EVIL, the former New Japan star, made a surprise NXT debut on April 28 and could become the veteran leader the brand needs right now.
Who is EVIL?
EVIL is the ring name of Takaai Watanabe. He began his pro wrestling career in New Japan in 2011 at age 24. Over the years he became one of NJPW’s top stars. His list of titles includes a one-time IWGP Heavyweight Championship reign, Intercontinental gold, two tag team title runs, and four reigns as NEVER Openweight Champion.
At 39 years old, EVIL is a veteran with a strong character. He led factions like the House of Torture and was part of groups such as Los Ingobernables de Japon and the Bullet Club. That history gives him a ready-made personality for WWE’s sports entertainment style.
How he debuted on NXT
On the April 28 episode of NXT, champion Tony D’Angelo was cutting a promo about a mysterious box delivered the week before. The lights went out and a hooded figure appeared. When the hood came down, it was EVIL standing across the ring from D’Angelo.
Reports say EVIL asked to start in NXT rather than go straight to Raw or SmackDown. That choice was reported by Bodyslam and shows a cautious plan: learn the American style and build a connection with a more devoted, wrestling-focused audience first.
Why NXT needs someone like EVIL
NXT has lost several key names recently, with stars moving to the main roster or leaving the brand. Big contributors such as Ethan Page, Joe Hendry, Ricky Saints, and others are no longer weekly fixtures. That leaves a gap in veteran leadership and star power on Tuesday nights.
Bringing in a seasoned international star like EVIL gives NXT an instant focal point. In front of NXT’s smaller but passionate crowd, he can be easier to appreciate than on Raw or SmackDown where casual viewers may not know his work. The plan is to let him lead the brand now so that when he does move up he arrives as an established star.
What he brings and what could happen next
EVIL offers a mix of strong wrestling and a clearly defined character. He is known for intense presentations and faction work, skills WWE values. If NXT bookers use him well, he could play a role similar to what Shinsuke Nakamura did for NXT years ago: a veteran who helped raise the profile of the show.
His signing and smart placement in NXT also avoid the risk faced by some international stars who arrive on the main roster and lose momentum. For now, EVIL gives NXT a veteran anchor while young stars continue to develop. UFCcoverage will watch how he is booked and how quickly he connects with the WWE audience.
