WWE NXT Announces Judges for Inaugural Mr. NXT Pageant
WWE NXT General Manager Robert Stone has officially confirmed the panel of judges for the first-ever “Mr. NXT” pageant, scheduled to take place on the June 9, 2026, episode of NXT. The contest will feature a head-to-head competition between Shiloh Hill and Tristan Angels, with the winner determined by their performance in three specific categories: attire, talent, and public speaking.
Who are the judges for the Mr. NXT pageant?
According to an announcement made by Robert Stone via his official social media channels, the three individuals selected to score the competition are EVOLVE Champion Aaron Rourke, Kit Wilson, and comedian Matt Mathews. The panel has been tasked with evaluating the contestants as they navigate the pageant’s three core segments.
The decision to bring in this specific trio follows a period of anticipation regarding the event, which was officially revealed by WWE to crown the inaugural Mr. NXT. The pageant serves as a unique segment on the upcoming broadcast, contrasting with the high-stakes championship matches also scheduled for the evening.
What else is scheduled for the June 9, 2026, episode of NXT?
Beyond the spectacle of the pageant, the June 9 broadcast features a packed lineup centered on championship gold and contender status. The full card announced for the episode includes:
- Mr. NXT Pageant: Shiloh Hill vs. Tristan Angels
- NXT Women’s North American Championship: Tatum Paxley (c) vs. Zaria
- NXT Championship Number One Contender Match: Mason Rook vs. NARAKU
- NXT Women’s Championship Number One Contender Match: Kelani Jordan vs. Kendal Grey
Why the Mr. NXT pageant matters
This event represents a shift in standard programming, moving away from traditional wrestling bouts to incorporate character-driven segments. By tasking judges with scoring categories like public speaking and attire, NXT is emphasizing the personality and charisma of its roster members. The inclusion of external talent, such as comedian Matt Mathews, alongside established performers like Kit Wilson and Aaron Rourke, suggests a focus on entertainment value designed to engage the audience beyond the confines of a standard match.
As the brand prepares for this unique contest, the focus remains on whether the competitors—Hill and Angels—can balance their in-ring capabilities with the showmanship required to impress the panel. The results of this pageant, paired with the outcomes of the two number one contender matches, are expected to significantly impact the trajectory of the NXT brand heading into the summer.