For the first time in its history, WWE's NXT Stand & Deliver premium event breaks free from WrestleMania weekend. The event takes place at The Factory in St. Louis, Missouri at 7 PM ET Saturday night, broadcast on YouTube.
Traditionally held the morning before WrestleMania, Stand & Deliver now stands alone. NXT Championship contender Tony D'Angelo says the separation allows more fans to watch without juggling multiple events in one weekend.
"Every year prior, it's always the morning of WrestleMania Night 1, so some people don't feel like getting up and going to a show and then going to WrestleMania on top of it," D'Angelo explained.
Sol Ruca, facing Zaria at the event, welcomed the change. "Having to go to multiple shows in the same weekend - it can be a lot for the fans. Us having it separate gives us our own moment."
NXT Women's Champion Jacy Jayne sees opportunity in independence. "This is the perfect opportunity for us to show that we really are the third brand. It's not just a developmental brand. We can stand on our own."
The strategy shows results. Last year's Stand & Deliver stars including Stephanie Vaquer, Lash Legend, Oba Femi and Trick Williams all earned WWE main roster call-ups and will compete at WrestleMania 42.