With no official WWE Draft in 2025, there may be some increased movement between Raw, SmackDown and NXT coming in early 2026.
From big names that could pop by for a targeted feud, to another that could serve as an interim GM – there are some interesting options for WWE stars that might return to NXT in the coming year.
Here are seven WWE stars that could return to NXT in 2026.
7. Damian Priest
One star that fans have noticed has been taking a bit of time off as of late is Damian Priest.
With Damian Priest recently noting that he has been kept on a lighter schedule by intention by WWE, it could be that NXT is a solid place to land.
Potentially able to serve even as an interim GM, Damian Priest is very entertaining even when not engaged in heavy handed in-ring combat.
Leading to an eventual return to in-ring action on the brand, Priest could certainly build rivals for the future while taking it a little bit easier on his body today.
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6. Otis & Akira Tozawa
A pair of fan favorite veterans, Otis and Akira Tozawa could be incredible on NXT.
Alpha Academy remains an entertaining duo that absolutely shine when given the opportunity – something that could be easier to snag on NXT.
Able to command backstage segments in addition to having solid in-ring action, the duo of Otis and Akira Tozawa could be poised to join the rebuilding NXT tag team division.
With the pair interacting backstage with GUNTHER after his smug in-ring segment claiming credit for having made John Cena tap out at Saturday Night’s Main Event, perhaps the duo could end up being chopped back to NXT by “The Ring General”.
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5. Los Americanos
One of the most entertaining trios in WWE — El Grande Americano, Rayo Americano and Bravo Americano are Los Americanos.
Already kicking off a hilarious feud with Je’Von Evans, El Grande Americano seems liable to go anywhere.
Appearing on AAA and WWE Raw, the trio of Los Americanos (Ludwig Kaiser, Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate) could continue to expand their reach on NXT.
Able to pop by for intriguing bouts, it shouldn’t be forgotten that the men beneath the masks are incredible technical wrestlers which can certainly bring out the best in their peers.
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4. Bayley
A veteran presence that would be welcomed on-screen in NXT could be Bayley.
Whatever the character iteration, Bayley would be interesting to see make a big return to NXT but it could be even more prudent for her as she seemingly continues to find herself.
After taking a loss to Sol Ruca at Saturday Night’s Main Event, it could be that Bayley goes on a quest to NXT to relocate her passion.
Able to be seen on-screen interacting with many different stars, there could be a lot more compelling work for Bayley to do on NXT than the main roster at the minute.
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3. #DIY
A duo that could easily head back to NXT is Tommaso Ciampa amd Johnny Gargano.
After receiving a hero’s welcome when they recently returned for NXT Homecoming, the pair could have a unique opportunity to reclaim past glories on WWE’s third brand.
Whether returning as babyfaces, or continuing their heel work from SmackDown, Ciampa and Gargano could help strengthen the brand when stars such as Trick Williams, Je’Von Evans and Ethan Page get called up.
As well as the singles divisions, DIY could help rebuild the largely sparse NXT tag team division, the duo of veteran stars could be beneficial at the Performance Center for even a short stint.
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2. Sami Zayn
Another top veteran who could have some wildly compelling stories in NXT is Sami Zayn.
Potentially given more creative freedom on the brand, as well as having the opportunity to have serval first-time matches – Zayn could end up doing something major.
Bringing together emotional storytelling like few others are able to do, Zayn could definitely end up linking up with NXT stars and becoming a conduit to their call-up to the main roster.
Perhaps creating a pivotal continuity between the shows, Zayn could be a central figure that exists across WWE brands.
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1. AJ Lee
Another top name from the WWE Women’s Division that could make her way to NXT in 2026 might be AJ Lee.
Certainly a star that seems keen to give back to younger talent, it could be a lot of fun to see Lee have a rivalry with some of NXT’s standout stars.
Potentially cornering Tatum Paxley against Izzi Dame, AJ Lee certainly has some bullies she could choose from in the locker room to target.
Having not spent much time in NXT in its current iteration, it would be a breath of fresh air to see AJ, and perhaps her husband CM Punk make their way to Tuesday nights for a storyline in 2026.
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