Top name teasing return, absent performer - 4 WWE RAW and SmackDown stars who could enter the NXT Battle Royal

WWE NXT is firing on all cylinders right now. The brand just came off of an exciting NXT Battleground Premium Live Event that saw the crowning of the first-ever NXT Women's North American Champion. Additionally, some exciting new stars have joined the brand such as Ethan Page and Shawn Spears.

Another exciting aspect was the surprise appearances by Jordynne Grace and even Ash By Elegance. This has pointed to some kind of relationship with TNA Wrestling, which could come in handy on NXT this week when there will be a Battle Royal held to determine Trick Williams' next opponent for the NXT Championship.

Cody Rhodes, the man who made the announcement for General Manager Ava, noted that some people may also appear from other locker rooms as well. This indicates that TNA Wrestling or even NOAH stars could show up, but this could also mean talent from RAW or SmackDown may appear.

This article will take a look at stars from the company's main roster who could potentially partake in the gimmick match and perhaps even earn a title match with Trick Williams. Which superstars might show up tonight?

Below are four WWE RAW and SmackDown stars who could enter the NXT Battle Royal.

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#4. Carmelo Hayes teased a return to NXT on social media

Carmelo Hayes is one of the most talented in-ring competitors in WWE. At just 29 years of age, the former NXT Champion and NXT North American Champion has arguably not even hit his prime yet. The future is bright for Melo.

The Massachusetts native is now a top name on Friday Night SmackDown. He has been feuding with LA Knight since joining the main roster and has also made it clear that he hopes to become Mr. Money in the Bank.

Notably, Carmelo Hayes responded to the news about the NXT Battle Royal and seemingly teased his participation in the bout. The A-Champion just left the NXT brand, but he surely would want to reclaim a belt that was once his. If Hayes wins the Battle Royal, he could get one more match with Trick Williams.

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#3. Cedric Alexander is underutilized and mostly absent

Cedric Alexander is maybe the most underutilized performer in WWE, perhaps second only to Tegan Nox. He is a former RAW Tag Team Champion and Cruiserweight Champion, yet has rarely been used in an important or even unimportant role over the past several years.

The former RAW Tag Team Champion has mostly been absent from WWE television. He did appear on Friday Night SmackDown in the crowd alongside a few other notable names such as Pretty Deadly, Andrade, and Ashante "Thee" Adonis, however, perhaps signaling a return to TV.

Whether he is or isn't returning to SmackDown, Cedric going to NXT and competing in the upcoming Battle Royal would make a lot of sense. He would benefit from it and it would help shake things up, which is ultimately a win for all of the parties involved.

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#2. Joaquin Wilde already appears on WWE NXT periodically

Joaquin Wilde is another underrated performer in WWE, but one who has been receiving more opportunities over the past six months or so. He has been a semi-regular on NXT in addition to his duties on the main roster.

The talented star is a member of the Latino World Order. He is joined by Rey Mysterio, Cruz Del Toro, Dragon Lee, and Zelina Vega. His previous stable in WWE was Legado Del Fantasma where he worked under Santos Escobar.

Wilde typically teams up with Cruz Del Toro, including on NXT television. With Cruz unfortunately injured, Joaquin could have a mini-push on the white and gold brand. This would reward him for his incredible work week in and week out and his viral spots.

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#1. Cody Rhodes could shock fans by entering the match he announced

Cody Rhodes is a popular WWE performer and is also a veteran of the game. He started his career well over 15 years ago but did not truly break out until he returned to World Wrestling Entertainment in 2022. Now, he is arguably the top star in the company.

The American Nightmare is holding strong as the current Undisputed WWE Champion. He first won the title at WrestleMania XL and has since successfully retained the belt twice in matches with AJ Styles and once against Logan Paul.

Given that it was Cody who announced the Battle Royal, it would be a tremendous surprise if he appeared in the match. Fans wanted him and Trick Williams to clash, so why not have Rhodes in the bout and go on to challenge for the NXT Championship? It would make for an exciting element to watch for fans.