WWE Urged to Exercise Patience with Zilla Fatu’s Bloodline Integration

Matt Hardy urges WWE to exercise patience with Zilla Fatu’s integration into the Bloodline following his NXT debut.

After months of speculation, Zilla Fatu—the son of the late WWE legend Umaga—made his NXT debut on the August 11, 2026 episode. While fans eagerly anticipate his Bloodline integration, Matt Hardy argues that Fatu should remain in the developmental brand for the time being.

On his The Extreme Life of Matt Hardy Podcast, the reigning TNA World Tag Team Champion asserted that Zilla Fatu would benefit from an extended NXT run to solidify his identity as an individual competitor.

“I think right now, I’m happy to see him in NXT. He could use a strong run in NXT to truly establish himself as Zilla Fatu, as an individual character—not just another name in the Bloodline mix. Once immersed in that storyline, it becomes difficult to stand out. I believe a solid NXT foundation would let him shine on his own. He’s a very talented guy,” Matt Hardy began.

“He can also master the nuances of television wrestling, gaining valuable experience working the WWE product away from the overwhelming pressure of main roster spotlights. I believe that environment would be incredibly beneficial for him. Very proud of him. Lots of love for Zilla Fatu,” Hardy said.

Matt Hardy Highlights Zilla Fatu’s WWE Prospects

Matt Hardy recently reflected on his bond with the late Umaga, noting that his brother Jeff shared a particularly close friendship with the WWE icon. He also recalled knowing Zilla Fatu since childhood and teaming with him on the independent circuit, expressing genuine excitement for the 26-year-old’s future in WWE.

“We met Zilla shortly after he was born, and getting to know him—along with the things his father had shared about us—was meaningful. It was his dream to team up with us, and while on the independents, we even competed in a six-man tag with him the night before WrestleCade, which proved great. We also faced him in House of Glory. Working with him repeatedly was a cool experience, and he ultimately called that promotion home. He’s got a good soul, and while life has had its share of highs and lows, including his time away, everyone faces challenges. I wish him nothing but the best,” Hardy continued.

Hardy on Zilla Fatu’s WWE Path

Regarding Zilla Fatu’s potential trajectory within WWE, Hardy emphasized that much depends on his attitude and work ethic. “At the beginning, you go with the flow and make the most of what you’re given,” he noted. “Just maintain a good attitude, stay positive and optimistic, and bust your ass—work as hard as you can.”

On the subject of a main roster call-up, Hardy believes Fatu should spend several more months in NXT to firmly establish his own identity. He warned that rushing him into the Bloodline too soon risks getting lost amid the lineage’s many standout performers.

“I think he’d benefit from a longer run in NXT,” Hardy said. “I’d like to see him there for a few months to really establish himself and create an identity people recognize. I want fans to know who Zilla Fatu is apart from the Bloodline narrative. I believe he can do that. Jumping straight in risks getting lost in the shuffle, given the depth of talent among the Samoans.”

“With so many great Samoans in the mix, it’s tough to truly stand out,” Hardy admitted. “In NXT, I think he can carve out his own identity and stand on his own merits, which would only make him more valuable should he eventually join the broader Bloodline story,” he concluded.

Source link