The wrestling world is buzzing about Blake Monroe’s explosive entrance into WWE NXT, and veteran star Tommy Dreamer isn’t holding back his thoughts. The former hardcore legend delivered high praise for the presentation of wrestling’s hottest free agent while raising eyebrows about the instant championship spotlight.
From AEW Champion to NXT Sensation
Wrestling fans know Blake Monroe better as Mariah May, the British superstar who captured hearts and gold in AEW. Her shocking betrayal of mentor Toni Storm after claiming the Women’s Owen Hart Cup became one of summer’s most talked-about moments. The blood-soaked heel turn that crowned her AEW Women’s World Champion set the stage for her eventual WWE arrival.
Monroe wasted no time making waves on the black and gold brand. Her debut confrontation with NXT Women’s Champion Jacy Jayne sent a clear message about her championship ambitions.
Dreamer’s Vintage Approval
Speaking on “Busted Open After Dark,” Tommy Dreamer couldn’t contain his enthusiasm for Monroe’s creative presentation. The ECW legend found himself transported back to television’s golden age through WWE’s storytelling approach.
“They come up with an awesome vignette last week which, man, really, really hit. I thought it was a hit on social media, it was a hit for me too. It reminded me of ‘Bewitched,’ it reminded me of ‘The Glamour.’ I love what they’re doing with all that, kind of a throwback to like the ’70s and ’80s sitcoms.”
The nostalgic television references struck a chord with the veteran performer. Dreamer’s praise extended beyond just the vignettes to Monroe’s entire contract signing segment on NXT programming.
Star Treatment Creates Roster Tension
While applauding Monroe’s big-league presentation, Dreamer identified a potential powder keg within NXT’s women’s division. The instant championship program represents both opportunity and controversy for the developmental brand.
Dreamer recognizes the double-edged sword of featuring Monroe so prominently. Her immediate elevation into title contention showcases WWE’s investment while potentially frustrating homegrown talent who’ve climbed NXT’s ranks.
“You have so many top women or women who were primed and ready to hold that title and then here comes Blake Monroe; she seems to get elevated right into the mix, why? Because of the presentation. Again, it’s a big free agent signing, and this isn’t just in wrestling… it’s in all sports.”
The Free Agent Reality Check
Dreamer’s analysis touches on modern wrestling’s harsh reality. Star power and proven track records often trump developmental territory dues-paying. Monroe’s AEW championship credentials automatically place her in NXT’s upper tier, regardless of tenure.
This phenomenon mirrors professional sports, where marquee signings receive immediate opportunities over seasoned veterans. The business logic makes sense, but locker room dynamics can suffer when established performers watch newcomers leap-frog into premium positions.
Building Tomorrow’s Main Event Scene
Monroe’s NXT arrival signals WWE’s commitment to strengthening their women’s division across all brands. Her combination of in-ring ability, character work, and championship experience makes her an invaluable addition to an already talent-rich roster.
The creative team’s retro-inspired presentation demonstrates their confidence in Monroe’s star potential. Whether she can navigate the political waters of instant success while delivering championship-caliber performances remains the ultimate test. Will Monroe’s fast-track push create the next breakout star, or will NXT’s locker room dynamics prove more challenging than any opponent she’s faced?
