Few within WWE and the NXT talent roster knew ahead of time of Spears’ return, with one NXT Superstar even mentioning how some were in “complete shock” upon seeing him tonight. He was not listed on internal run sheets or documents heading into the show behind-the-scenes, outside of someone referred to as “quote man” appearing during Ridge Holland’s segment.
In terms of rehearsals, it was Shawn Michaels who played Spears’ role in the Holland segment earlier today to prepare for tonight’s show.
Spears was reportedly signed to a new deal to return to WWE NXT before the first of the three “Three Faces” cryptic vignettes aired.
He was hidden backstage before coming out tonight and upon making his return appearance in the ring on the show, was well-received coming through the curtain afterwards.
