WWE NXT has served as a developmental brand for a couple of decades, but recent trends have seen talent remain on the roster for extended periods in recent years. However, with several stars having spent multiple years honing their craft and achieving success on the brand, a roster turnover could be imminent.
Moving some established NXT names to Raw or SmackDown would create opportunities for newer talent emerging from platforms like WWE Evolve, WWE LFG, WWE ID, and TNA Wrestling to take on prominent roles. With that in mind, here are five NXT stars who need to get moved to the main roster now.
Credit: WWE
Tony D'Angelo hasn't appeared on WWE NXT television since being confronted by a mysterious figure at his restaurant during the July 29 episode. This absence has fueled speculation among fans that "The Don of NXT" might be headed to the main roster.
Having spent four years in NXT and capturing every championship except the NXT Championship, it seems like an opportune time for D'Angelo to make his mark on Raw or SmackDown. It would be interesting to see how his distinct "mob boss" persona translates alongside the characters featured on Monday and Friday nights.
Credit: WWE
Debuting in 2021, Lash Legend is one of the more tenured performers currently on the WWE NXT roster. After four years with the brand, WWE might decide it's time to give Legend a "sink or swim" opportunity on the main roster. Her size, strength, and commanding presence could allow her to make an immediate impact on either Raw or SmackDown.
Having shown significant improvement over the past four years, Legend could be positioned as a formidable monster heel, providing a compelling challenge for top stars like IYO SKY, Tiffany Stratton, or Stephanie Vaquer.
Credit: WWE
Jaida Parker garnered one of the most significant crowd reactions during the Number One Contender's Battle Royal at WWE Evolution 2025. Since debuting with the company in 2022, Ms. Parker has steadily established herself in the NXT brand.
After three years developing at the WWE Performance Center and competing in NXT, Parker appears ready for a main roster opportunity. Her natural charisma could help her quickly become a popular figure on either Raw or SmackDown. The SmackDown women's division, in particular, could benefit from added depth, and Parker's arrival could place an immediate spotlight on her.
Credit: WWE
Oba Femi lost the NXT Championship to Ricky Starks (referred to as Ricky Saints in the source) at WWE NXT No Mercy 2025. Since that loss, Femi has been absent from WWE television, leading to speculation that a move to the main roster could happen soon.
"The Ruler" is a former NXT Champion and holds the record for the longest NXT North American Championship reign. Possessing impressive size, strength, and presence, Femi appears to have all the tools necessary to become a major star on WWE's main stage.
Credit: WWE
Trick Williams has experienced a remarkable evolution during his four years in NXT, transforming from Carmelo Hayes's sidekick into the brand's top babyface. The former two-time NXT Champion possesses exceptional charisma and is widely regarded as one of the best promo artists in the entire company. Having proven himself in both NXT and during appearances for TNA Wrestling, Williams seems fully prepared for the brighter lights of Monday Night Raw and Friday Night SmackDown.
A move to the main roster could see him instantly make an impact by challenging top-tier talents like Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, or Jey Uso with his signature bravado.
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