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NXT GM Shakeup: Chance Lorance Steps In

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Thursday, February 5th 2026 at 1:08 GMT by Wrestling News
      Locales: Connecticut, N/A, UNITED STATES

Orlando, FL - February 5th, 2026 - The landscape of WWE NXT has shifted slightly with the appointment of Channing 'Chance' Lorance as interim General Manager, following Shawn Michaels' temporary departure. While the move is intended to provide stability during Michaels' absence, it's sparked a playful, yet insightful, reaction from former WWE personality Robert Stone (formerly Isaiah 'Swerve' Scott), igniting speculation about potential futures for talent both within and outside the company.

Lorance, a long-time backstage figure known for his organizational skills and understanding of the WWE system, is a logical choice for interim leadership. Michaels, a veteran performer and respected authority, left the role to focus on creative consultation, a move welcomed by many hoping for a revitalization of main roster storytelling. However, Stone's humorous online response - a post declaring his candidacy for the GM position, complete with a promise of "through the roof" ratings - has quickly become a talking point among wrestling fans and industry analysts.

Stone, released from WWE in November 2021 after a stint managing Aliyah and Ricky Boney, has since been active on the independent wrestling circuit, proving his continued passion for the industry. His social media post isn't merely a joke; it's a subtle signal of his desire to return to the WWE fold, potentially in a capacity beyond on-screen management. This raises a fascinating question: could Stone, with his proven charisma and understanding of modern wrestling audiences, actually be a viable candidate for a leadership role within NXT?

The current NXT environment is a breeding ground for future WWE stars. It's a place where innovative storytelling and character development are prioritized, often diverging from the more formulaic approaches seen on Raw and SmackDown. This focus on creativity demands a GM who understands the nuances of the developmental system - someone who can nurture talent, promote compelling feuds, and build a strong brand identity. While Lorance brings valuable internal experience, Stone offers something different: a fresh perspective informed by his time outside of WWE, coupled with a strong connection to the current generation of wrestlers.

Since his departure, Stone has successfully carved out a niche for himself in various promotions, demonstrating adaptability and a commitment to the business. This experience could prove invaluable in shaping NXT's direction, particularly in identifying and promoting talent that appeals to a wider audience. He understands the importance of social media engagement, a skill increasingly crucial for building fan bases and generating buzz around wrestlers. His own playful interaction with the Lorance announcement is testament to this.

However, bringing Stone into a management position wouldn't be without its potential challenges. His past release from WWE raises questions about how seamlessly he would integrate back into the corporate structure. Additionally, NXT has undergone significant changes in recent years, shifting from a more developmental focused brand to a more established third brand. Balancing the need for nurturing young talent with the demands of weekly television programming is a delicate act, and Stone would need to demonstrate a clear understanding of this dynamic.

The response to Stone's post highlights the enduring affection many fans hold for his work. His charismatic personality and natural ability to connect with audiences were always evident during his time in WWE. While a GM role might seem like a significant departure from his previous on-screen work, it's a logical progression for a talented individual who clearly cares about the wrestling business.

The appointment of Lorance is a safe, short-term solution. But the ripple effect of his appointment, particularly Stone's reaction, is forcing a conversation about the future of NXT and the potential for bringing fresh, outside perspectives into the WWE system. It remains to be seen whether Stone's playful application will be taken seriously, but his ambition is clear, and his qualifications, given his post-WWE experience, shouldn't be dismissed. The situation offers a compelling narrative thread as WWE continues to navigate the evolving landscape of professional wrestling.