In a bizarre turn of events, WWE has seemingly contradicted its own rules by allowing Shayna Baszler, a top RAW Superstar, to make an appearance on the latest edition of NXT. This move has raised eyebrows among fans and critics alike, as it blatantly disregards the company’s own brand split exclusivity rules.
The Queen of Spades, who was retained by Monday Night RAW during the 2024 Draft, is currently embroiled in a storyline with Lola Vice on NXT. Baszler is set to face Vice in an NXT Underground Match at NXT Battleground 2024, which has left many wondering why the company is allowing a RAW-exclusive Superstar to participate in a developmental brand storyline.
This blunder is even more glaring considering WWE’s emphasis on the importance of the brand split and the recent 2024 Draft. The company had touted the Draft as a way to refresh its rosters and create new rivalries, but Baszler’s appearance on NXT has essentially nullified the entire concept.
WWE’s failure to wrap up Baszler’s storyline on NXT, which began on Week One of NXT Spring Breakin’ 2024, is a clear example of the company’s inconsistency. Instead of providing closure, WWE has opted to add a new layer to the storyline, further muddying the waters.
Meanwhile, WWE has teased a feud between Baszler and returning Superstar Sonya Deville on Monday Night RAW. The two had a tense backstage encounter, which has set the stage for a potential rivalry. However, with Baszler still involved on NXT, it remains to be seen how long the former WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion will continue to do double duty on both brands.
This oversight has sparked questions about WWE’s creative direction and its commitment to its own rules. As the WWE Universe looks forward to the progression of Baszler’s storyline on RAW, one can’t help but wonder if the company will eventually address this glaring inconsistency or continue to ignore its own brand split exclusivity rules.
