Newly crowned NXT Champion Ricky Saints will appear live on the September 30 episode of WWE NXT, his first appearance since dethroning Oba Femi at No Mercy. The segment is positioned to establish the direction for Saints’ new era, following the end of Femi’s dominant 263-day title run on September 27.
The appearance is expected to provide clarity on the new champion’s immediate plans and potentially identify the first challenger of his reign.
The show will also advance the upcoming brand warfare storyline, as NXT General Manager Ava and TNA Director of Authority Santino Marella are scheduled to announce their respective teams for the NXT vs. TNA Invasion special on October 7.
Additionally, a grudge match between Jaida Parker and Lash Legend is set for the broadcast. The bout follows Legend’s interference in Parker’s WWE Speed Title match at the No Mercy event.
While Saints begins his reign, the future of the man he defeated has become a topic of discussion. WWE Hall of Famer Booker T endorsed Oba Femi for a main roster call-up to either RAW or SmackDown, making the comments on his Hall of Fame podcast.
Booker T highlighted the quality of Femi’s performance in defeat as a key indicator of his readiness. “One thing I’ve always said about true artists, guys that pick this up and really do very, very well – your losses have gotta be better than your wins, or just as good,” Booker said. “And that dude went out and he lost just as good as he went out there to take a W any day of the week.”
The Hall of Famer also praised Femi’s in-ring generalship during the championship match, which he found impressive for a performer with only three years of experience. Femi’s nearly nine-month reign began in January 2025 after cashing in his NXT Breakout Tournament contract on Dragon Lee, establishing a heel persona inspired by the cinematic villain Thanos.
When asked directly if Femi was prepared for the main roster, Booker’s assessment was definitive. “Do I think he’s ready? Yes, I do,” he affirmed. “I think if they were to pull the trigger with him, they could do very, very well, I really do.”