One of the most promising NXT performers of the past, Duke Hudson, formerly called Brendan Vink, has posted his personal views concerning the potential that the Chase U faction had and why he feels that this group was never given an opportunity to audition in the main WWE roster. However, in a recent interview with That Sweet Pop, Hudson pointed out that Chase U would have all the tools to succeed in Raw or SmackDown, but things and the fact that another similar act existed could have prevented their call-up.
A Full-course Dinner and Now on the Stage.
Hudson, who was the key component of the group, together with Andre Chase and Thea Hail, termed the three as a full package to fit the core, which was the main roster.
We saw ourselves as the group, as the package, Chase U, myself, Chase, and Thea. The three, only, they said, Hudson explained. People would walk in and out… but it’s the three of us, since it is a package that sells. That was the deal. Please do take us to the main roster, to us.
Hudson said there was charisma, chemistry, and crowd connection that Chase U needed to be visible on the largest stage in WWE.
The Alpha Academy Comparison
Hudson suggested that WWE’s creative hesitation may have stemmed from the existence of Alpha Academy, the comedic faction led by Chad Gable. While emphasizing there was “no beef” between the two groups, he noted the creative similarities between their gimmicks could have been a roadblock.
“At the same time, they had Alpha Academy, which was trying to figure out what they were,” Hudson said. “I’m not saying they did anything we were doing, but it’s like you’ve already got these three or four guys you’re paying more money who are doing a similar thing. So, they stuck with that and looked for something else for us.”
Unshaken Belief in Chase U’s Value
Despite the missed opportunity, Hudson remains confident in the group’s ability to succeed on the main roster.
“Do I think Chase U had main roster potential? Absolutely. I think any fan that would disagree with that doesn’t understand pro wrestling,” he asserted. “We had a place, even if it was just making your guys, your favorites, look good for the next three to five years, we were the best at that.”
Chase U’s Legacy in NXT
During their NXT run, Chase U enjoyed significant success. Hudson and Chase captured the NXT Tag Team Championship, while their “student section” became a beloved fixture of NXT programming. However, the faction’s dissolution came after Chase lost storyline control of the “university” in a high-stakes match. This narrative twist coincided with the unfortunate 2025 releases of Hudson and Riley Osborne, marking the end of Chase U’s journey.
My Take
Duke Hudson’s reflections highlight an often-overlooked reality of WWE’s creative process: timing and overlap can sometimes limit opportunities, even for talented acts. Chase U combined humor, charisma, and solid wrestling with a unique classroom gimmick that resonated deeply with fans.
Hudson’s theory regarding Alpha Academy is both practical and convincing. WWE rarely wants two similar acts running side by side, and while Chase U had its own charm, the overlap with Alpha Academy may have cost them a main roster call-up.
In hindsight, Chase U’s absence from WWE’s biggest stage feels like a missed opportunity. They had proven their entertainment value, their ability to elevate other stars, and their capacity to connect with audiences. Hudson’s passion underscores what fans already knew—Chase U deserved more.
