WWE Makes Interesting Philosophy Change For NXT Call-Ups

WWE is handling NXT stars very differently in 2025.

At No Mercy, Ricky Saints finally dethroned Oba Femi to claim the NXT Championship. Not only did the result mark the biggest win of Saints’ WWE career to date, in the eyes of many, it also represented the start of a new chapter for Femi.

Oba Femi has enjoyed an impressive rise since signing with the company, and fans and critics alike are now tipping him to make a huge splash on the main roster. Most recently, Booker T said that he’s got no doubt that Oba Femi can take the main roster by storm, starting right now.

WWE Dealing With Prospects Differently

Despite a call-up appearing nailed on, there’s still a chance that Oba Femi will have to wait a little longer.

According to a new report from Fightful Select, WWE is being more selective and flexible when it comes to moving prospects to Raw and SmackDown. In theory, this allows for a smoother transition and better long-term planning, rather than abruptly removing stars from NXT storylines as has been the case in the past.

Call-ups are now being handled more “close to the vest,” with the main roster’s lighter schedule making it easier for Superstars to finish NXT storylines before being moved.

The company has also shifted how it approaches recruitment and building the NXT roster. In contrast to previous years, WWE now sees more value in having veterans on the roster to help add star power and experience to the on-screen product. In fact, some talent have been signed purely with the intention to have a full-time NXT run without a plan to move to the main roster.