Backstage News on Tony D’Angelo’s WWE Absence – The absence of Tony D’Angelo from WWE NXT programming has sparked plenty of speculation among fans, but new details have now emerged regarding his mysterious disappearance. According to Dave Meltzer in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, D’Angelo’s hiatus has nothing to do with an injury. Instead, the report notes that “The Don of NXT” personally requested time off. At this stage, it remains unclear when he will make his return.
Since debuting in late 2021, D’Angelo has become one of NXT’s most prominent stars. He quickly established himself by forming “The D’Angelo Family,” a faction that included names like Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo and Luca Crusifino. Under his leadership, the group found considerable success, with D’Angelo himself capturing multiple championships. His accolades include reigns as NXT North American Champion, NXT Heritage Cup holder, and two stints as NXT Tag Team Champion.
However, 2025 brought major shifts. Earlier this year, the D’Angelo Family storyline unraveled, with tensions between its members leading to a heated rivalry. The feud reached its conclusion on the July 15 episode of NXT, where D’Angelo defeated both Stacks and Crusifino in a Triple Threat Match. That win turned out to be his final bout before stepping away.
His last on-screen appearance came two weeks later on July 29 in a segment that left fans buzzing. The scene showed D’Angelo sitting alone at a table before being approached by a shadowy figure, with the screen abruptly fading to black. The moment drew comparisons to the iconic ending of HBO’s The Sopranos, with many interpreting it as a symbolic “hit” on the character.
Meanwhile, NXT has shifted focus to its ongoing invasion storyline with TNA Wrestling, which will culminate at the October 7 “Showdown” special. Interestingly, the NXT North American Championship, once held by D’Angelo, is now around the waist of Ethan Page, who will defend it against TNA’s Mustafa Ali at the event.
While D’Angelo’s return timetable is unknown, his absence has left a noticeable void in NXT—and fans continue to wonder when “The Don” will reappear to reclaim his place at the head of the table.
Backstage News on Tony D’Angelo’s WWE Absence
