WWE‘s expansion of their NXT brand appears to be facing some setbacks.
Following the closure of NXT: UK, it was announced by Triple H that the opening of NXT: Europe would follow shortly after. However, nothing has materialised despite plans to open the brand by early 2023.
On an episode of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer was asked about NXT: Europe, as well as the rumoured NXT: India.
“They would want to do it. I don’t expect that to happen. One of the issues is they can’t really run shows there. That’s why the Indian talent, they brought to Orlando.”
“I could see them opening the NXT Europe thing, which by the way, was supposed to have been opened early 2023. When they got rid of NXT UK, it was early 2023 they were going to start Europe.”
“Now it’s not happening and it’s not gonna happen until after the merger. I’ve heard now the target’s 2024. But once they do that, I think it’s gonna be a while.”
Dave Meltzer then touched on WWE’s expansion to India.
“As far as India goes, it wasn’t one of the prime places they were talking about, but once they have three of four of them out there, could they go to India then? Yes, it could happen down the line, but I think it’s going to be a very slow process.”
Not too long ago, WWE had several wrestlers hailing from (or billed from) India on their roster.
Former WWE Champion Jinder Mahal is possibly the most notable example. However, names like Veer Mahan, Dilsher Shanky and Sanga have also been frequently featured on programming.
Whether they will end up on a future NXT: India brand is still up in the air.
Who Is WWE’s Most Successful Indian Wrestler?
The term “successful” is relative, but it could be argued that The Great Khali is WWE’s most successful wrestler from India.
Standing at well over seven feet tall, The Great Khali dominated WWE between 2006 and 2008, before finding his footing in the midcard until his exit in 2014. Khali’s pinnacle achievement was winning the WWE World Heavyweight Championship in 2007.
The Great Khali still interacts with his wrestling fans to this day. Recently, he declared that Roman Reigns wouldn’t stand a chance against him in the ring!
H/T WrestlingInc