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WWE Officially Adds Title Match To NXT Great American Bash

By Sridhar Krishnan • Published Jun 24, 2026 11:50 EDT
WWE NXT The Great American Bash logo
WWE NXT The Great American Bash logo - Source: WWE.com

NXT’s The Great American Bash is scheduled for this Sunday, June 28.

A couple of months ago, WWE’s roster underwent a major shake-up, which saw more than 20 talents leave the company either due to their contracts ending or to their choosing not to renew.

Several NXT wrestlers were on the list, too, meaning the developmental brand would now be required to bring names from its NIL and ID programs as well as EVOLVE.

And that’s what WWE did.

In addition to promoting the likes of Kam Hendrix, Tate Wilder, and Tristan Angels to NXT from EVOLVE, the company also hired EVIL from New Japan Pro-Wrestling (repackaged as Naraku) and Will Kroos from the British independent circuit (repackaged as Mason Rook).

Among female talents, Lizzy Rain and Nikkita Lyons found a permanent spot on the black and silver brand.

Since then, WWE has been building a strong card for The Great American Bash, with the match tally now finalized to 7 after a new title bout was added recently.

WWE Adds Zaria Vs. Tatum Paxley To NXT GAB

Since turning heel on NXT, Zaria has seen her stock rise among fans.

Zaria often complained about her friend and tag partner, Sol Ruca, being preferred over her as far as the title picture was concerned.

This led to the Australian wrestler turning on Ruca, setting up a feud between them.

After Ruca was moved to the main roster, Zaria set her sights on the NXT Women’s North American Championship, then held by Tatum Paxley.

She defeated Lizzy Rain in a singles match to become the #1 Contender for Paxley’s title; their match was finalized for the June 9 edition of NXT, which Zaria won, securing her first singles title in the company.

On the go-home episode of NXT on June 23, before The Great American Bash, Zaria cut a pre-taped promo, expressing displeasure over facing embarrassment at the hands of Paxley shortly after winning her first title.

Zaria spoke and challenged Paxley for a title match at Sunday’s premium live event.

The brand has also finalized three other title bouts, plus two grudge matches.

Tony D’Angelo will defend his NXT World Championship against Naraku, whereas in the women’s division, Lola Vice will put her title on the line against Kendal Grey.

Alongside Zaria’s title, the men’s NXT North American Championship will also be defended when Myles Borne faces challenger Tavion Heights.

Wren Sinclair will defend her WWE Women’s Speed Championship against Arianna Grace, who defeated Izzi Dame in the final of the Speed Tournament on Tuesday.

The grudge matches will see former DarkState stablemates Saquon Shugars and Dion Lennox clash, whereas Tristan Angels will face Shiloh Hill.