Adam Cole has commented on his NXT run, explaining why he chose to leave WWE and sign with AEW.
Cole was one of the most decorated talents in NXT history, winning the brand’s North American, Tag Team, and main NXT titles during his tenure on the then Black and Gold brand.
The popular star also won the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic with Kyle O’Reilly in 2018, on behalf of the Undisputed Era.
Following rumors about a main roster call-up, Cole finished up with WWE in August 2021, after his contract with the company expired.
Less than a month after his final NXT appearance, Cole made his surprise AEW debut in the main event segment of All Out 2021.
Speaking on Wrestling Observer Radio, Cole noted that his partner Britt Baker and his friends being in AEW were big factors in his decision to join the promotion:
“I had a wonderful experience working in NXT with Triple H and Shawn Michaels. I learned so much from them and it was an absolute joy to be there.
“All the coaches, everyone. I learned a lot being there and grew as a performer.
“And then looking at AEW, once again, Britt being there was a huge factor, my friends being there was a huge factor, the audience being so rabid and so wild.
“Every single week looked so exciting and (it was) something I wanted to be involved in.”
Cole hasn’t wrestled since June 2022, but revealed last month that he’s now preparing to return to the ring following his serious injuries.
