Big news coming out of Florida via Stamford, CT today: WWE has released seven NXT talents. Those names are: Derrick Bateman, Briley Pierce, Sakamoto, “Showtime” Percy Watson, Brandon Traven and Divas Audrey Marie & Anya. In this special, we'll look back on the WWE careers (or lack thereof) of these seven, and see if there's ever a chance they might one day return.
SUPERSTARS:
Brandon Traven: I'll admit I know the least about Brandon Traven out of the names on this list. I know he was trained by legend Harley Race. I know he competed in midwest indies and signed last year... and that's about it. This name never leaped off the roster as a “wow, THIS GUY is gonna be a big deal” type of name, so I doubt there's a chance he'll ever be back, 10% at best.
Sakamoto: Poor poor Sakamoto. Everyone will only remember him as the guy who Lord Tensai beat the crap out of for no reason every week. The side that he never got to show was the side that was trained by Taka Michinoku. Yeah, the other guy from Kaientai. INDEED. Anyways, Sakamoto CAN work in the ring, but I guess WWE saw him as a manager only. 30% chance he'll back... if Tensai needs a manager.
Briley Pierce: Hmm, this guy looks like someone we know... more specifically someone I've written about recently... who could it be... wait... DOLPH ZIGGLER?!?!? Yep, apparently the big boys at Titan Towers don't feel baby bro has what it takes. I'd like to vehemently disagree. Briley has the genes of one of the best move sellers in HISTORY somewhere in there, and he probably just needs to get a little more seasoned. Don't forget, it took Dolph nearly 7 years. Chances of re-signing: 55%
“Showtime” Percy Watson: This is where I start to get bummed out. I'm not a major Watson fan, but I always thought he had gobs of potential, the right body type and a decent-good promo skill. There were several times where it was rumored that Percy would finally get the call up to the main roster, and it just never happened. WWE should be kicking themselves for not only releasing Showtime, but never giving him a chance in the first place. I think Percy will be back sooner rather than later, 75% chance of re-signing.
Derrick Bateman: As Husky Harris once said about Derrick Bateman: “More like Derrick IDIOT!” But the idiot was what everyone who saw him kinda liked. Bateman debuted on NXT, being paired up with pro mentor Daniel Bryan. Some of those segments were among the brightest moments in the old NXT's history. Bateman was also very good in the ring. So why was he never used? Your guess is as good as mine. Either way, Derrick Bateman should go enjoy himself on the indies for a bit. It'll remind WWE what a valuable talent they wasted. 95% chance of re-signing.
DIVAS:
Anya: Not much to say here. She's 6'1, she's russian, she's a legitimate kickboxer and martial artist. She's been out of action last summer with a broken arm. Hmm, a diva who could actually fight? NAH. CUT HER. 5% chance of re-signing.
Audrey Marie: This is a bigger deal than you might think. Audrey Marie has been in developmental since 2011, and was one of the better known female names on the farm. Her release gives me questions like: “Will Paige ever make it up to the main roster?” and “I love AJ Lee, but are you telling me she's REALLY the best wrestler they have?” These questions both enrage and confuse me, and I think Audrey Marie feels a little bit of the same. I think if/when the divas division struggles yet again, we'll hear about Audrey being brought back. 80% chance of re-signing.
Overall, it's not the end for the NXT 7. It's just... okay let's face it, some of their careers are on a downswing from here.