Xavier Woods, widely recognized for his accomplishments with WWE’s New Day, began his professional wrestling career outside WWE, initially signing with TNA in 2007. Wrestling under the name Consequences Creed, he spent nearly three years in TNA and captured the TNA World Tag Team Championships alongside Jay Lethal. After his release from TNA in March 2010, Woods briefly competed in New Japan Pro Wrestling before joining WWE in July of the same year, where his career flourished.
Reflections on Transitioning from TNA to WWE
During a recent conversation on Rosenberg Radio with his New Day teammate Kofi Kingston, Woods focused on his move from TNA to WWE. Though he acknowledged other wrestlers had transitioned before him, Woods emphasized his unique achievement of establishing long-term success in WWE after coming from TNA.
Woods’ Perspective on TNA’s Legacy and His Role
Not to be pompous, but I’m the first success story from TNA to WWE,
Woods stated.
Yeah, I’m the first one. I would say I’m the first long-term success. What did he go by here…Braden Walker came over. Low Ki came over. But I’m the first one to find, like, long-term success from TNA…So if you really want to break it down, I’m the one that came over and washed the stink off.
He further expressed pride in defending TNA’s reputation, saying,
I’m the one who came over and said ‘TNA is a viable place. We have great talent. We have great homegrown talent.’ Because I think that TNA roster at that time is one of the best. I would put that roster against any roster in the history of wrestling. Some of the best matches, some of the best wrestlers on the planet [were there]. So many…it was crazy.
The Significance of Woods’ Success for Future Talent
Xavier Woods’ view of himself as the first durable success from TNA in WWE highlights a turning point for wrestlers transitioning between promotions. His achievements have possibly paved the way for other TNA stars to pursue opportunities in WWE with greater legitimacy. Woods’ acknowledgment of TNA’s strong roster during his tenure offers a perspective on the high caliber of talent that exists beyond WWE, underscoring the competitive landscape of professional wrestling.
Woods’ journey from TNA to WWE marks an influential chapter in wrestling history, demonstrating that talent from different promotions can achieve sustained success on a larger platform. This may encourage future wrestlers from independent or rival organizations to aim for similar breakthroughs within WWE.
