WWE NXT reveals locations for first two CW episodes, CM Punk & Randy Orton to appear
NXT is going on the road to kick off its move to The CW.
Today, Shawn Michaels revealed on social media that the October 1 premiere episode of NXT on the network will air live from Chicago’s Allstate Arena. He also announced the brand will head to St. Louis the following week, although he did not mention a venue.
“The launch on CW happens in Chicago, Illinois, Allstate Arena, October 1. What’s better than one week on the road with NXT? Two weeks on the road. October 8, St. Louis, get ready because we’re coming your way. That’s right, two weeks in a row, NXT, the CW launch, we’re coming your way. Everybody get ready. NXT has been on fire the last year but now, NXT on the CW, it’s going to be a whole different animal.”
WWE’s press release announcing the live events also mentions “special appearances” from CM Punk and Randy Orton on the shows from Chicago and St. Louis respectively.
“Additionally, the live arena shows will feature special appearances by WWE Superstar CM Punk in Chicago and WWE Superstar Randy Orton in St. Louis.”
On Saturday, The CW released its first ad for NXT. The 30-second spot featured several members of the NXT roster including Trick Williams, Roxanne Perez, Kelani Jordan, and more.
Last November, WWE announced a five-year deal with The CW to bring NXT to the network. TKO head Ari Emanuel would later tell investors the deal is a 70 percent increase from the previous one with NBCUniversal, which was estimated at between $20-$25 million annually.