NXT GM Shake-Up: Who’s Next After Ava? (Fantasy Edition)
Big news today—WWE NXT General Manager Ava Raine (Simone Alexandra Johnson) has officially left WWE. She announced on Instagram that she chose not to renew her contract, making this past Tuesday’s episode her final appearance.
As The Rock’s daughter and the youngest GM in company history (since 2024), she brought fresh energy to the role, handling big storylines like the recent NXT Championship vacancy setup.
While the character didn’t always land that commanding authority vibe for everyone, it’s exciting to speculate on who steps in next. Shawn Michaels runs things backstage, but an on-screen GM needs strong presence to drive segments.
Here’s my shortlist of realistic and fun options:
1. Shawn Michaels – The Safe, Glorious Boss Move
HBK’s already the creative heart of NXT. Put him on-screen full-time in a sharp suit, dropping classic one-liners and Sweet Chin Music threats? Instant credibility boost.
It’d feel like the old Authority era but with more heart for the young talent.
2. Stevie Turner – The Smooth, In-House Upgrade
She’s been assistant GM, handles Evolve stuff too—promote her fully for continuity. She’s got that quiet intensity; lean into a no-BS, behind-the-scenes operator vibe who surprises with big rulings.
Perfect low-drama transition.
3. Big E – Fun, Charismatic Energy Inject
The New Day star’s mic skills are gold, and a non-wrestling return role like this could be huge. Positive authority figure empowering the roster, cracking jokes, maybe forcing dance-offs for title shots?
NXT could use that kind of uplift.
Wild Fantasy: Daria Rae (“The Suit”) – Inter-Brand Takeover Chaos
Okay, 99.9% not happening, but picture this: WWE surprises everyone by bringing back ex-Sonya Deville (now Daria Rae/“The Suit” in TNA) for a crossover stint. She’s got killer GM experience, that intimidating suit-and-tie heel aura, and could boss both NXT and TNA Knockouts for insane storyline potential (cross-promotion wars, anyone?).
She’s locked into TNA right now on a short deal, loving it there, so this stays pure fantasy—but man, the heat it’d generate!
Wrap-Up
WWE NXT’s in transition mode with call-ups and new signings, so a strong GM could really steer the ship.
Whoever it is, give ‘em edge, good promo delivery, and let them drive stories without overshadowing the talent.
