Bayley stepped back into familiar territory this week — but according to her, NXT is nothing like the version she once helped build.
The former WWE Women’s Champion wrestled her first NXT live event in a decade on Friday night during WWE’s show at Buffalo RiverWorks in Buffalo, New York. Bayley was one of several main roster names working the event alongside Penta and Grayson Waller.
For the match, Bayley teamed with Kendal Grey and Tatum Paxley to defeat the team of Kelani Jordan, Nikkita Lyons, and Zaria. Before the event even started, Bayley admitted the return brought back memories from her original NXT run over a decade ago.
“10 years since I’ve done #wwenxt live events. Feeling nostalgic.”
Fans quickly flooded Bayley with questions online afterward, including what excites her most about wrestling in today’s version of NXT compared to the black-and-gold era she came from. Bayley made it clear the current generation has seriously impressed her.
“The challenge. It’s not the NXT I once knew and these women are DIFFERENT.”
Bayley was also asked what it means to see younger wrestlers openly crediting her as an influence after helping shape WWE’s women’s division during the original Four Horsewomen era. Her answer made it clear she takes pride in the impact her career has had on today’s roster.
“It makes me believe in putting everything you have into what you feel in your heart.”
When another fan asked her about her favorite opponents from her old NXT live event days, Bayley gave a response that instantly caught attention online because of one surprising name mixed into the list.
“Mercedes, Asuka, EVA MARIE.”
Bayley also had praise for her teammate Kendal Grey after sharing the ring with her during the live event.
“Annoying how talented she is.”
WWE isn’t done using Bayley on the NXT loop either. Bayley, Penta, and Grayson Waller are all scheduled to continue working NXT live events this weekend with stops planned for Canton, Ohio on Saturday and Johnstown, Pennsylvania on Sunday.
Do you think WWE should use Bayley more regularly in NXT to help elevate younger talent, or should she stay focused entirely on the main roster? Leave your thoughts and feedback in the comments below.
