WWE NXT delivered an electrifying live event on September 5, 2025, at the Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium in Spartanburg, South Carolina, highlighted by surprising appearances from several main roster superstars. Fans witnessed intense championship action, including Oba Femi’s successful title defense and notable showings from Raw talents like Grayson Waller and Rusev.
Oba Femi Holds Firm Against Grayson Waller in NXT Title Main Event
The evening’s main event featured NXT Champion Oba Femi defending his title against Monday Night Raw’s Grayson Waller in a high-stakes match that captivated the Spartanburg crowd. Femi retained the championship, showcasing his dominance and skill within NXT while proving he can stand tall against established main roster competitors[4][1].
A WWE insider shared, “The company is clearly using this crossover to elevate NXT’s profile and test Oba Femi against more recognized opponents. It’s a strategic move to blend the brands and build excitement among fans.”
Main Roster Stars Add Star Power
Beyond the main event, Raw’s Rusev made a surprise appearance, facing off against Ricky Saints in a singles match. Despite his veteran status, Rusev was bested by Saints, underlining NXT’s growing depth and competitiveness. Additionally, former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Raquel Rodriguez and Roxanne Perez teamed up to defeat Sol Ruca and Zaria, adding further credibility to the NXT women’s division[4][3].
The presence of these main roster names injected significant star power into the event, delighting attendees and emphasizing WWE’s commitment to cross-brand collaboration.
Championship Action Dominates the Card
The live event was laden with multiple title bouts. In the opening match, Trick Williams successfully defended his TNA World Championship against Shiloh Hill, starting the night on a high note and energizing the crowd[4][3].
The newly crowned NXT Tag Team Champions, DarkState (Dion Lennox and Osiris Griffin), also retained their titles in a triple threat match against both the LWO duo and former champions Hank Walker and Tank Ledger, cementing their status atop the tag division[4][3].
Meanwhile, the NXT North American Championship match ended controversially when Dragon Lee defeated champion Ethan Page via disqualification, developing a potential new storyline heading into NXT’s upcoming programs[4][3].
Fans React to NXT’s Return to Spartanburg
This event marked WWE’s first live show in Spartanburg since 2019, reigniting local enthusiasm for NXT. Ticket sales were brisk, and the mix of NXT rising stars with surprising main roster talent created a dynamic atmosphere praised by attendees.
One fan remarked, “Seeing Oba Femi go toe-to-toe with Grayson Waller was an amazing experience. Plus, Rusev showing up was a real surprise! It made the event feel special and unpredictable.” According to event organizer sources, WWE plans to continue leveraging such surprise appearances to boost NXT’s live show attendance and overall viewership[2].
Strategic Impact of Cross-Brand Appearances
Backstage sources indicate that WWE is deliberately integrating main roster talent into NXT live events as part of a broader strategy to blur the lines between brands. This crossover appeal aims to:
- Increase NXT’s visibility and fan engagement
- Provide developmental talent with exposure to seasoned performers
- Generate buzz for NXT’s television and digital content
A WWE creative team member noted, “Bringing stars from Raw and other brands into NXT shows creates an exciting environment for talent and fans alike. It builds momentum and fresh matchups that keep the product evolving.”
Full Highlights and Match Results from Spartanburg
- TNA Championship: Trick Williams (c) def. Shiloh Hill
- Women’s Tag: Raquel Rodriguez & Roxanne Perez def. Sol Ruca & Zaria
- Singles Match: Ricky Saints def. Rusev
- NXT Tag Team Championship: DarkState (Dion Lennox & Osiris Griffin) (c) def. LWO & Hank Walker & Tank Ledger (triple threat)
- NXT North American Championship: Dragon Lee def. Ethan Page via DQ
- NXT Championship: Oba Femi (c) def. Grayson Waller[4][3][1]
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for NXT?
This successful event in Spartanburg sets the stage for NXT’s continued expansion across the Southeastern U.S. WWE announced additional live shows in North Charleston and Augusta, promising more cross-brand excitement in the coming days[2]. Given the positive fan reception and strong performances, NXT appears poised for a dynamic fall season.
Insider Take on NXT’s Future
A WWE source close to talent development revealed, “NXT is entering a period of growth where the brand isn’t just a developmental stop but a vibrant, competitive part of WWE’s ecosystem. Expect to see more fresh faces challenge veterans and main roster stars making surprise appearances to raise the stakes.”
The Spartanburg NXT live event was a pivotal moment showcasing WWE’s evolving brand strategy through exciting matches, title defenses, and star-studded surprises. As the company continues to blend talent across its platforms, fans can anticipate an increasingly unpredictable and compelling NXT product.