Joe Hendry Captures NXT Title in Thrilling Ladder Match
On February 3, 2026, WWE NXT delivered one of its most unforgettable episodes yet, with British sensation Joe Hendry emerging as the new NXT Champion after a grueling Ladder Match. The event, broadcast live from the WWE Performance Center, showcased high-stakes action that had fans on the edge of their seats. Hendry's victory not only crowns him as the top star in NXT but also marks a pivotal moment in his crossover journey from TNA Wrestling to WWE's developmental brand.
The Road to the Ladder Match
Joe Hendry, known for his charismatic persona and viral catchphrases like "Say his name and he appears," has been building momentum in NXT since his debut. The 38-year-old Scotsman, with a background in indie circuits and a stint in TNA where he held multiple titles, entered the night as a fan favorite in the race for the vacant NXT Championship. The title became available following a controversial storyline involving the previous champion's injury, setting the stage for this multi-man Ladder Match.
The buildup to the match was intense, with promos and skirmishes hyping the competitors. Hendry's opponents included a mix of NXT's rising talents and established names, turning the contest into a test of endurance, strategy, and sheer athleticism. As the main event, it promised chaos—and it delivered.
Match Highlights: Chaos on the Ladders
From the opening bell, the Ladder Match devolved into pandemonium. Ladders weren't just climbing tools; they became weapons of destruction. Competitors swung them like baseball bats, bridged them between ring posts for high-risk dives, and even stacked them creatively to reach the suspended belt. Hendry, leveraging his technical prowess and showmanship, navigated the mayhem with precision.
Early on, alliances formed and shattered. One wrestler attempted a superplex off a ladder, only to crash through tables below, eliciting gasps from the crowd. Hendry dodged a devastating ladder-assisted powerbomb, countering with his signature Standing Ovation— a discus lariat that floored his rival. The Scottish star's resilience shone as he kicked out of near-falls and climbed amid flying bodies.
In a pivotal moment, with under five minutes left, Hendry fended off a two-on-one assault. He tipped a ladder, sending opponents tumbling, then ascended amid cheers. The climax saw him unhook the NXT Championship after a 12-minute battle, solidifying his status as a main-event player. The victory was met with a roaring ovation, underscoring Hendry's connection with the NXT Universe.
Broader Impact on NXT and Hendry's Career
Hendry's win is more than a title change; it's a statement. As a performer who blends humor with hard-hitting action, he brings a unique flavor to NXT's roster. His TNA pedigree, where he was a former World Tag Team Champion, adds legitimacy, but his WWE run has elevated him to new heights. Analysts predict this could lead to a call-up to the main roster, potentially clashing with stars like CM Punk or Roman Reigns.
The episode wasn't just about Hendry. Other matches added to the night's excitement. NXT Women’s North American Champion Izzi Dame retained her title in a Triple Threat against Thea Hail and Lola Vice, showcasing her dominance with a Gutwrench Powerbomb. Meanwhile, Elio LeFleur advanced in the Men’s Speed Tournament by defeating Charlie Dempsey in a nail-biter.
The Elegance Brand defended their TNA Knockouts Tag Team Titles against ZaRuca, capitalizing on internal discord. Lexis King and Stacks scored a win over Chase U, hinting at storyline shifts, while Jacy Jayne issued a fiery call-out to Sol Ruca post-Royal Rumble. Tony D’Angelo's promo on "punishment" further teased his darker arc.
What’s Next for the New Champion?
With the NXT Title around his waist, Hendry's challenges are just beginning. Expect title defenses against top contenders like those from the Speed Tournament or rising heels. His celebratory in-ring speech emphasized gratitude to fans, promising to "make NXT roar louder than ever." Social media buzzed post-match, with #JoeHendry trending worldwide.
For UK fans, Hendry's triumph feels personal—a British export conquering WWE's biggest stage. As NXT evolves under Triple H's vision, Hendry represents the brand's global appeal. Whether defending at upcoming Premium Live Events or mentoring newcomers, his reign promises excitement.
Why This Matters in Wrestling Today
In an era where WWE emphasizes athletic storytelling, Hendry's Ladder Match win exemplifies the blend of spectacle and substance. Ladder Matches, a staple since the Attitude Era, continue to thrill, and this one ranks among NXT's best. It highlights WWE's commitment to international talent, with Hendry joining the likes of Gunther and Ilja Dragunov as European success stories.
As Everythiiing.com's wrestling correspondent, I've covered many title changes, but Hendry's feels fresh. His ability to engage audiences beyond the ring—through music and memes—positions him for crossover stardom. Stay tuned for updates on his first defense and potential feuds.
This episode of WWE NXT, available on Peacock, Netflix, and USA Network, is a must-watch. Joe Hendry isn't just a champion; he's the future of sports entertainment.
