The WWE NXT Championship became vacant when Oba Femi left the title in the ring after successfully defending it at the January 6 New Year’s Evil episode. With this unexpected development, fans and wrestlers alike are eager to see who will capture the vacant WWE NXT Championship and how the next champion will be chosen.
Oba Femi Steps Down, Opening Up the NXT Championship
During the New Year’s Evil special, Oba Femi faced off against Leon Slater and retained his title, but immediately after the match, Oba made a surprising choice by relinquishing the championship belt and leaving it in the squared circle. This dramatic turn caught many viewers off guard and instantly created a buzz among the NXT community surrounding the fate of the top men’s title.
Following the vacancy, NXT General Manager Ava stated that she would announce the plans for filling the championship on the January 13 broadcast. Her decision is highly anticipated as the roster, as well as fans, await clarity on the next steps for crowning a new champion.
A Tournament Could Decide the New Champion
One of the most discussed solutions for determining the next champion is an open tournament. This approach would allow a fair and competitive process, involving not just current NXT participants but also possible entrants from other major wrestling promotions. Talent like Ricky Saints and Ethan Page from NXT could be included, alongside stars such as TNA Wrestling’s Leon Slater and AAA’s El Hijo del Vikingo.
This mix of top performers from WWE’s own roster, as well as those from TNA Wrestling and Lucha Libre AAA, would help create an exciting and unpredictable tournament. With no current contender holding a clear claim to the belt, an open invitation guarantees both fresh matchups and the potential for standout performances.
Implications and What Lies Ahead for NXT
The outcome of this situation will have a domino effect on the NXT landscape. The unpredictable nature of a tournament involving talent from outside WWE adds intrigue and might set the stage for future crossover events or rivalries. Key figures such as Leon Slater, Ricky Saints, El Hijo del Vikingo, and decision-makers like Ava are expected to play major roles as the next NXT Champion is chosen.
As the January 13 announcement approaches, the WWE community’s attention will remain fixed on NXT to see which talents step up and whether the tournament route is officially chosen. The next chapter in the history of the vacant WWE NXT Championship is about to unfold, and it promises plenty of high-stakes action for wrestlers and fans alike.
