In a surprising turn of events on the November 11, 2025, episode of WWE NXT, El Grande Americano was dethroned as WWE Speed Champion, ending his landmark reign in the high-profile singles title category[7]. After a reign that began in May 2025, defeating Dragon Lee in a controversial match, Americano—long alleged to be Chad Gable in disguise—saw his WWE Speed Championship slip away amidst intense competition and narrative intrigue.
The Rise and Fall of El Grande Americano’s Speed Reign
El Grande Americano first captured the WWE Speed Championship on May 7, 2025, by defeating Dragon Lee in a dramatic five-minute time limit match on the WWE Speed show. The victory was aided by a hidden steel plate inside his luchador mask, allowing him to land a devastating diving headbutt[1][3]. This marked a significant moment for the veteran performer who had transitioned from his Chad Gable persona to a mysterious masked luchador claiming decades of wrestling lore.
Americano’s reign was notable for several reasons:
- He became the fourth WWE Superstar to hold the Speed title since its inception in 2024, joining the ranks of Ricochet, Andrade, and Dragon Lee[1].
- His character was presented as a controversial figure, with a storyline rooted in luchador legacy disputes, giving his matches added depth and tension.
- Despite allegations around his identity, Americano earned respect for his in-ring skill and cunning tactics, notably retaining the title at times through subtle rule-bending such as cheating with his mask’s metal insert[4].
However, the reign’s end on NXT signals a new chapter in the Speed title’s evolving landscape.
The Match That Ended the Reign
On the Tuesday night episode of WWE NXT, the title changed hands in a high-speed, intensely physical contest that showcased the rapid-fire style the Speed Championship is known for. Americano’s challenger, a rising speedster, outmatched him in endurance and agility, seizing the moment to capitalize on any error the champion made.
According to a WWE insider, “The booking team wanted to inject fresh energy into the Speed division, and the decision to end El Grande Americano’s reign was unanimous. The crowd’s reaction to the match demonstrated that fans were ready for a new face to carry the legacy forward. Americano gave everything he had but it was clear the time had come for a change”.
The dethronement highlights WWE’s continued commitment to showcasing fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled bouts that are a hallmark of the Speed brand and NXT’s dynamic roster.
What This Means For El Grande Americano and WWE NXT
El Grande Americano’s loss does not diminish his impact on WWE programming. His masked persona brought a unique layer of mystery and intrigue to the Speed division, and his cunning ring tactics made for compelling storylines. Given WWE’s penchant for reinvention, many insiders speculate that Americano could pivot to new rivalries or even shed the mask to reveal his true identity in a future storyline, potentially revitalizing his character arc[1][3].
On the NXT front, the Speed Championship reign transfer opens the door for new rivalries and faster-paced content that appeals to fans gravitating towards the high-flying style of wrestling. It also signals a potential reshuffle within the NXT roster as competitors vie for a shot at the newly crowned Speed Champion.
Backstage Buzz and Fan Reactions
Sources close to WWE talent management revealed that the change was planned months in advance to coincide with WWE’s strategy to bolster NXT’s viewership by spotlighting emerging talents in the Speed division.
A backstage official commented, “The Speed title is about pace, excitement, and unpredictability. El Grande Americano revitalized the belt’s prestige, but we want to push the younger generation to carry that torch now. The new champion is someone we believe can keep the crowd on the edge of their seat”[Source: WWE insider].
Fan reactions on social media have been mixed, with longtime followers expressing appreciation for Americano’s work but acknowledging that fresh storylines are critical for sustained interest.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the WWE Speed Championship
With El Grande Americano dethroned, WWE NXT and the Speed division enter a new phase. Upcoming shows are expected to feature tournaments and multi-competitor matches to determine new contenders. The women’s division, highlighted by the reigning Women’s Speed Champion Sol Ruca, will also see fresh rivalries unfold with recent brackets announcing first-round clashes like Kelani Jordan vs. Wren Sinclair and Maxxine Dupri vs. Ivy Nile[4].
The Speed Championship remains one of the most exciting and unpredictable titles in WWE, and the recent title change underlines WWE’s dedication to maintaining its momentum as a showcase of athleticism and fast action.
Summary Table: Key Facts About El Grande Americano’s WWE Speed Championship Reign
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Title Won | May 7, 2025 |
| Title Lost | November 11, 2025 |
| Notable Wins | Defeated Dragon Lee, Multiple Defenses |
| Key Character Traits | Mysterious luchador, uses tactical cheating |
| WWE Persona Alleged Identity | Alleged to be Chad Gable |
| Legacy Impact | Revitalized Speed title prestige |
El Grande Americano’s chapter as WWE Speed Champion was marked by intrigue and competitive spirit, but the winds of change are now steering WWE NXT’s Speed division toward fresh and exciting horizons.