Nina Samuels Expresses Mixed Feelings on NXT UK Closure

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In a surprising turn of events, WWE made the difficult decision to close its doors on "NXT UK" in August 2022, a move that sent shockwaves throughout the wrestling community. The closure resulted in the release of numerous talented wrestlers associated with the European brand, including the vibrant and determined Nina Samuels.

Recently, Samuels offered insights into her initial reaction and the remarkable journey that followed in the wake of this seismic change. Samuels shared her candid thoughts during a heartfelt interview on "Busted Open Radio," painting a vivid picture of the emotional rollercoaster she experienced upon learning of NXT UK's fate.

The momentous news reached her while she was in a locker room at an independent wrestling show. She explained, "I found out about the NXT UK closure while I was at an indie show, which was pre-approved, as we were still allowed to participate in certain independent events during our WWE tenure." It was undoubtedly a moment that would forever alter her career trajectory.

The initial impact of the news was understandably challenging for Samuels, but she approached her match that night with determination. She had to give her best performance despite the uncertainty surrounding her wrestling future.

As time passed and the reality of the situation began to sink in, a glimmer of hope emerged. Samuels reflected, "One of the first thoughts that crossed my mind after being released was, 'Okay, now I can go to Japan.' " For her, this was a long-awaited opportunity, a bucket-list moment she had yearned for but couldn't seize before joining WWE due to her full-time job and scheduling constraints.

Turning Point: Meiko's Message

Samuels further divulged that a text message from the legendary Meiko Satomura played a pivotal role in her post-WWE journey. This message led to her appearance in Sendai Girls' Pro Wrestling during the latter part of the previous year, marking a significant turning point in her career.

Returning to the independent wrestling scene after having only a handful of WWE matches in 2021, Samuels discovered a renewed sense of joy in her performances. She reflected on this period with immense gratitude, stating, "While it was undeniably a tough pill to swallow initially, it's given me, without a doubt, the absolute best year of my career by a country mile." The closure of NXT UK may have been a daunting and unexpected chapter in her wrestling journey.

Still, it opened the door to a world of new opportunities and experiences that have ultimately enriched her career. Nina Samuels' story serves as a testament to the resilience and determination of professional wrestlers, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity and uncertainty, pursuing one's dreams can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

As she continues to forge her path in the wrestling industry, fans eagerly await the next chapter in the remarkable journey of this talented and inspiring athlete.