WWE NXT has introduced a new theme song as the developmental brand continues its build toward Halloween Havoc, but the musical change has already generated significant criticism from sections of the fanbase.
The new track, “Shabang” by Drake, has been selected as the official theme song for NXT, replacing the previous musical identity associated with the Tuesday night program.
WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels addressed the change on Twitter, sharing a post about the new theme. However, the announcement quickly attracted a wave of negative reactions from fans who questioned whether the song was a suitable fit for a wrestling show.
Several fans expressed a preference for the rock-oriented music that has historically been associated with WWE programming, while others argued that the new track lacked the energy they expect from a wrestling entrance or show opener.
Among the reactions were:
«“what happened to the WWE rock theme music I grew up listening to?”»
Another fan recalled some of the rock acts previously used by WWE and wrote:
«“Remember when we had papa roach, nickleback, Marilyn Manson, drowning pool to make the intro awesome. Now we got hot garbage”»
Some commenters focused specifically on the atmosphere they felt a wrestling theme should create:
«“You want your intro song to get the audience hyped. This doesn’t do that at all”»
Others similarly criticized the musical direction:
«“More lame hip hop that doesn’t get you pumped for a night of wrestling. At least we still have the show-stealing superstars.”»
Michaels also received a blunt response from one fan:
«“rare L from you shawn”»
The criticism extended to comparisons with NXT 2.0, with one viewer writing:
«“2.0 had better soundtracks than this, but we’re making shows for 12 year olds now I guess”»
Another commenter said:
«“I usually don’t comment on anything but this is absolutely horrible.”»
The use of a Drake song also appeared to be a sticking point for some viewers. One fan stated:
«“Guess I’ve seen my last episode of NXT for a while. I can’t stand @Drake“»
Calls for a return to a more energetic rock sound were also made:
«“this song is lame, bad, not appropriate. More rock or upbeat music is needed to pump you up for a show!”»
One particularly harsh reaction compared the new theme unfavorably with several former WWE characters and gimmicks:
«“Absolutely the worst theme in the entire history of wrestling. Rather have Issac Yankem or TL Hopper or Brie Mode over this… Who… Actually likes this?”»
Other reactions were similarly direct, including:
«“The song is awful and doesn’t fit in the slightest.”»
And:
«“Drake song… automatic L”»
The response illustrates the strong attachment many longtime WWE viewers have to the music used to introduce its programming. While WWE has frequently changed themes as its brands have evolved, NXT’s latest selection has prompted a particularly vocal debate among fans over what style of music best represents the show.
For now, “Shabang” will serve as NXT’s theme as the brand moves closer to Halloween Havoc, with the online reaction demonstrating that the change has already become a talking point among viewers.
Video: https://x.com/ShawnMichaels/status/2107562194061644049?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E2107562194061644049%7Ctwgr%5E7439504da27ec1cee8a86f35144f358a200fe951%7Ctwcon%5Es1_c10&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ewrestlingnews.com%2Fnews%2Fwwe%2Ffans-slam-wwe-over-new-nxt-theme-song-by-drake
