After an impressive run with New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), former Strong Openweight Champion Hikuleo, who stands an imposing 6 feet 8 inches tall, signed with WWE in July 2024. At 33 years old, Hikuleo brings both size and experience to the roster, adding another talent with ties to the famed Anoa’i wrestling family. Fans have been eager to see how Hikuleo will be integrated into WWE, and new reports suggest that his journey will begin in NXT.

According to PWInsider Elite, Hikuleo has been added to WWE’s internal NXT roster, though the exact timing of his in-ring debut remains unclear. His last match was at NJPW’s Dominion event in June 2024, where he participated in a four-way elimination tag-team match.

Given Hikuleo’s strong familial connections, many speculated that he might bypass NXT entirely and debut directly on the main roster as part of the ongoing Bloodline storyline. As the brother of Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa, Hikuleo is a natural fit for the group’s angle, which has seen Solo Sikoa’s faction clash with Roman Reigns. Both of Hikuleo’s brothers, as well as Jacob Fatu, skipped the NXT developmental process. However, it appears that won’t be the case for Hikuleo.


WWE seems to have different plans, opting for Hikuleo to further develop his skills in NXT before positioning him as a main roster talent. This strategic move comes at a pivotal time, as NXT is set to move to The CW next week. Hikuleo’s arrival, with his towering presence and Bloodline ties, is expected to provide a significant boost of star power to the developmental brand. His presence could help mark a new era for NXT on its new network.

With all this in mind, wrestling fans should stay on high alert for Hikuleo’s arrival in NXT sooner rather than later.