Cody Rhodes calls out NXT star set to make his debut on WWE Smackdown this week
(Courtesy : Getty)
Cody Rhodes is all set to welcome his old friend to the Blue Brand!
Cody Rhodes has welcomed another rising name to the main roster, as Ricky Saints prepares to make his WWE SmackDown debut this week.
Following last week’s call-up of Fatal Influence, WWE is now introducing a contrasting presence, a babyface prospect ready to step up after just one year in NXT. Saints’ rapid rise reflects the company’s growing confidence in his potential.
Rhodes took to X to react to Saints promoting his upcoming appearance on May 1 in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Responding with a GIF captioned, “All these feelings hitting me at once”
“Crybaby Ricky gonna’ do something or what? 🤜 (Pumped for you),” Rhodes wrote.
Cody Rhodes and Ricky Saints know each other from AEW
The interaction wasn’t just storyline hype; it carried genuine history. Rhodes and Saints have known each other long before their WWE runs, dating back to their shared time in AEW.
That connection adds an emotional dimension to Saints’ debut, as one of WWE’s top stars publicly endorses his transition to the main roster. It also positions Saints as a talent to watch immediately upon arrival.
His SmackDown debut marks the next step in a journey that has moved quickly. Within a year, Saints has gone from NXT newcomer to main roster call-up, a trajectory few achieve so rapidly.
Saints’ final appearance on NXT came in a loss to Shiloh Hill, but the result was secondary to the moment.
After the match, Saints addressed the crowd in an off-air promo, thanking the production team and reflecting on his journey. While he stumbled over dates, he clarified that he debuted on February 11 and had his first match on February 25.
“If this is the very last time I’m on NXT,” Saints said, “I’ll thank everyone for this journey.”
He closed by expressing hope that fans would continue following him on SmackDown, signaling both gratitude and anticipation for what comes next.
Ricky Starks all set to appear on WWE SmackDown this week
With Rhodes’ backing and a heartfelt farewell behind him, Saints now steps onto a much bigger stage. SmackDown presents new challenges, but also greater opportunities.
Backed by momentum and authenticity, Saints’ debut could mark the beginning of a significant run. If his NXT journey is any indication, WWE may already have its next breakout star.
When will Ricky Saints debut on SmackDown?
He is scheduled to appear on the May 1 episode of WWE SmackDown in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Who did Ricky Saints face in his final NXT match?
He faced Shiloh Hill in his last NXT match before moving to the main roster.
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