The wrestling world witnessed another significant chapter in Blake Monroe’s career transformation as the former AEW Women’s World Champion secured her first victory inside a WWE ring. The star previously known as Mariah May to AEW audiences picked up a decisive win at Thursday night’s NXT live event in Fort Pierce, Florida.
Monroe’s WWE Journey Reaches New Milestone
Blake Monroe’s debut match came against fellow NXT newcomer Lainey Reid in what marked her first official in-ring competition since making the jump from All Elite Wrestling. The victory represents a crucial step forward for Monroe, who has been building momentum since her June 3 NXT television debut.
Monroe’s WWE contract became official after her AEW deal expired at the end of May. Her quick transition between promotions demonstrates the competitive nature of today’s wrestling landscape, where top talent can shift allegiances and create new opportunities.
From Wembley Champion to WWE Prospect
Monroe brings impressive credentials to her WWE run, having captured the AEW Women’s World Championship in spectacular fashion. Her title reign lasted 174 days after defeating Toni Storm at the historic All In London 2024 event at Wembley Stadium.
The championship victory at Wembley represented the pinnacle of Monroe’s AEW career. Now, she faces the challenge of rebuilding her legacy within WWE’s developmental system while adapting to a completely different creative environment.
International Experience Powers WWE Transition
Monroe’s wrestling foundation extends beyond her AEW success, with significant experience competing in Japan before signing her two-year AEW contract in 2023. This international background provides valuable versatility as she navigates WWE’s unique performance style and expectations.
Her Japanese wrestling experience likely contributed to the technical skills that made her a standout performer in AEW. WWE has historically valued wrestlers with diverse international experience, viewing such backgrounds as assets for global expansion efforts.
NXT Live Event Results Showcase Developmental Depth
Thursday’s Fort Pierce show featured several other notable performances that highlighted NXT’s current roster depth:
- Myles Borne defeated Drako Knox in singles action
- Fallon Henley picked up a victory over Summer Sorrell
- Jasper Troy overcame Jax Presley
- Arianna Grace defeated Chantel Monroe (unrelated to Blake Monroe despite the shared surname)
- The team of Josh Briggs and Yoshiki Inamura conquered OTM
- Brooks Jensen secured a win against Luca Crusifino
- Jacy Jayne emerged victorious over Thea Hail
What’s Next for Blake Monroe?
Monroe’s successful live event debut sets the stage for her eventual NXT television return. WWE typically uses house show performances to evaluate talent and refine character presentations before major TV storylines begin.
With her championship pedigree and proven ability to perform on wrestling’s biggest stages, Monroe represents exactly the type of established talent that can elevate NXT’s women’s division. Will her first televised match live up to the standard she set during her championship reign at Wembley, and which NXT star will step up to challenge this former world champion first?
