Grayson Waller returned to WWE NXT during the July 28 episode, delivering a contentious shoot-style promo that targeted Austin Theory, The New Day, and roster addition Cruz Montana, also known as Mike Santana, according to reporting on the event. Waller has been off the main roster since Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods chose to leave WWE, though he has continued working house shows across both brands.
Backstage Heat and Management Cut-Off
Management quickly intervened during Waller’s live segment. According to show reports, WWE officials cut off Waller’s microphone and took the segment off the broadcast feed entirely after he began taking direct aim at rival talent and outside promotions. As of now, WWE has not confirmed any long-term creative direction for Waller’s return to the brand.
CM Punk Reacts to TNA Wrestling Jab
The promo drew immediate attention from outside the immediate NXT locker room, most notably from CM Punk. According to social media activity, Punk shared a clip of the segment on his Instagram stories, adding the caption, “Frustration distilled and funneled into a bullet aimed at the competition.”
The reaction followed remarks Waller directed at TNA Wrestling during his return. “It ain’t 2005, lad. Being the top guy in TNA is like being the best basketball player at the local YMCA. I’m not impressed,” Waller stated during the broadcast.
Did You Know? Grayson Waller confirmed his on-screen comeback shortly after the show concluded by posting a simple status update to his social media channels reading, “I’m back.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Grayson Waller return to WWE NXT?
Grayson Waller returned during the July 28 episode of WWE NXT, opening the show with an unscripted-feeling promo.
Why did WWE management cut off Waller’s promo?
WWE officials cut the microphone and feed after Waller took direct verbal shots at Austin Theory, The New Day, Cruz Montana, and TNA Wrestling.
How did CM Punk respond to the segment?
CM Punk posted a clip of the promo on his Instagram stories, characterizing it as frustration directed at the competition.
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