In a rare scene, NXT Champion Oba Femi willingly laid his title in the midst of the ring last month, signaling the tip of each his second reign as champion and overall run on the “WWE NXT” brand. Based on Femi himself, there have been solid motivations behind that move, especially because it now puts him amongst an exclusive list of former “NXT” stars.
“It feels very unique [to leave NXT without losing the title],” Femi told the “No-Contest Wrestling” podcast. “It lets me know where the corporate sort of sees me caliber-wise, like where I’m within the pecking order, which is absolutely reassuring. Very, very short list. I consider it’s me, Asuka, and The War Raiders, if I’m not mistaken. That may be a very, very short list. It is a privilege to be on that list. Not everyone gets to be on it.
“It’s for a excellent reason,” he continued, referencing his subsequent arrival to WWE’s essential roster. “I actually have to point out everybody coming as much as the essential roster now that prefer it wasn’t just done for anybody. You do not just have like all regular old call-up in your hands. You will have a Superstar here. So I consider it was done for an excellent reason, and well executed too.”
Femi initially regained the NXT Championship by besting Ricky Saints at “NXT” Deadline in early December. At “NXT” Latest Yr’s Evil, he then successfully defended it against TNA star Leon Slater, after which he formally vacated the title. In the current day, “The Ruler” appears to be exploring his options on WWE’s essential roster, having beaten down The War Raiders on “WWE Raw” and Kit Wilson on “WWE SmackDown” in recent weeks. Which specific brand will turn into his everlasting latest home has yet to be seen.
In the event you use any of the quotes in this text, please credit “No-Contest Wrestling” with a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.