Grayson Waller Details NXT Backstage Influence
“We had these veteran guys who took care of us, and now the veterans are kids who’ve been there two years, just because of how the system works.— Grayson Waller
Grayson Waller switched from boxing shorts to traditional wrestling tights upon his return to NXT earlier this year. The wardrobe change aligned with Waller adopting a more serious character approach. The adjustment contributed to his first NXT Title victory. Waller told Chris Van Vliet on Insight that he now understands why some viewed him as a joke while wearing the shorts.
He noted that the boxing shorts reflected his fandom for the sport and were intended to create a unique appearance rather than basketball shorts as some assumed. Waller realized the look prevented him from being seen as a serious championship contender.
He decided he needed to alter his presentation instead of repeating the same approach. Waller first wore the tights during the Royal Rumble match. Roman Reigns approached him afterward and told him "Hey, that’s the look. You look like a champion now."
Waller committed to keeping the tights based on that feedback. Upon returning to NXT he determined that elements like leopard shirts no longer fit his evolved persona. Waller stated that the previous vibe represented an old version of himself and that he now feels comfortable being more serious.
Story timeline · 5 reports
- Grayson Waller Says NXT Return Wasn't a DemotionGrayson Waller returned to NXT earlier this year and cut a pipe bomb style promo.
- Grayson Waller Explains Risky NXT ReturnGrayson Waller said Shawn Michaels asked him to return to NXT and gave him the choice rather than ordering the move.
- Grayson Waller Explains Switch To Wrestling TightsGrayson Waller ditched his boxing shorts for traditional tights upon returning to NXT earlier this year.
- Grayson Waller Explains Switch to Wrestling TightsGrayson Waller ditched his boxing shorts for traditional wrestling tights upon returning to NXT earlier this year, aligning with a more serious character shift…
Sources: Wrestling Observer · Sports Illustrated · Fightful
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