Online backlash leads to removal of controversial NXT performance clip
Summary
– WWE removed Ricky Saints’ concert segment from NXT social media after backlash
– Reports state the segment drew heavy negative reactions from fans online
– Sources say the idea was not Saints’ pitch as he avoids comparisons to The Rock
Ricky Saints found himself at the center of a discussion after a recent segment from WWE NXT was quietly removed from the company’s official social media channels.
The moment aired during the March 3 episode of NXT, where Saints performed a musical set billed as “The Ricky Saints Absolute Experience.” The segment mirrored the style of entertainment-based promos previously used by performers such as Joe Hendry and The Rock.
The clip initially gained attention online once WWE posted it across social platforms. Reaction from viewers quickly turned negative, prompting the company to pull the video shortly after it began circulating.
Fightful Select later reported that the removal came directly after the wave of criticism. Sources close to the NXT brand indicated that the concept for the segment was not pitched by Saints himself.
Reports also noted that Saints has been working to distance his character from elements that could lead to comparisons with The Rock. That direction reportedly played a role in how the situation was handled internally.
Backstage reaction to the segment was described as lukewarm, though there were no major concerns regarding Saints or Joe Hendry following the incident.
Both performers moved forward toward NXT Vengeance Day on March 7, where Hendry successfully defended the NXT Championship against Saints.
