The anticipation surrounding tonight’s WWE NXT Homecoming special at Full Sail University just escalated dramatically as WWE officially confirmed the surprise additions of William Regal and Finn Balor to the star-packed event. This comes on the heels of a flurry of announcements unveiling major main roster talents for the September 16, 2025 show airing on The CW Network at 8/7c, including Bobby Roode, Bianca Belair, and United States Champion Sami Zayn[1][2].

NXT Homecoming is shaping up to be one of the most memorable NXT specials in recent history, combining the energy of the brand’s roots at Full Sail with appearances by iconic figures who helped shape the brand. According to WWE insiders, William Regal’s inclusion is especially poignant given his legacy as the long-time NXT General Manager and talent scout, whose behind-the-scenes work helped elevate NXT to prominence[1]. Meanwhile, Finn Balor’s celebrated return to the NXT stage is widely anticipated by fans eager to see one of the brand’s original trailblazers back in action on his old turf.

A Lineup Packed With Talent and Nostalgia

Beyond Regal and Balor, the card features a blend of NXT stalwarts and main roster stars, promising compelling matches and special segments:

• The Grayson Waller Effect talk show, featuring guests Oba Femi and Ricky Saints.
• NXT North American Championship clash: Ethan Page (c) vs. Tyler Breeze.
• Tag team showdown: #DIY (Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano) take on Trick Williams & Carmelo Hayes.
• WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship bout: Alexa Bliss & Charlotte Flair (c) vs. Tatum Paxley & Izzi Dame.
• Six-woman tag match: Stephanie Vaquer, Lyra Valkyria & Rhea Ripley vs. Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley & Jazmyn Nyx)[2][3][4].

Sources close to WWE confirm that the addition of Regal and Balor was part of an effort to make this “Homecoming” truly special—not only honoring NXT’s past but spotlighting its present and future stars. “Bringing Regal back on-screen is an emotional nod to NXT’s history, while Finn Balor’s appearance keeps the spotlight on the elite talent shaping NXT’s legacy,” shared a WWE insider familiar with the booking process.

Bianca Belair and Sami Zayn Bring Main Roster Clout

Among the main roster stars making rare appearances, “The EST” Bianca Belair is celebrated as a beacon of athleticism and charisma, having blazing success on Raw while still maintaining strong ties to the NXT brand where she initially rose to prominence[1]. Similarly, Sami Zayn, one of wrestling’s most beloved figures and the current United States Champion, will return to Full Sail, adding further star power and fan excitement to the mix[1][5].

“WWE’s strategy for NXT Homecoming is clear: blend nostalgia with current star power,” noted a Fightful podcast analyst. “The crowd reaction at Full Sail will be tremendous with legends like Regal and Balor sharing the spotlight with the hottest names on the roster.”

Bobby Roode Headlines Returns Alongside Other Favorites

Adding to the nostalgia factor, “The Glorious” Bobby Roode will make a special appearance. Roode’s charisma and classic entrance music helped define the early NXT era, and fans are eager for his return. Plus, the anticipation for #DIY’s reunion with Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa against the rising duo of Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes highlights the balance between honoring the past and embracing new talent.

Rhea Ripley’s involvement in the high-stakes six-woman tag match bolsters the card’s depth and ensures the women’s division remains prominently featured. Ripley, who started her breakthrough journey in NXT, will team up with Lyra Valkyria and Stephanie Vaquer to face the lethal trio of Fatal Influence[3][7].

How Fans Can Watch and What to Expect

WWE NXT Homecoming 2025 airs live tonight from Full Sail University starting at 8 PM ET / 7 PM CT on The CW Network in the United States, and internationally available on Netflix. Running approximately two hours, this special episode promises an electrifying evening packed with intense matches, surprise moments, and heartfelt tributes to NXT’s heritage[3][6].

Given the strengthened lineup with the addition of Regal and Balor, expectations are sky-high. Observers note that WWE likely aims to use this event to boost interest in NXT’s ongoing storylines while celebrating its legacy in a way that resonates with longtime fans and new viewers alike.

One backstage source shared, “The emotion will be real tonight. Full Sail is the birthplace of so many careers, and having Regal and Balor back is a perfect way to remind fans of what NXT means to the WWE Universe.”

Final Thoughts

WWE NXT Homecoming is more than a typical episode—it is a celebration of the brand’s rich history and the superstars who have helped build it. The late-minute additions of William Regal and Finn Balor add significant gravitas and excitement, complementing the strong card brimming with top-notch talent such as Bianca Belair, Sami Zayn, and Bobby Roode.

Fans watching tonight should expect a blend of thrilling in-ring action, engaging segments, and memorable moments that pay homage to NXT’s past while setting the stage for its future success.

Stay tuned for live coverage and results tonight as WWE delivers the ultimate NXT Homecoming event from Full Sail University.

Sources: WWE.com, WrestlingHeadlines.com, Fightful Podcast, RingsideNews.com, AthlonSports.com, Sportskeeda.com