WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels Discusses WWE NXT’s Move to The CW
This week marks a significant milestone for WWE NXT as it makes its broadcast television debut in Chicago, Illinois, the first of two major shows outside the familiar WWE Performance Center. Ahead of the big move from USA Network to The CW, WWE Hall of Famer and NXT head, Shawn Michaels, appeared on Busted Open Radio to discuss the transition and the excitement surrounding the mini-tour.
“It’s a big move for us,” Michaels stated. “Moving to broadcast television is absolutely huge for us, and the talent is excited. They’re pumped to go to Chicago and launch the show.”
Michaels noted that while some talent are thrilled about the debut on The CW, others are just as eager to step out of the Performance Center and perform in front of what Michaels described as one of the “most notorious” crowds in the country — Chicago’s passionate wrestling fanbase.
“It’s a fantastic atmosphere at the Allstate Arena, so everyone’s jazzed about going,” said Michaels.
Following the Chicago show, NXT will head to St. Louis, Missouri, the next stop on the mini-tour. Adding to the buzz, former WWE Champion CM Punk will make an appearance in Chicago, serving as the special guest referee for the main event between WWE NXT Champion Ethan Page and Trick Williams. In addition, Roxanne Perez will defend her NXT Women’s Championship against Giulia in Chicago.
The action continues in St. Louis, where local legend Randy Orton is set to make his NXT debut, taking on rising star Je’Von Evans. The event will also feature the NXT Tag Team Titles and WWE NXT North American Championship matches, further cementing NXT’s presence as it begins its new era on The CW.