WWE SmackDown Star Dragon Lee has announced that he will be unable to compete at a major NXT show.
Despite being recently called up to the main roster, Lee currently reigns as the NXT North American Champion. Lee, who was announced as a last-minute replacement for an injured Wes Lee, captured the title for the first time in his career after defeating Dominik Mysterio at the Deadline Premium Live Event.
Dragon Lee was scheduled to be a part of the NXT New Year’s Evil special episode on January 2nd, but this will no longer be taking place.
As announced on social media, the North American Champion confirmed that he is unable to leave Mexico:
Feliz año nuevo! Sad news to kick off the year, but due to visa issues I am unable to leave Mexico right now. Por eso, I will miss @WWENXT New Years Evil… But the LWO has a big surprise for the NQCC and the NXT Universe tomorrow night.
Lee was originally advertised to team with Cruz Del Toro and Joaquin Wilde to face Drew Gulak, Myles Borne and Damon Kemp.
Further clarification on the issue has been provided by PWInsider, who states that there are no imminent issues with Lee’s visa. It is noted that the visa was approved but was delayed in getting to the North American Champion due to the post being delayed as a result of the holidays. Lee is expected back soon and could return as early as the January 5th edition of SmackDown.
WWE Announces Multiple Title Matches & More For NXT New Year’s Evil
The updated line-up for the NXT special is as follows:
- No Quarter Catch Crew [Drew Gulak, Damon Kemp, & Myles Borne] vs. Joaquin Wilde, Cruz Del Toro and a partner to be announced
- Roxanne Perez vs. Arianna Grace
- Ridge Holland interview
- Tiffany Stratton vs. Fallon Henley – Ranch Hand or Servant Match
- Riley Osborne vs. Oba Femi – NXT Men’s Breakout Tournament Finals
- Ilja Dragunov (c) vs. Trick Williams – Singles match for the NXT Championship
- Lyra Valkyria (c) vs. Blair Davenport – Singles match for the NXT Women’s Championship
As was seen on the show, multiple main roster WWE stars made appearances on the NXT broadcast.