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Sudden WWE Main Roster Call-Ups Leave NXT ‘Scrambling,’ Shawn Michaels Says
Shawn Michaels WWE
Photo Credit: WWE via Peacock

Shawn Michaels has admitted that unexpected WWE main roster call-ups can disrupt NXT’s creative plans, sometimes forcing the brand to abandon storylines before they reach their conclusion.

The Hall of Famer discussed the challenge during a recent appearance on Busted Open Radio, explaining why managing WWE’s developmental brand requires plenty of flexibility.

With RAW and SmackDown occasionally needing fresh talent at short notice, Michaels and his creative team have learned that even carefully planned NXT storylines can change overnight.

Shawn Michaels explains how WWE call-ups affect NXT creative

Michaels explained that experience has helped him anticipate potential promotions, although sudden injuries on the main roster can make things difficult. When an important WWE star becomes unavailable, the company might immediately turn to an NXT performer who can fill that position.

“There is a part of you, I will say, after you continue doing it for a while, you will do your best to have a feeling,” Michaels said. He added that getting information in advance helps, but unexpected decisions can leave NXT without much time to prepare.

Michaels described situations where a wrestler gets called up before completing an existing storyline, leaving the developmental brand without the opportunity to provide a proper ending or farewell match.

“And you don’t get an opportunity to finish up a storyline or something of that nature,” he explained.

To manage these situations, Michaels said NXT has become more comfortable acknowledging call-ups on television rather than leaving viewers wondering why someone has suddenly disappeared. However, having alternative creative plans ready is equally important.

“We also have to have a backup plan when it does happen,” Michaels stated.

Despite the challenges, Michaels doesn’t necessarily view the unpredictability as a negative. He admitted that his team frequently finds itself scrambling to adjust its plans, but believes that uncertainty also makes the job enjoyable.

“Look, we find ourselves scrambling a lot, but that’s the joy of it. It’s tough sometimes, but also exciting because it keeps you on your toes.”

For Michaels, developing future WWE stars means accepting that the main roster can occasionally change the entire NXT game plan. The challenge is making sure the next chapter is ready when an unexpected call comes.

The post Sudden WWE Main Roster Call-Ups Leave NXT ‘Scrambling,’ Shawn Michaels Says appeared first on Wrestlezone.

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