
WWE Announces Exclusive Broadcast Rights Deal For NXT Premium Live Events
WWE has announced an exclusive broadcast rights deal with The CW Network for NXT Premium Live Events. The CW Network is already the home of NXT television programming.
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WWE has announced an exclusive broadcast rights deal with The CW Network for NXT Premium Live Events. The CW Network is already the home of NXT television programming.

Enzo Amore believes John Cena would be "stupid not to run" for U.S. President, citing Cena's popularity, global presence, and experience working with people from other nations during his WWE career. Speaking on Inside the Ring on April 28, 2026, Amore argued that Cena's international exposure, ability to speak Chinese, and well-rounded personality make him a strong potential candidate who could realistically make a political run after his Hollywood career. Amore's comments contrast with Cena's previous statements from July 2025 where he made clear he has zero interest in running for office and prefers to keep politics fictional.

Charlie, formerly known as Dakota Kai, has commented on the possibility of returning to WWE in the future. She stated that she would love to focus on herself right now and do what's best for her.

Nick Hogan addressed speculation about his wrestling career plans during an appearance on the 83 Weeks podcast on April 27, 2026, stating "if the opportunity ever presents itself, I would absolutely welcome that." The son of Hulk Hogan was spotted at WWE's Performance Center earlier this year and has been training with NWA's Bryan Idol, though no official contract or match announcements have been made.

Dutch Mantell responded to Ric Flair's recent comments on The Ariel Helwani Show by saying "I think he's lost his mind" and criticizing Flair's belief that WWE should roll out a red carpet for him whenever he appears on their show. Mantell suggested that Flair is upset about not being invited to WrestleMania and gets bothered when anyone questions his legacy, adding that while Flair drew money and won titles 16 times, "if you've watched one Flair match, you've watched them all."

WWE NXT Premium Live Events are moving to The CW as part of a new long-term deal that includes a 20-show package spread across several years. The agreement begins with this summer's Great American Bash and marks the first time NXT Premium Live Events will air on broadcast television, moving away from streaming-only distribution. This expansion builds on NXT's existing weekly programming partnership with The CW and represents a shift from the brand's previous move to YouTube for events like Stand & Deliver.

The CW Network has officially acquired the rights to broadcast WWE NXT premium live events going forward. This marks a new broadcasting partnership for WWE's developmental brand's special events.

According to a Wrestling Observer Radio report by Dave Meltzer, Kairi Sane's WWE release may have been influenced by Sane herself indicating she wanted to move back to Japan, rather than being a strictly business-driven decision by WWE. Meltzer noted the unusual timing of the release occurring while Sane was still involved in a storyline and stated that keeping her to finish the program would not have been a financial issue for the company. WWE reportedly has no plans to reverse the release despite fan campaigns, with WrestleVotes indicating the company is waiting for the "#WeWantKairi" movement to lose momentum.

Dakota Kai addressed fan speculation about her retirement following her WWE release in May 2025, stating during an April 28, 2026 interview with Chris Van Vliet that she never actually retired despite what people claimed on social media. Kai returned to wrestling on March 8, 2026 at Wrestle Queendom 8 after taking a year off, clarifying that the break was never meant to be permanent and that she wouldn't leave fans without explanation if she were to actually retire.

Triple H promoted the upcoming IYO SKY vs. Asuka match at WWE Backlash on Twitter, calling them "two of the best" and promising fans would "see something special." Fans immediately flooded the replies with "#WeWantKairi" messages demanding Kairi Sane's return and criticizing WWE for cutting her before completing the storyline. During the same episode of WWE Raw, fans in the arena chanted "We Want Kairi" during IYO SKY's match with Becky Lynch, showing the frustration extends beyond social media.

Dakota Kai addressed her potential WWE return during an interview with Chris Van Vliet on April 28, 2026, stating she wouldn't want to burn bridges but isn't in a hurry to return to the company. She explained that she's at a point in her career where she wants to make intentional decisions rather than signing contracts just for the sake of it, and expressed a desire to focus on herself and doing what's best for her right now.

WWE NXT's April 28, 2026 episode will feature Myles Borne defending the North American Championship against Saquon Shugars, with Lizzy Rain making her official NXT television debut. The show will also include tag team action between BirthRight and E.K. Prosper & Dorian Van Dux, a singles match between Shiloh Hill and Ricky Saints, and the revelation of Tony D'Angelo's next challenger for the NXT Championship.