The WWE Performance Center in Winter Park, Florida, played host to a pivotal episode of NXT on January 13, 2026, as the landscape of the brand underwent a seismic shift. Oba Femi’s unexpected decision to vacate the NXT Championship has sent shockwaves throughout the roster, with several top contenders vying for the vacant title. In this article, we’ll break down the key takeaways from the evening’s festivities, including a surprising address from AVA and a heated confrontation between Ricky Saints and the NXT General Manager.
AVA Addresses the Oba Femi Situation
The evening’s proceedings began with AVA taking to the mic to address the fallout from Oba Femi’s title relinquishment. The enigmatic figure expressed his thoughts on the matter, stating that the NXT Championship should be handed to him on a silver platter. AVA’s assertion was met with a mixture of boos and jeers from the live audience, who are still reeling from the sudden change in circumstances.
“AVA’s comments tonight highlighted the complexity of the situation,” said a WWE insider, who wished to remain anonymous. “While some fans may see him as a deserving contender, others view him as an opportunistic individual who’s only interested in advancing his own interests.”
Ricky Saints Demands the Title Shot
Ricky Saints, one of the top contenders for the vacant title, took umbrage with AVA’s comments and decided to address the NXT General Manager, Booker T, in the ring. Saints expressed his frustration at not being immediately granted a title shot, despite being a top contender. The exchange between Saints and Booker T was tense, with Saints ultimately being denied a title match at this time.
“This is a critical juncture for Ricky Saints,” observed a WWE analyst. “He needs to prove himself as a worthy champion, and this setback could potentially derail his momentum. However, if he can channel his frustration into a string of victories, he could emerge as a dark horse candidate for the title.”
Other Key Results
- NXT Tag Team Championship: The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) successfully defended their titles against the unlikely duo of Roderick Strong and Kyle O’Reilly. The match was an instant classic, with both teams giving their all in a thrilling contest.
- Women’s Championship: Io Shirai successfully defended her championship against the challenger, Raquel Gonzalez. Shirai’s technical grappling skills were on full display as she outmaneuvered Gonzalez at every turn.
- Singles Match: The Undisputed Era’s Adam Cole picked up a hard-fought victory over the challenger, Isaiah “Swerve” Scott. Cole’s cunning and experience ultimately proved too much for the young challenger.
Backstage Insight
According to a source close to Cody Rhodes, the American Nightmare is said to be “itching” to get back into the title picture. Rhodes, who has been sidelined with an injury, is reportedly eager to make his return to the ring and challenge for the vacant title. However, with the likes of Ricky Saints, AVA, and other top contenders vying for the championship, Rhodes faces a tough road ahead.
“Cody Rhodes is one of the most driven individuals in the WWE,” said the source. “He’s been working tirelessly to regain his strength and is ready to make a statement upon his return. Whether he’ll be able to secure a title shot remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – Cody Rhodes will not be denied for long.”
As the dust settles on the latest episode of NXT, one thing is clear: the landscape of the brand has undergone a significant shift. With multiple contenders vying for the vacant title, the next few weeks promise to be a wild and unpredictable ride. Stay tuned to see who will emerge victorious and claim the NXT Championship.