Lainey Reid discusses bittersweet NXT call-up to WWE SmackDown
Wrestling Inc • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 5:30 PM
Last updated Aug 23, 2026
Lainey Reid, recently called up to WWE SmackDown in April 2026, expressed mixed feelings about her transition from NXT. While she achieved a long-held goal of joining WWE's main roster, Reid feels she missed significant opportunities in her development. She emphasized her excitement about starting anew and creating her own story with WWE fans unfamiliar with her background. Reid debuted on NXT TV on June 3, 2025, and after the group Fatal Influence lost a member, she quickly joined alongside Fallon Henley and Jacy Jayne. The trio recently targeted the WWE Women's Tag Team and Women's Champions.
- •Lainey Reid joined SmackDown in April 2026 after NXT debut in June 2025.
- •She desires to pursue unfinished business from her NXT tenure.
- •Reid feels she can craft her new narrative in SmackDown.
- •Fatal Influence lost a member before Reid's call-up to the main roster.
- •The trio recently targeted WWE Women's Tag Team and Women's Champions.
- 5:30 PMWrestling Inc — WWE's Lainey Reid Explains Why NXT Call-Up Was 'Bittersweet'
"Fatal Influence's Lainey Reid explains why her call up to "WWE SmackDown" in April 2026 came with mixed feelings.
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