The landscape of WWE’s developmental brand is about to shift dramatically as three of NXT’s biggest stars prepare for their inevitable graduation to the main roster. Following championship losses and completed storylines, industry insiders are buzzing about imminent call-ups that could reshape both Raw and SmackDown’s women’s divisions.
Dave Meltzer Confirms Main Roster Moves Are Coming
Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer didn’t mince words when discussing the future of these NXT standouts on Wrestling Observer Radio. His assessment cuts straight to the heart of why these talents are ready for prime time.
“They all should be on the main roster. Vaquer is way too over to not be taken advantage of fully. Grace didn’t leave TNA to do NXT. She left to go on the main roster and she did well in NXT. And obviously, if Ricky Saints was going to stay in NXT for a long time, it’s not necessarily a step up for him. I think he wants that step up.”
Meltzer’s Friday Wrestling Observer Newsletter provided concrete updates on the situation. He confirmed that the former AEW star is “imminently” expected to join WWE’s main roster, though his specific brand destination remains under wraps.
Brand Split Destinations Already Mapped Out
According to multiple reports, WWE has already determined where these talents will land once they make the jump. Grace, known as “The Juggernaut,” is reportedly earmarked for SmackDown’s roster.
Meanwhile, “La Primera” Stephanie Vaquer appears destined for Monday Night Raw. This strategic placement suggests WWE has specific storyline plans brewing for both competitors.
The timing makes perfect sense from a creative standpoint. Both women have completed significant championship runs and feuds that established their credibility within NXT’s ecosystem.
Championship Losses Signal End of NXT Chapters
Recent events have effectively closed the book on each wrestler’s developmental tenure. At NXT Battleground, Vaquer successfully defended her NXT Women’s Championship against Grace in what many viewed as a passing-of-the-torch moment.
However, just two days later on regular NXT programming, Jacy Jayne shocked the wrestling world by dethroning Vaquer. The title change came with Fatal Influence interference, creating a clean exit strategy for the Chilean star.
That same evening, Ricky Saints dropped his NXT North American Championship to Ethan Page, removing another obstacle to his main roster ascension.
Grace’s Main Roster Contract Sets Precedent
Jordynne Grace’s situation differs significantly from typical NXT call-ups. When she signed with WWE in January after leaving TNA Wrestling, reports indicated she received a main-roster level contract from the start.
This detail supports Meltzer’s assertion that Grace never intended NXT to be a long-term destination. Her developmental stint served more as an introduction to WWE’s style and audience rather than traditional training.
Her impressive performances against established stars like Vaquer have only reinforced the decision to fast-track her promotion.
What This Means for WWE’s Women’s Divisions
The addition of Grace and Vaquer represents a significant talent infusion for both main roster brands. Grace brings her powerhouse style and TNA credibility to SmackDown’s women’s scene.
Vaquer’s international appeal and technical prowess could provide Raw with a fresh dynamic in their championship picture. Her ability to connect with audiences despite limited English has impressed WWE officials.
Neither wrestler was reportedly planned for extended NXT runs, suggesting WWE always viewed them as ready-made main roster talent rather than developmental projects.
As these three prepare to make their marks on WWE’s biggest stages, wrestling fans are left wondering: will their main roster debuts live up to the momentum they’ve built in NXT, and which current champions should be watching their backs?
