December 27, 2025
