WWE 2016 Rumors: ROH's Roderick Strong Headed to NXT?
After a period of repetitive scenarios involving the same set of characters, WWE may be headed to a bold yet exciting direction. Their developmental promotion, NXT, had produced some of the top-tier superstars in the company today.
The arrival of new, competitive wrestlers surely had a large part in WWE's intriguing storylines. Shinsuke Nakamura had been making rounds in the NXT as a long-time champion with extravagant entrances. Finn Balor got his hands on the Universal Championship. Charlotte, Sasha Banks, Bayley and Becky Lynch launched the Divas Revolution. And just last Sunday, AJ Styles won the WWE Championship.
Most of these names came from the independent circuit, where a huge crop of talent still resides. One of them is Roderick Strong from Ring of Honor—who had reportedly signed a contract with the biggest pro-wrestling company.
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Coming in Strong
Strong had gained a following in Ring of Honor, wrestling for 13 years under the promotion. He had been champion for five times across different companies.
In June, amid rumors that Strong would be moving on to greater heights, he announced his departure from ROH. The crowd cheered him on, chanting "you deserve it" as he delivered his speech. He emphasized, however, that what he deserves is different from what he really wants.
After he left ROH, former WWE superstar Batista tweeted in support of the 33-year-old athlete, encouraging his decision. Strong would provide a good addition to the franchise, especially on NXT, where he would probably be headed.
Next big thing
NXT was home to several superstars who have gone on to win titles in the WWE. These include Paige, who won the Divas Championship on her debut night against AJ Lee.
Aside from Balor and the Divas Revolution, NXT also produced the likes of Enzo and Big Cass, Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens. Owens eventually formed a team with WWE legend Chris Jericho. On the August 29 Raw episode, KO won the vacated WWE Universal Championship over Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns and Cass.
Strong will enter an already great roster, which would need depth following recent call-ups to the main promotion. With the great successes of NXT superstars listed above, he has a big chance to crack the WWE roster.
Strong's ROH colleague, Moose, is also rumored to heading to NXT, with his contract about to end as well.
