Zoey Serrano questions WWE NXT training efficacy for main roster success

Current TNA Wrestling performer Zoey Serrano stated that WWE's developmental brand, NXT, does not adequately prepare wrestlers for the transition to the Raw and SmackDown main rosters. During an appearance on the Busted Open podcast on September 2, 2026, Serrano described the contrast between the highly structured environment of NXT and the independent nature of the main roster. She noted that while NXT provides constant guidance on character presentation and match choreography from coaches like Shawn Michaels and Matt Bloom, the main roster requires wrestlers to manage their own creative direction. Serrano, who competed in WWE as Zoey Stark before joining TNA, highlighted that the main roster functions as a sink-or-swim environment compared to the step-by-step training found in NXT. This perspective reflects her experience moving from developmental television to a partnership with Trish Stratus on the main roster.

• 1:30 PMWrestling Inc — TNA's Zoey Serrano (Fka Stark) Doesn't Think WWE NXT Prepares You For The Main Roster