This week’s WWE NXT episode marked the addition of several WWE EVOLVE stars to the NXT roster, as a result of recent main roster promotions. This move brings fresh talent to NXT just as prominent names like Je’Von Evans, now part of RAW, and Trick Williams and Jordynne Grace, both joining SmackDown, advance in WWE’s hierarchy. The WWE EVOLVE Talent Join NXT roster is growing notably as the brand seeks to rebuild and expand its lineup.
Departures and Potential Shifts in the WWE Roster
Oba Femi, who relinquished the NXT Championship last week, has reportedly left NXT and may have plans to transition to the RAW roster, although no official confirmation has been made. This departure opens space for new competitors to make their mark within NXT’s ranks.
Details on WWE EVOLVE Stars Joining NXT
The official WWE NXT Twitter account revealed that Keanu Carver, Eli Knight, and the trio known as The Vanity Project—composed of WWE EVOLVE Champion Jackson Drake, Ricky Smokes, and Brad Baylor—have all signed contracts with the NXT brand. The Vanity Project, familiar with NXT through frequent appearances over the past year, remains a formidable unit, with Smokes and Baylor teaming as Swipe Right. Keanu Carver previously competed in the 2023 NXT Breakout Tournament and appeared regularly for WWE EVOLVE in 2025.
Eli Knight, who joined WWE as an ID prospect in October, made his NXT debut on December 23rd in a match against Tavion Heights, signaling his official entry into the brand’s competitive landscape.
Welcoming the New Faces to the NXT Roster
The excitement around these signings was captured by WWE NXT’s social media posts, celebrating the arrival of The Vanity Project and individual talents.
“Vanity Project is taking over Tuesday nights. 😎 Welcome to #WWENXT, @JacksonDrake03, @bradbay1or and @smokeshow_ricky! @avawwe_”
– WWE NXT
Among other announcements, the brand welcomed Eli Knight with enthusiasm:
“Congratulations to the newest member of the #WWENXT roster, Eli Knight! Welcome to Tuesday nights, @stepupplease! @avawwe_”
– WWE NXT
Similarly, Keanu Carver’s signing was highlighted:
“Get ready. 👀@KeanuCarverWWE is the newest member of the #WWENXT roster! @avawwe_”
– WWE NXT
What This Means for NXT’s Future
As WWE continues to shuffle talent between its brands, the inclusion of top WWE EVOLVE talent into NXT signals a strategic push to revitalize the roster with fresh energy and new rivalries. Fans can expect these athletes to elevate NXT storylines and competitions in the coming weeks. The departures of individuals like Oba Femi and the movement of key figures to RAW and SmackDown show a larger reshuffling that will impact WWE’s overall narrative across brands.
Vanity Project is taking over Tuesday nights. 😎
Welcome to #WWENXT, @JacksonDrake03, @bradbay1or and @smokeshow_ricky! @avawwe_ pic.twitter.com/a3UkQjRqeq
— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) January 13, 2026
Congratulations to the newest member of the #WWENXT roster, Eli Knight!
Welcome to Tuesday nights, @stepupplease! @avawwe_ pic.twitter.com/GbjXHG1p3U
— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) January 13, 2026
Get ready. 👀@KeanuCarverWWE is the newest member of the #WWENXT roster! @avawwe_ pic.twitter.com/XhERBaoeTR
— WWE NXT (@WWENXT) January 13, 2026
