Blake Monroe Explains Why She Turned Down WWE Main Roster for NXT

Blake Monroe shocked fans when she popped up on the June 3rd episode of WWE NXT, marking her official debut after jumping from AEW. Many assumed she’d be main roster-bound straight away, but Monroe says this move was all part of her game plan—and she’s thinking long-term.

Speaking on The Ringer podcast, Monroe confirmed that going to NXT instead of RAW or SmackDown was her decision. She pointed to the massive star power of women like Bianca Belair, Rhea Ripley, and Charlotte Flair—and made it clear she’s got no problem stepping up to them. But first, she wants to build her base.

“Yeah — that was definitely part of my plan. Look at the amount of TV equity that Bianca Belair, Rhea Ripley, and Charlotte Flair have — they’ve got millions of followers and so much exposure. I know I can go toe-to-toe with them, but I thought, why not start with NXT?”

Monroe knows there are still fans who don’t know her yet, and NXT gives her the perfect platform to tell her story, grow her audience, and stand out in a division that’s constantly evolving.

“It gives me a chance to build my brand, to introduce myself to the WWE Universe — because a lot of people might not know me yet. I don’t think many of these younger fans would know who I am. So — I want to show them, tell them my story, and really make NXT my own brand. I truly feel like I’m doing that and can continue to do that.”

She also spoke about the advantage of learning from some of WWE’s most respected minds behind the scenes, explaining how training under top coaches gives her a stronger shot when the time comes to make that leap to the main roster.

“Why wouldn’t I take that opportunity? I can grow my TV presence, develop myself in WWE, use all the amazing resources here, and learn from people like Shawn Michaels and Matt Bloom.”

And Monroe’s vision is clear—when she does face off against WWE’s biggest names, she wants to be ready.

“So when I do go to the main roster and I’m going against these juggernauts, I really have the best chance possible to succeed. Because they are huge stars, so I’ve got to build myself a little bit, maybe.”

Blake Monroe isn’t rushing anything. She’s using her time in NXT to create her identity, sharpen her skillset, and build real momentum before eventually stepping into the spotlight on RAW or SmackDown.

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