In a stunning turn of events that left fans on the edge of their seats, Joe Hendry emerged as the new WWE NXT Champion, filling the void left by the unexpected departure of Oba Femi. But here's where it gets controversial—was Hendry truly the most deserving contender, or did the ladder match simply favor his strategy over raw skill? Let’s dive into the details.
During the February 3rd, 2026, episode of WWE NXT, a high-stakes ladder match was organized to determine the next NXT Champion. The lineup was packed with talent, including Ricky Saints, Shiloh Hill, Sean Legacy, Dion Lennox, Keanu Carver, Evolve Men’s Champion Jackson Drake, and, of course, Joe Hendry. Each wrestler brought their unique style and determination to the ring, making the match a must-watch spectacle.
As the match reached its climax, Hendry and Saints found themselves in a heart-stopping tug-of-war at the top of the ladder, both inches away from claiming the title. In a move that sparked debate among fans, Hendry knocked Saints off the ladder, sending him crashing onto a bridged ladder below. With Saints out of the way, Hendry seized the title, officially becoming the new NXT Champion. And this is the part most people miss—while Hendry’s victory was decisive, it raises questions about the role of tactics versus athleticism in high-pressure matches.
The moment was captured in a now-viral tweet by The Movement – Pro Wrestling, showcasing the dramatic fall of Ricky Saints and Hendry’s triumphant claim to the championship. But here’s the thought-provoking question: Did Hendry’s win solidify his status as a strategic mastermind, or does it leave room for critics to argue that luck played a bigger role than we’d like to admit? Sound off in the comments—we want to hear your take on this controversial victory!
