Spin the Wheel

NXT New Year's Evil 2026

NXT: New Year's Evil 2026 is scheduled for Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at the Capitol Wrestling Center (WWE Performance Center) in Orlando, Florida, airing live as a special episode of NXT on The CW at 8 p.m. ET. This annual event has become one of the most anticipated specials in the NXT calendar, combining high-stakes championship matches with the excitement of kicking off the new year in professional wrestling. The 2026 edition promises to deliver the kind of compelling storytelling and athletic excellence that has made NXT one of the most respected brands in professional wrestling. The event will feature two championship matches that were earned through impressive performances at NXT Deadline. The NXT Championship match pits champion Oba Femi against challenger Je'Von Evans, who earned this opportunity by winning the Men's Iron Survivor Challenge at NXT Deadline. This match represents a clash between established champion and rising challenger, with Evans looking to capitalize on his momentum from the Iron Survivor Challenge to claim his first NXT Championship. The Iron Survivor Challenge format, which tests competitors' endurance, strategy, and ability to perform under pressure, makes Evans a particularly compelling challenger, as he has already proven his ability to excel in high-pressure situations. The NXT Women's Championship match features champion Jacy Jayne defending against Kendal Grey, who secured her title shot by winning the Women's Iron Survivor Challenge at NXT Deadline. This match continues the tradition of strong women's wrestling in NXT, with both competitors having proven themselves in the demanding Iron Survivor Challenge format. Jayne's championship experience will be tested against Grey's momentum and determination, creating an intriguing dynamic that could go either way. The women's division in NXT has consistently delivered some of the best matches in professional wrestling, and this championship match promises to continue that tradition. The Iron Survivor Challenge format, which determines both championship challengers, is a unique NXT creation that combines elements of traditional wrestling with innovative match structures. Competitors must survive multiple falls, earn points, and outlast their opponents in a format that tests every aspect of their abilities. Winning this challenge is a significant accomplishment that demonstrates a competitor's readiness for championship competition, making both Evans and Grey credible and compelling challengers. The event's timing at the beginning of January makes it a perfect way to kick off the new year in professional wrestling. New Year's Evil has become a tradition in NXT, providing a platform for major matches and storylines to begin the year with significant momentum. The special event format allows for extended matches, more elaborate production, and the kind of atmosphere that makes wrestling events feel special and important. This sense of occasion adds to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the matches. The Capitol Wrestling Center setting provides an intimate atmosphere that enhances the connection between performers and audience. While larger arenas can create distance, the Performance Center allows for a more focused, intense experience where every detail of the action is visible and the energy of the crowd is palpable. This setting has become iconic in NXT, representing the brand's commitment to putting the wrestling and the performers first, with production values that enhance rather than overshadow the in-ring action. The broadcast on The CW represents NXT's continued expansion and accessibility. Moving to a major broadcast network has increased NXT's visibility and reach, allowing more fans to experience the brand's unique approach to professional wrestling. The live broadcast format adds to the excitement, as viewers know they're watching events unfold in real-time, with all the unpredictability and spontaneity that live television provides. The event's card, while currently focused on the two championship matches, leaves room for additional matches and segments to be announced in the coming weeks. This approach allows NXT to build anticipation and respond to storylines as they develop, ensuring that the event reflects the current state of the brand and the most compelling narratives. The flexibility to add matches also allows for the inclusion of other talented performers and storylines that deserve spotlight moments. Oba Femi's championship reign will be tested against Je'Von Evans, who represents the next generation of NXT talent. This dynamic between established champion and rising challenger is one of the most compelling in professional wrestling, as it represents both the present and future of the brand. Femi's experience and championship pedigree will be valuable assets, but Evans' momentum and hunger could prove to be decisive factors. The match promises to showcase both competitors' abilities while telling a story about the passing of the torch or the champion's ability to hold onto his position. Jacy Jayne's defense against Kendal Grey represents another compelling championship dynamic. Jayne's experience as champion and her understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level will be tested against Grey's determination and the momentum she's built through winning the Iron Survivor Challenge. The women's division in NXT has a history of delivering exceptional matches, and this championship defense promises to continue that tradition while potentially setting up future storylines and rivalries. The event's significance extends beyond just the matches themselves. New Year's Evil serves as a statement of intent for NXT as it enters a new year, showcasing the brand's top talent, compelling storylines, and commitment to excellence. The event provides an opportunity for NXT to demonstrate why it remains one of the most respected brands in professional wrestling, with a focus on in-ring action, character development, and long-term storytelling. For fans of professional wrestling, NXT: New Year's Evil 2026 represents an opportunity to see some of the best talent in the industry compete in high-stakes matches with championship implications. The event's combination of established champions and rising challengers creates compelling dynamics that could go in multiple directions. The live broadcast format adds to the excitement, as viewers can experience the event as it unfolds, with all the unpredictability and drama that makes live professional wrestling so compelling. As NXT: New Year's Evil 2026 approaches, the event promises to deliver the kind of quality professional wrestling and compelling storytelling that has made NXT a favorite among wrestling fans. The championship matches, earned through impressive performances in the Iron Survivor Challenge, represent the best of what NXT has to offer—talented performers, compelling storylines, and high-stakes competition. For anyone who appreciates professional wrestling at its finest, the event promises to be a memorable way to start the new year in wrestling.