Fans wouldn't have been blamed for assuming that NXT would suffer once Vince McMahon would gut out the so-called developmental brand to bring its best stars to the main roster.
Naturally, that's something that would continue to worry Triple H. Although he's managed to give a fantastic platform to superstars that thrive in NXT, not all of them go on to have the finest of careers on Monday Night RAW or SmackDown LIVE.
NXT SUCCESS
Just ask The Ascension.
Still, seeing the likes of Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, Shinsuke Nakamura and Finn Balor all leave NXT hasn't had a massively negative impact on the brand. Instead, the Performance Center continues to churn out some homegrown talent while The Game is actively scouting other promotions for the biggest names on the independent scene.
A big sign which clearly shows that NXT is growing in popularity to this day is the excitement surrounding the upcoming NXT TakeOver: Chicago event, just one day before Money in the Bank. Based on what history tells us, though, the NXT event could outshine the main roster as stealing the limelight is nothing new for NXT stars.
Fans are always going to have their personal favourites from NXT; it's why there's such an outpour of support when they do get called up with Andrade 'Cien' Almas a prime example of that. Now, Balor has spoken out and revealed which two exciting NXT stars the WWE fans need to keep an eye on moving forward - and fans are going to love his choices.
BALOR'S PICKS
When speaking to Mike Jones of DC 101 to promote Sunday's Money in the Bank event, Balor claimed that Velveteen Dream is doing amazing work, while Adam Cole of the Undisputed Era is another one to watch out for in NXT.
According to Rajah, said: "NXT is something that is very close to my heart, I've spent my fondest years there, and something I keep an eye on still.
"Since I've left there, Velveteen Dream is doing amazing. Adam Cole is one to watch as well.
"He is doing some amazing stuff down there."
Hearing praise is nothing new for both men.
Recently, John Cena revealed that out of Ricochet, Cole and Velveteen Dream, he'd prefer to face the former Tough Enough star as he seems to be 'the one.'
Cole, on the other hand, has drawn universal praise long before he joined the WWE. The fact that he's been able to continue that momentum and showcase why he's one of the most exceptional talents around as the leader of the Undisputed Era shows why he deserves to be the North American Champion.
If fans already couldn't wait to see both men impress when they eventually move up to the main roster, hearing that somebody like Balor is also a fan will only increase the level of excitement.
What do you make of Finn Balor claiming Velveteen Dream and Adam Cole being the two NXT stars WWE fans need to look out for? Have YOUR say in the comments section below.