Just hours before WWE NXT goes live, the brand confirmed that new NXT Champion Joe Hendry will open the February 10, 2026 episode—and fans are already fired up.
WWE took to Twitter and announced that Hendry will kick off the show at 8 PM ET on The CW Network, marking his first appearance as champion since winning the title last week.
“Say his name and he appears! New NXT Champion @joehendry will get his championship reign started when he KICKS OFF #WWENXT tonight!”
The rest of the card is also stacked, including a #1 contender’s match for the NXT Women’s Championship, the finals of the WWE Speed tournament between Josh Briggs and Eli Knight, and more in-ring action from Jaida Parker, Blake Monroe, Hank Walker, Tank Ledger, Brad Baylor, and Ricky Smokes.
With Hendry opening the show, expect plenty of fireworks right from the jump. Whether he addresses his shocking title win, his future challengers, or just delivers one of his signature promos, fans are in for something special.
Are you ready for Joe Hendry’s NXT Championship reign to begin—and who do you think should be his first challenger? Drop your picks and feedback in the comments below!