Here’s your WWE Rumor Roundup for Thursday, December 18, 2025, featuring the latest backstage news and speculation from around the wrestling world.
No NXT Call-Ups Despite SNME Showcase
Despite widespread online speculation, WWE has NOT officially called up any NXT talent following Saturday Night’s Main Event. Bryan Alvarez addressed the rumors directly, stating “at this point, nobody has been called up.”
The rumored names included Oba Femi, Sol Ruca, Je’Von Evans, Leon Slater, and Joe Hendry, all of whom impressed at the December 13 event. Oba Femi faced Cody Rhodes in a champion vs. champion match that ended in a no-contest due to Drew McIntyre interference.
NXT Implementing New Backstage Policy After Title Botch
WWE is implementing major policy changes following Thea Hail’s accidental title win over Blake Monroe. Per Fightful Select, talent booked for tapings will now be required to stay until the end of filming, even if their segments are completed early. The botched finish caused creative chaos since WWE had already pre-taped segments with Monroe as champion through the holiday season.
Thea Hail vs. Blake Monroe Rematch Expected at New Year’s Evil
Following the unplanned title change, a rematch between Thea Hail and Blake Monroe is already being discussed internally. Multiple sources expect the bout to take place at NXT New Year’s Evil on January 6, though nothing has been officially confirmed. WWE appears to be leaning into the result for now, with the backstage confrontation segment between the two added on short notice.
Royal Rumble 2026 Start Time Finalized
WWE has officially settled on a 2 PM ET start time for the 2026 Royal Rumble in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. WrestleVotes reported there was “internal back and forth” about when the show should air before landing on the afternoon slot. This translates to a 10 PM local start time in Saudi Arabia—slightly later than recent Saudi PLEs which typically started at 1 PM ET.
Raquel Rodriguez Placed in Concussion Protocol
Raquel Rodriguez has been placed in WWE’s concussion protocol following a scary spot on Monday’s RAW. During her Women’s World Championship match against Stephanie Vaquer, Nikki Bella interfered and threw Rodriguez head-first into the steel steps, leaving a visible “goose egg” on her forehead. Bryan Alvarez noted on Wrestling Observer Live that being placed in protocol doesn’t necessarily mean she has a concussion—it’s a standard precautionary measure for head injuries.
Ric Flair Weighs In On Cena vs. Sting Retirement Outcomes
Ric Flair has offered his take on why Sting won his retirement match while John Cena lost his. The Nature Boy stated that Sting won because there’s “no one at AEW worth putting over.” Whether fans agree with his assessment or not, it’s sparked debate across social media about how wrestling legends should go out.
WWE Officials Impressed by NXT Talent at SNME
WWE reportedly came away very encouraged by the NXT talent showcased at Saturday Night’s Main Event, with multiple performers leaving a strong impression on company officials. While no call-ups have been made yet, the future looks bright for the developmental stars who shared the stage with legends like John Cena. Leon Slater has already earned an NXT Championship match against Oba Femi at New Year’s Evil after winning a Fatal 4-Way this week.