WWE’s ‘Forbidden Door’ Strategy Heats Up with Cross-Promotion Challenges at Bloodsport XII and NXT Deadline

Published
WWE NXT (Via WWE/Twitter)

The WWE universe has witnessed a significant shift in the company’s approach to inter-promotional bookings, with the introduction of the “Forbidden Door” concept. This innovative strategy has allowed WWE Superstars to venture into rival promotions, leading to exciting crossover appearances. The latest development in this saga has seen a WWE star issue a challenge to a top talent from a rival promotion, setting the stage for a highly anticipated match.

The events unfolded over the weekend at Josh Barnett’s Bloodsport XII, where WWE NXT Superstars participated in the event alongside talents from AEW, ROH, and TNA. The No Quarter Catch Crew, comprising Charlie Dempsey, Myles Borne, and Tavion Heights, was in action, with Dempsey emerging victorious in a non-title match against Tracy Williams. The crowd witnessed a thrilling eight-minute TKO loss for Borne at the hands of Royce Isaacs, with Dempsey providing ringside support.

Isaacs, who previously defeated Dempsey at Bloodsport XI, took to social media to issue a challenge to NQCC’s other male stablemate, Tavion Heights. The match would take place at a future Bloodsport card, with Isaacs boasting a 2-0 record against the crew. In a bold move, Isaacs specifically mentioned that he has always wanted to wrestle an Olympic wrestler, targeting Heights’ athletic background.

WWE Arena (Via WWE/Twitter)

The Olympic wrestler, known for his impressive skills in the ring, responded swiftly, issuing a six-word warning to Isaacs. “Be careful what you wish for,” Tavion Heights wrote, seemingly setting up a match for next Tuesday’s NXT. This development has sparked intense interest among fans, with many speculating about the potential matchup.

The involvement of the No Quarter Catch Crew in crossover promotions is no surprise, given their extensive experience in rival promotions. Dempsey, Borne, and Heights have already made appearances for AJPW, ROW, TNA, GCW, and Pro Wrestling NOAH, demonstrating their versatility and adaptability.

As the WWE universe gears up for NXT Deadline, the company has announced an updated lineup for the event. The show will feature a highly anticipated NXT Championship match between Trick Williams and Ridge Holland, as well as a NXT Tag Team Championship match between Axiom and Nathan Frazer and the winners of the Last Chance Battle Royal.

The Iron Survivor Challenges, which will determine the winners of future NXT Championship matches, are also drawing significant attention. The men’s challenge will see Wes Lee, Nathan Frazer, Je’Von Evans, Ethan Page, and one additional superstar compete, while the women’s challenge will feature Sol Ruca, Zaria, Stephanie Vaquer, Giulia, and one additional talent.

The upcoming NXT event promises to be an action-packed spectacle, with several intriguing match-ups and storylines unfolding. As the wrestling world continues to evolve, it is clear that WWE’s innovative approach to crossover bookings has paved the way for exciting new interactions between Superstars from different promotions.

By Kieran Fisher

Kieran Fisher is an avid follower of Britain's indie wrestling scene, attending PROGRESS, Rev Pro, and many Scottish Wrestling Entertainment events. He has interviewed notable figures like Tommy Dreamer and Rand Borden. Kieran's wrestling Mount Rushmore includes Misawa, Funk, Sting, and Haku, with Bryan Danielson near the top. You can reach out to him at [email protected].