The May 12 episode of WWE NXT featured a notable moment for fans familiar with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, as the former EVIL made his official debut under a new name. Now competing as Naraku, the veteran star stepped into a WWE ring for the first time and made an immediate impact.
Naraku’s new ring name carries a fitting meaning. Translated from Japanese, “Naraku” refers to “hell” or “abyss,” aligning closely with the dark persona he established during his time in NJPW. Known for his aggressive style and commanding presence, he entered NXT with a level of intrigue surrounding how he would be presented in WWE.
His first opponent was Lince Dorado, a familiar name to WWE audiences and a current competitor in AAA. The matchup gave fans an early look at Naraku’s in-ring approach under the WWE banner, and it quickly became clear what direction the company is taking with him.
The bout was largely one-sided. Naraku controlled the pace from the opening moments and delivered a dominant performance throughout. Dorado’s offense was limited, as Naraku dictated the action and showcased a physical, methodical style. At several points, Naraku slowed things down to further punish his opponent, emphasizing control rather than urgency.
Dorado’s performance helped highlight Naraku’s offense, making the debuting star appear as a serious threat. The match was presented as a decisive showcase, with Naraku dismantling his opponent before securing a clear victory.
With this win, Naraku begins his WWE run on a strong note. His background as a former IWGP Heavyweight Champion adds credibility, and his presentation on NXT suggests that WWE sees value in positioning him as a dominant force early on.
It remains to be seen how quickly Naraku will move into the NXT Title picture. However, with recent roster call-ups impacting the brand’s depth, his arrival comes at a time when new top-level talent is needed. His debut performance established him as a potential key figure moving forward.
Naraku Debuts On NXT
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