As the clock strikes midnight on January 5th, 2026, the WWE universe gears up for a new year of thrilling matches, shocking plot twists, and unforgettable moments. Tonight, WWE NXT is set to kick off its annual New Year’s Evil special, an event steeped in tradition and anticipation. This year’s installment promises to deliver some of the most electrifying action and storylines of the season.
A Fresh Start in Orlando
For the first time in months, WWE NXT is returning to the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, a venue that has seen its fair share of historic moments. Tonight’s show will take place at 8/7c on The CW Network, providing fans with front-row seats to the action. As we count down to the main event, several matches have been announced, including a highly anticipated showdown between Tatum Paxley and Izzi.
Tatum Paxley, one of the fastest-rising stars in NXT, has been on a tear since her arrival in the promotion. With her aggressive in-ring style and unapologetic attitude, Paxley has quickly become a fan favorite. Sources close to the wrestler reveal that she has been training tirelessly to take down the likes of Izzi, a formidable foe with a reputation for delivering devastating kicks.
“I’m feeling more confident than ever,” Paxley said in a recent interview. “I know Izzi’s got some tricks up her sleeve, but I’m not here to mess around. I’m here to make a statement and prove to the world that I’m a force to be reckoned with.”
The Road to Redemption
This year’s New Year’s Evil special also marks a milestone for several wrestlers, who are looking to make a comeback following a series of setbacks and failures. One such wrestler is former NXT Champion, Carmelo Hayes. After a tumultuous year, Hayes has been working behind the scenes to redeem himself, both in and out of the ring.
According to a WWE insider, Hayes has been attending therapy sessions and working with a sports psychologist to address his mental health and focus on his in-ring performance. The effort appears to be paying off, as Hayes has been seen training with renewed intensity and dedication.
“I know I haven’t been at my best lately, but I’m not one to give up easily,” Hayes said in a rare interview. “I’m taking this as an opportunity to prove to myself and everyone else that I’m still a top contender in NXT.”
A Night of Reckoning
Tonight’s show promises to be a night of reckoning for several wrestlers, including the aforementioned Hayes, Tatum Paxley, and Izzi. With storylines heating up and rivalries intensifying, fans can expect a night of non-stop action and drama.
Other matches announced for the event include a tag-team showdown between Thea Hail and Jacy Jayne against the dominant duo of Roxanne Perez and Lyra Valkyria. Additionally, a high-stakes match between Ilja Dragunov and Oro Mensah will take place, with the winner earning a spot in the upcoming NXT Championship match.
With so much at stake, tonight’s show is shaping up to be one of the most unforgettable nights in NXT history. Will Tatum Paxley emerge victorious against Izzi? Can Carmelo Hayes redeem himself against all odds? And will Thea Hail and Jacy Jayne be able to dethrone Roxanne Perez and Lyra Valkyria?
Tune in to WWE NXT New Year’s Evil tonight at 8/7c on The CW Network to find out.