WWE apparently has more than just Shawn Michaels and AJ Styles to figure out when it comes to NXT in 2027. A new update suggests the company is planning additional changes behind the scenes, and Bayley and CM Punk could both end up playing bigger roles.
According to Bryan Alvarez of Wrestling Observer, WWE is expected to make more changes to NXT’s office structure next year. Bayley is one name who could become involved depending on what she wants to do with her career, while Punk could also get more input into what happens with the developmental brand. And that’s not all. WWE’s ID program is apparently in line for some changes of its own in early 2027.
“As of right now, it looks like Shawn Michaels replacing Bruce Prichard and AJ Styles getting his NXT role is the most likely scenario. It is believed there will be other NXT office changes in 2027 as well. Depending on what she wants to do with her career, Bayley could very well end up involved. Punk may also have more input. It is also believed the ID program will get ‘a fresh coat of paint’ in early 2027 as well.”
The Bayley part is particularly interesting because Alvarez made it clear that her potential involvement depends on what she wants to do next. There’s no indication that she’s been offered a specific backstage job, but her name is apparently being discussed as part of NXT’s future.
Punk’s situation is a little different. Rather than taking over a particular position, the expectation is that he could simply have more influence over the brand. Exactly what that would involve hasn’t been established.
Meanwhile, the mention of WWE’s ID program getting a fresh coat of paint suggests changes could also be coming to how the company works with independent wrestling talent. Alvarez didn’t specify what those adjustments would look like.
The latest information comes as WWE prepares for another major transition. Shawn Michaels is expected to replace Bruce Prichard as Executive Director of Creative Writing & Talent following WrestleMania 43 in April 2027, while AJ Styles is emerging as the likely person to assume Michaels’ NXT responsibilities.
An earlier update indicated that people within WWE’s Performance Center were already expecting Styles to become more involved with NXT once Michaels moves into his new position. But Alvarez’s latest comments make it clear that WWE’s plans may go well beyond those two positions. Between possible new responsibilities for Bayley and Punk, additional office changes, and adjustments to the ID program, the company could be making several changes to its developmental operation next year.
Nothing involving Bayley or Punk has been officially confirmed, and their potential responsibilities remain unclear. Still, it appears WWE has more changes in mind for NXT than simply replacing Michaels, with 2027 shaping up to be an important year for the brand.
Do you think Bayley and CM Punk should have bigger roles in NXT, and what changes would you like to see WWE make to the brand in 2027? Let us know what you think in the comments below.
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