British wrestler Rhio will remain with PROGRESS Wrestling after successfully challenging for the Women’s World Championship, halting speculation about an imminent move to WWE NXT. The match carried high stakes – had Rhio lost to champion Nina Samuels at PROGRESS Wrestling’s Super Strong Style 16 event, she would have been forced to leave the promotion.
The outcome follows WWE’s reported strong interest in Rhio after her standout performance during the company’s London tryouts in March. Multiple sources indicated WWE officials gave the British independent star “heavy attention” during the evaluation process, fueling speculation about a potential NXT contract offer.
By defeating Samuels, Rhio not only retains her PROGRESS status but becomes the new Women’s World Champion. Following her victory, she announced PROGRESS will host a women’s edition of its prestigious Super Strong Style tournament in 2025.
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The result suggests Rhio may be committing to PROGRESS despite WWE’s apparent interest, though wrestling contracts often include notice periods that could allow for future negotiations. WWE’s European talent scouts have been actively recruiting, with the London tryouts part of their ongoing efforts to strengthen NXT’s international roster.
Rhio is STAYING in PROGRESS Wrestling as our Women’s World Champion!#SSS16 pic.twitter.com/Ol81WwvbgV
— PROGRESS Wrestling (@ThisIs_Progress) May 4, 2025
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