Full Breakdown
NXT Talents Charlie Dempsey and Harlem Lewis Set for Pro Wrestling NOAH Debut
9/22/2025, 8:59:55 PM
Upcoming Event at Korakuen Hall
NXT wrestlers Charlie Dempsey and Harlem Lewis are scheduled to compete for Pro Wrestling NOAH on September 23, 2025, at Tokyo's Korakuen Hall. This event is particularly significant as it will also host the finals of the prestigious 2025 N-1 Victory tournament, providing both wrestlers a prominent platform to showcase their skills.
Charlie Dempsey's Experience and Background
Charlie Dempsey, a member of NXT’s No Quarter Catch Crew, is recognized for his technical wrestling prowess. This upcoming appearance will mark his debut for Pro Wrestling NOAH, although he has previously competed in Japan for All Japan Pro Wrestling in January 2024, where he unsuccessfully challenged for the Triple Crown Heavyweight Championship. Dempsey's submission-heavy style is anticipated to resonate well with NOAH's audience, potentially leading to a breakout performance.
Harlem Lewis: A Rising Star
Joining Dempsey is Harlem Lewis, a rookie in his first year as a professional wrestler. Lewis, whose real name is Vincent Whiney, has yet to debut on NXT's main television show but has gained experience through appearances on WWE’s reality series LFG, NXT Level Up, and EVOLVE events. In 2024, he faced Odyssey Jones on Monday Night Raw, providing him with valuable exposure against established talent. This trip to Japan represents a significant opportunity for Lewis to prove himself on an international stage.
WWE and NOAH's Collaborative Relationship
The participation of Dempsey and Lewis in NOAH is part of an ongoing talent exchange between WWE and the Japanese promotion. Over recent years, several WWE stars, including Shinsuke Nakamura, AJ Styles, Omos, and Josh Briggs, have competed in NOAH events, while NOAH's Yoshiki Inamura has showcased his talent in NXT. This collaboration enriches both promotions, blending WWE's sports-entertainment style with NOAH's hard-hitting wrestling approach.
Official Statements & Responses
During the recent NXT Homecoming special, Dempsey informed his stablemate Wren Sinclair about his upcoming trip to Japan, stating he would be "going away for a month." NOAH officially announced the participation of both Dempsey and Lewis, expressing excitement about their involvement in the September 23 event.
Criticism & Opposition
While the collaboration between WWE and NOAH has been largely positive, some critics argue that the frequent exchanges may dilute the unique styles of both promotions. Concerns have been raised about the potential overshadowing of local talent in Japan as WWE wrestlers gain more exposure.
Verbatim Quotes
“Two wrestlers from NXT in America to visit. We are pleased to announce that two wrestlers from NXT in America, Harlem Lewis and Charlie Dempsey, will be attending the Korakuen Hall event on September 23.” — Pro Wrestling NOAH
“going away for a month” — Charlie Dempsey, during NXT Homecoming
What's Next
As the event approaches, fans are eager to see how Dempsey and Lewis will perform in NOAH, with many speculating whether this experience will significantly impact their careers or serve primarily as a learning opportunity.
