NXT is the developmental brand for WWE, and fans get to see Superstars of tomorrow on a weekly basis. After Triple H took over WWE Creative, he and Shawn Michaels breathed new life into the brand. That being said, it seems WWE is unhappy with the crowd reactions at NXT shows.
According to a report by Dave Meltzer in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the crowds at recent NXT shows have been “down” and the company has been unhappy with the reactions from the audience.
In response to the lackluster crowds, WWE sent a notice to all of the talent and crew urging them to encourage their friends and family in the central Florida area to attend the NXT shows at the Performance Center. The hope was that this would help to bring energy and excitement to the final shows leading up to Stand & Deliver, the upcoming NXT pay-per-view event.
While the NXT tapings are free, attendees must sign up on a list in advance to secure their spot. Meltzer noted that the notice sent out by WWE was specifically for the shows taped on March 21st, which was also the go-home taping leading up to the upcoming March 28th show.
The recent crowd fatigue at NXT shows has led some to speculate that the brand needs to get back on the road for television tapings. However, the reason why they currently tape at the Performance Center is because it’s a cost-effective option for the company. With WWE looking to cut costs and maximize profits, it’s unlikely that they will change this strategy anytime soon.
The lackluster crowds at recent NXT shows have raised concerns about the brand’s future and its ability to engage and excite fans. We’ll have to see how WWE will fix up their issues with NXT in the coming weeks. Keep checking back at Ringside News for more.
What’s your take on WWE being unhappy with NXT crowd reactions? Are you worried for them? Sound off in the comments!