NXT Vengeance Day 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most important premium live events for WWE’s developmental brand this year. Taking place on 7 March 2026, the show will set the stage for NXT Stand and Deliver during WrestleMania weekend. While the five announced matches promise plenty of action, NXT events are also known for unexpected twists, surprise returns, and shocking appearances that change the direction of storylines. With several injured stars close to returning and potential crossover appearances from other promotions and the main roster, fans could witness some major surprises at NXT Vengeance Day 2026.
Let’s take a look at the biggest surprise returns and moments that could happen on the show..
Adriana Rizzo
She has been side-lined with an injury since the middle of 2025. It has been 7 months since she has been seen in WWE. Tony D’ Angelo will face Dion Lennox in a singles match. Dion Lennox will have the rest of the Dark state faction to back him. The return of Adriana Rizzo to NXT would mean she would be the backup for her mentor Tony D. It would be a cool surprise for the Fans. She would be a huge asset for the women’s division in NXT.
Mike Santana
NXT and TNA have a very good working relationship and they will continue that partnership going forward. There will be an NXT Championship Match between Joe Hendry vs Ricky Saints. Joe Hendry has a lot of history in TNA and especially with the TNA World Champion Mike Santana. Ricky Saints could try to cheat to win the World title. Mike Santana would be there as support to Joe Hendry and even the odds. It would be a welcome return for Mike Santana to NXT after the whirlwind last 6 months.
Nattie
Nattie has turned heel and she has had a history with Lola Vice in the NXT Underground Match. She can help Kelani Jordan get the advantage because Lola Vice has all the advantage. Lola Vice is the babyface and Kelani Jordan is the heel. Nattie has injured Maxxine Dupri and she will not stop anytime soon. She is looking for payback for all the women who beat her before. Lola Vice embarrassed her by tapping her out. It would be the return of a top star to NXT.
Street Profits
Although there is no tag team match on the PPV, The Street Profits can return to the show as a complete surprise. They are one Of the best tag teams in NXT history. They are former NXT Tag Team Champions. They are not featured on the main roster so a short run in NXT can help them to get their reps together and they will once again be able to put on Banger tag team Matches against the new slate of tag teams in NXT. The tag team division in NXT is dead and needs revival.
