Elijah Returns to WWE NXT in Surprise Battle Royal Appearance

Former WWE Superstar Elias, now known as Elijah and currently signed with TNA, made a surprise return to WWE NXT during the May 6, 2025 episode, entering a 25-man battle royal to determine the next contender for Oba Femi's NXT Championship. Elijah's entrance featured his signature guitar performance, drawing enthusiastic 'welcome home' chants from the live crowd and signaling the ongoing partnership between TNA and NXT. During the match, he eliminated Trick Williams after a distraction from TNA World Champion Joe Hendry but was soon eliminated himself by Shawn Spears. Elijah addressed the crowd, inviting them to 'walk with Elijah,' and his appearance has sparked speculation about future cross-promotional events. He is also scheduled to team with Joe Hendry in a tag match against Frankie Kazarian and Trick Williams at TNA Under Siege later in May. The crowd's positive response suggested Elijah's return was warmly received, and he now carries new momentum as a TNA representative on NXT programming.