Bayley Returns To NXT Live Events

Former NXT standout praises today’s women’s division

Summary

– Bayley wrestled her first NXT live event in 10 years in Buffalo, New York

– Bayley teamed with Kendal Grey and Tatum Paxley to defeat Kelani Jordan, Nikkita Lyons, and Zaria

– Bayley praised today’s NXT women’s division and said the talent is different

Bayley returned to the NXT live event circuit for the first time in 10 years.

The former WWE Women’s Champion appeared at the May 15, 2026, NXT live event at Buffalo RiverWorks in Buffalo, New York. She teamed with Kendal Grey and Tatum Paxley to defeat Kelani Jordan, Nikkita Lyons, and Zaria.

Before the show, Bayley admitted the return brought back memories from her original NXT run. She said it had been 10 years since she had worked NXT live events and called the moment nostalgic.

After the match, Bayley made it clear that today’s version of NXT is not the same one she once knew. She praised the current women’s division and said the talent is different.

Bayley also said the challenge is what excites her most about working with the current roster. Her comments showed respect for how much the brand has changed since the black-and-gold era.

Fans also asked Bayley about seeing younger wrestlers credit her as an influence. She said it reminds her why it matters to put everything into what you feel in your heart.

Bayley later named Mercedes, Asuka, and Eva Marie among her favorite opponents from her old NXT live event days. She also praised Kendal Grey after teaming up with her, calling her talent ‘annoying’.

WWE is also using main roster names on more NXT live events. Bayley, Penta, and Grayson Waller were all advertised for the weekend loop, giving younger talent a chance to work with more experienced stars.