WWE is reportedly keeping an eye on two NXT talents for possible promotion to the main roster, following the immediate impact made by Stephanie Vaquer and Giulia on Raw and SmackDown. The success of Vaquer and Giulia has encouraged WWE to consider bringing up fresh faces from their developmental system, which has been rich with promising wrestlers this year.
Ethan Page and Ricky Starks are the latest NXT stars likely to be called up soon. They recently clashed in a heated rivalry that culminated in a highly praised match for the NXT North American Championship at the Great American Bash. According to the Wrestling Observer newsletter, WWE continues to track their progress and is seriously considering promoting both wrestlers, impressed by their recent performances.
Page, who has held the NXT North American Championship and the NXT title, joined WWE’s developmental brand in May 2024. He previously drew interest from AEW. Starks made a surprise appearance on NXT shortly after his release from AEW and shares a close relationship with former champion Cody Rhodes. No firm timeline has been set for their debut on Raw or SmackDown, but it appears imminent.
There is speculation that WWE could replicate the successful call-up strategy used for Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens. Page’s reign as North American Champion may be in question once he moves up, similar to how other champions have been stripped of titles upon promotion. Owens, for instance, transitioned to Raw while still holding an NXT title and eventually lost it after establishing himself on the main roster. Given the history, WWE might leverage the existing rivalry between Page and Starks to craft a compelling storyline on the main shows, much like Owens and Zayn’s early main roster feud. Starks’ connection with Rhodes could also be developed to add depth to his character.
Fan Take: This news excites WWE fans because it signals fresh talent and new storylines coming to Raw and SmackDown, which helps keep the product dynamic and unpredictable. The rise of Page and Starks, especially with their impressive feud and connections, could bring renewed energy and intriguing narratives to WWE programming.
