WWE NXT’s UFC APEX Residency Plan Moving Forward With Cost-Cutting Strategy in Mind

The rumors about WWE NXT locking in a residency at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas are gaining momentum—and the move is shaping up to be a game-changer for the future of the brand and TKO’s live event strategy.

In the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, Dave Meltzer confirmed that the plan is indeed on the table, adding new details about why this residency makes so much business sense for WWE and TKO.

“There have been reports that NXT will do a residency at the UFC APEX. The idea is that the building would host major NXT events, which will enable the company to do them less expensively than taking them to major arenas, and also open up a second training site in Las Vegas.”

The cost-cutting benefit is a major factor here. By using the UFC APEX—a facility already controlled by TKO—WWE can avoid third-party venue fees, eliminate touring expenses, and create a controlled, streamlined environment for NXT’s biggest shows.

Beyond just saving money, the APEX gives WWE a second training site alongside the Orlando Performance Center, expanding its developmental footprint on the West Coast. The Las Vegas facility also positions TKO to maximize its NIL athlete pipeline, turning the APEX into a central hub for future stars from both WWE and UFC.

NXT Battleground 2024 proved the model works, with tickets selling fast and the production running smoothly. Now, it looks like the residency is no longer just an experiment—it’s part of the long-term blueprint.