Top Wrestler Ruled Out As Roxanne Perez's Next Challenger

Roxanne Perez is the current NXT Women's Champion, ready to take on all challengers. While it's unclear who she will face next, one big name is ruled out. Although Giulia is on her way to WWE, she won't make Heatwave after all.

NXT Heatwave will take place on Sunday, July 7, 2024, at the Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, as part of Money in the Bank weekend. Dave Meltzer noted in the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, "Regarding Giulia, she is definitely not wrestling Roxanne Perez on the NXT show on 7/7 in Toronto."

Sources in Japan, and one in NXT, had denied the story about Giulia at Heatwave from the beginning. The fact is that she is injured and had surgery on her wrist and won’t be ready by that date.

Perez recently defeated Jordynne Grace to retain her title at Battleground in the UFC Apex. This win has boosted her status and confidence as a heel for the brand. The absence of Giulia at Heatwave is disappointing for some fans, as it was widely expected that the breakout STARDOM wrestler would participate. Giulia, who left to help Rossy Ogawa start his Marigold promotion, was confirmed as an official WWE NXT Superstar at WWE NXT's Stand & Deliver event.

Marigold provided an official statement about the situation: "Giulia’s right wrist was injured in yesterday's inaugural match. Today, her doctor examined her and diagnosed her with a fracture. Unfortunately, she will miss the Hana Kimura show on the 23rd, and upcoming shows for the time being. We apologize and thank you for understanding."

There is currently no timescale for her return, but it's expected to be three to nine weeks at a minimum, potentially longer depending on the severity.