(NEXSTAR) — WWE NXT will make its debut on the CW Network this Tuesday, October 1st, live from the Allstate Arena in Chicago. The highly anticipated event will showcase the next generation of WWE superstars, marking a new era for NXT as it transitions to its new television home.
We had a chance to visit WWE’s Performance Center, NXT’s home base in Orlando, Florida, where its athletes train and prepare to become superstars. During the visit, we sat down with Tank Ledger, one of the rising stars in NXT, who highlighted the significance of the Chicago setting for the debut.
“Chicago is often called the second city, a city of underdogs,” Ledger said. “When you look at NXT, it’s a bunch of hungry young men and women with something to prove, and we’re going to show it October 1st on the CW.”
“Chicago is going to feel the Latina heat,” added Lola Vice, another standout competitor. “A lot of stars from the main roster are coming down to help us promote this new premiere, and it’s going to be huge.”
One of those stars is former world champion CM Punk. He’ll be in the middle of the show’s main event serving as the special guest referee for Ethan Page and Trick Williams’ NXT Championship battle.
“I’m gonna get my title back. He took it unjustly from me and I want that,” said Williams.
“I think the brand and this championship deserve someone with my experience, poise, and professionalism,” Page told us. “I had to save this company and make sure no one like Trick tarnishes what WWE stands for.”
The event marks a significant moment for WWE NXT as it expands its reach to a broader audience on the CW Network. The show will also feature what’s sure to be an incredible NXT Women’s Championship bout pitting champ Roxanne Perez against newcomer Giulia.
The show kicks off at 8 p.m. ET/7 p.m. CT on October 1st.