WWE NXT has recently expanded its roster by officially signing several new talents, including Eli Knight and Keanu Carver. These additions follow a wave of promotions to the main WWE roster that created space for fresh faces on NXT’s stage. The new recruits bring a promising mix of skill and energy to continue growing the brand’s dynamic appeal.
Background on Recent Roster Changes and New Opportunities
In the last few weeks, notable NXT stars such as Je’von Evans, Jordynne Grace, Trick Williams, and Oba Femi transitioned to the WWE main roster, with Femi vacating the NXT Championship during the latest show. This created openings on NXT’s roster and championship scene, leading to greater opportunities for emerging wrestlers. NXT General Manager Ava addressed this shift by highlighting the potential for new stars to rise from the WWE Evolve roster.
Vanity Project and Other Key Newcomers Joining NXT
Among the confirmed new NXT wrestlers are Evolve Men’s Champion Jackson Drake and the trio known as the Vanity Project—Brad Baylor, Ricky Smokes, and Swipe Right. Their arrival was announced via NXT’s social media channels in anticipation of the weekly show, signaling an exciting infusion of talent to Tuesday night programming. The Vanilla Project is set to make a significant impact on the show’s competitive landscape.
Vanity Project is taking over Tuesday nights. 😎
Welcome to #WWENXT, @JacksonDrake03, @bradbay1or and @smokeshow_ricky! @avawwe_
?WWE NXT Official Tweet
Upcoming Developments and Championship Updates
Further new signings are expected, with vignettes gearing up to introduce talent like Elio LaFleur. Additionally, NXT General Manager Ava is scheduled to address the fate of the vacant NXT Championship in an upcoming episode, which will clarify the path forward for crowning a new titleholder. These steps emphasize NXT’s commitment to reshaping its roster and maintaining competitive storylines.
Significance of These Roster Moves for WWE NXT
These fresh signings reflect WWE NXT’s continuous growth and adaptability, responding to main roster promotions by bringing in promising new wrestlers. The infusion of talent such as Eli Knight, Keanu Carver, and the Vanity Project will likely boost the brand’s depth and excitement, giving fans renewed reasons to tune in. As the championship situation unfolds, these new faces will play key roles in shaping NXT’s future narratives.
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
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
