WWE gave fans a big surprise on the April 28, 2026, episode of WWE NXT when former NJPW star EVIL made his debut. It wasn’t just a quiet entry. He showed up in a dramatic “lights out” moment and came face-to-face with NXT Champion Tony D’Angelo right in the ring.
The segment started with D’Angelo addressing the crowd. He said he has been the most consistent force in NXT, even with all the recent roster changes. He also talked about the mysterious box from last week, saying he saw it as a warning, not a gift.
Then, the arena suddenly went dark. When the lights came back in blue and purple shades, a shadowy figure appeared and slowly walked to the ring. That figure turned out to be EVIL, confirming all the rumors about his WWE debut.
EVIL makes WWE NXT debut and confronts Tony D’Angelo
EVIL stepped into the ring and stood silently across from D’Angelo. The crowd chanted his name as the commentators talked about his past achievements. Without saying a word, EVIL handed D’Angelo a rolled piece of cloth tied up. When D’Angelo opened it, it showed the same symbol from last week’s mystery box.
The message was sent. EVIL is coming for the title.
But things didn’t stop there. As EVIL left the ring, Tavion Heights attacked D’Angelo from behind and made his own statement. Then, another unknown person hit a moonsault, leaving D’Angelo completely laid out.
EVIL’s debut is even more interesting because, until now, it wasn’t clear where he would go in WWE. His sudden appearance here suggests WWE has made a decision, or at least wants to test him in NXT first.
There is also talk about whether he will keep the name EVIL in WWE. For now, the commentators mentioned his original name.
During his long run in NJPW, EVIL built a strong career. At Dominion 2020, he defeated Tetsuya Naito to become a double champion, holding both major titles. He later became NJPW’s first-ever triple champion and also won the New Japan Cup and several tag titles.
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