Trick Williams has officially made the leap from NXT to WWE's main roster, and the rising star is already validating the wisdom imparted by his former mentor, Shawn Michaels. In a recent candid interview, Williams confirmed that every piece of advice the WWE Hall of Famer shared with him has proven to be remarkably accurate as he navigates the challenges of performing on SmackDown.
The transition from developmental territories to WWE's flagship programming represents a pivotal moment in any wrestler's career. For Williams, this journey culminated in December 2025 when he emerged on the main roster as a free agent, following a successful tenure entertaining audiences in both NXT and TNA. His official assignment to the SmackDown brand in early January marked the beginning of a new chapter, one that saw him waste no time in making his presence felt with an impressive in-ring debut against the high-flying Rey Fenix just a week later.
During his appearance on the popular In The Kliq podcast, Williams opened up about the guidance he received from Michaels, who served as his boss during his time in NXT. While the specifics of their conversations remain confidential, Williams didn't hesitate to express his gratitude and agreement with Michaels' insights.
"He did. He's had a lot of advice for me, and I can't really share it on camera, but all I can say is he's been 100% right," Williams stated emphatically. This endorsement from the young superstar speaks volumes about the value of mentorship in professional wrestling, particularly when it comes from someone with Michaels' legendary status and experience.
The wrestling industry has long recognized the importance of veteran guidance for emerging talent. Michaels, who transitioned from in-ring legend to backstage executive, has developed a reputation for nurturing the next generation of WWE superstars. His role as Senior Vice President of Talent Development Creative has positioned him as a crucial figure in preparing NXT talent for the bright lights and intense pressure of main roster competition.
Williams' confirmation that Michaels' advice has been completely accurate suggests that the Hall of Famer's understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level remains as sharp as ever. While the exact nature of their discussions remains private, it's likely that Michaels covered topics ranging from performance psychology to brand management, from in-ring psychology to the importance of connecting with a broader audience.
The timing of Williams' call-up holds special significance, as it coincided with his fiancée Lash Legend also receiving her main roster opportunity. The couple's simultaneous promotion to SmackDown represents a rare and heartwarming moment in WWE history, allowing them to support each other through the unique challenges that come with increased visibility and responsibility.
"It's unreal," Williams remarked about sharing this milestone with Legend. The personal and professional alignment adds an extra layer of meaning to his main roster journey, providing a built-in support system as both superstars adapt to their new environment.
Looking ahead, Williams has already set his sights on the biggest stage in professional wrestling: WrestleMania 42. When asked about the possibility of competing at the Showcase of the Immortals, his enthusiasm was palpable.
"Man, it means everything to me. You don't want to miss it," Williams declared, his signature charisma on full display. He seamlessly transitioned into promotional mode, encouraging fans to secure their tickets through Ticketmaster and promising an unforgettable experience.
"This is a road to WrestleMania, this is a road to whoop that around the world. Go get your tickets off Ticketmaster. Your dollars will make you holler. Come see us, let's whoop that. Let's talk about it — Ticketmaster. Find your boy," Williams proclaimed, blending his natural showmanship with savvy marketing instincts.
This promotional savvy demonstrates another aspect of what likely made Michaels' advice so valuable. Understanding how to promote oneself, engage with fans, and drive ticket sales represents a crucial skill set for modern WWE superstars who are expected to be both performers and brand ambassadors.
The mention of Booker T's recent comparison of a current WWE star to Shawn Michaels adds another layer of context to Williams' situation. While the article doesn't specify which star Booker T was discussing, the comparison underscores the enduring legacy Michaels has created and the high bar he sets for technical excellence and charismatic performance.
Williams' journey from NXT to SmackDown exemplifies the modern WWE talent pipeline in action. His time in TNA, where he captured the World Championship, provided him with valuable experience on a major stage, but WWE's main roster presents an entirely different set of challenges and opportunities. The larger audiences, increased media scrutiny, and integration into WWE's complex storytelling ecosystem require a different skill set than what works in developmental or alternative promotions.
The fact that Michaels' advice has proven so accurate suggests that the WWE Performance Center and NXT system are successfully preparing talent for these challenges. It also highlights the importance of individualized mentorship, as Michaels was able to provide guidance specifically tailored to Williams' strengths, weaknesses, and personality.
As Williams continues to establish himself on SmackDown, fans and industry observers will be watching closely to see how he develops. His debut against Rey Fenix showcased his athletic abilities and in-ring prowess, but his long-term success will depend on his ability to connect with the WWE Universe, develop compelling storylines, and consistently deliver memorable performances.
The endorsement from Michaels serves as a powerful vote of confidence, but it also raises expectations. When a legend of Michaels' caliber provides guidance that proves 100% accurate, it creates a standard that Williams must continue to meet and exceed.
For now, Williams appears to be taking everything in stride, maintaining his signature confidence while acknowledging the wisdom of those who came before him. His ability to balance respect for veteran advice with his own unique personality and vision will likely determine his trajectory in the months and years to come.
As the road to WrestleMania 42 continues to unfold, Trick Williams stands as a testament to the effectiveness of WWE's talent development system and the enduring value of mentorship in professional wrestling. With Shawn Michaels in his corner—at least in spirit—and Lash Legend by his side, the young superstar is poised to make the most of his main roster opportunity and prove that he belongs among WWE's elite.
The wrestling world will be watching to see if Williams can follow through on his ambitious promises and deliver the kind of performances that make fans holler, all while validating the legendary advice that set him on this path. If his early success is any indication, Shawn Michaels' confidence in his protégé was well-placed, and Trick Williams may indeed become the next big thing to emerge from NXT's hallowed halls.