Big changes were made to this past Monday's episode of Raw.
According to Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer, the idea to use NXT talent was a late decision that not even Triple H knew about. Meltzer stated there was "a lack of communication" throughout the process. As Fightful previously reported, many in the company were caught off guard by NXT talent appearing on the show.
Meltzer goes on to report that Ricochet was originally scheduled to face Finn Balor, but the match was changed by Triple H, who didn't want a face vs. face match or either guy taking a loss. Balor had won the Intercontinental Title the night before at WWE Elimination Chamber and Ricochet would have been making his debut. Ricochet and Balor ended up teaming together to defeat Bobby Lashley and Lio Rush.
Finally, the bout between Ronda Rousey and Ruby Riott was reportedly scheduled to be Rousey against Alexa Bliss in "a quick squash" but the match was changed when they "needed more time" out of the match.
Johnny Gargano, Tommaso Ciampa, Ricochet, and Aleister Black were not only used on Raw, but were part of SmackDown as well. NXT is set to hold a "special announcement" tonight on television and the brand will hold their latest set of tapings from Full Sail.
