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{{Short description|American football player and professional wrestler (born 1981)}}
{{other people}}
{{other people}}
{{lead too short|date=March 2019}}
{{Infobox professional wrestler
{{Infobox professional wrestler
|name = Percy Watson
|name = Percy Watson
|image = Percy Watson in London.jpg
|image = Percy Watson in London.jpg
|alt =
|alt =
|caption = Watson in May 2013
|caption = Watson in 2013
|birth_name = Nicholas Christopher McNeil<ref name="OWOW">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profiles/p/percy-watson.html|title=OWOW profile|access-date=2010-06-06|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref>
|birth_name = Nicholas Christopher McNeil<ref name="OWOW">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profiles/p/percy-watson.html|title=OWOW profile|access-date=2010-06-06|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref>
|names = Nick McNeil<ref name="profightdb.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/percy-watson-6289.html|title=The Internet Wrestling Database profile}}</ref><br />Chris McNeil<ref name="profightdb.com"/><br />'''Percy Watson'''<ref name=WWEbio>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/raw/percywatson/bio/|title=WWE bio}}</ref><br />Cordell Porter<br />'''The Unknown Hand'''
|names = Nick McNeil<ref name="profightdb.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/percy-watson-6289.html|title=The Internet Wrestling Database profile}}</ref><br />Chris McNeil<ref name="profightdb.com"/><br />'''Percy Watson'''<ref name=WWEbio>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/raw/percywatson/bio/|title=WWE bio}}</ref><br />Cordell Porter<br />'''The Unknown Hand'''
|height = 6 ft 6 in (198 cm)
|height = 6 ft 3 in (191 cm)
|weight = {{convert|245|lb|kg|abbr=on}}<ref name="OWOW"/><ref name=WWEbio/>
|weight = {{convert|245|lb|kg|abbr=on}}<ref name="OWOW"/><ref name=WWEbio/>
|birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1981|08|19|mf=y}}<ref name="NFL Player Profile">{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/players/nickmcneil/profile?id=MCN580628|title=NFL Player Profile|access-date=2010-06-08|publisher=NFL}}</ref>
|birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1981|08|19|mf=y}}<ref name="NFL Player Profile">{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/players/nickmcneil/profile?id=MCN580628|title=NFL Player Profile|access-date=2010-06-08|publisher=NFL}}</ref>
|death_date =
|death_date =
|alma_mater = [[Western Carolina University]]
|alma_mater = [[Western Carolina University]]
|birth_place = [[Leland, North Carolina]],<br>[[United States]]<ref name="WCUMagazine">{{cite web|url=http://magazine.wcu.edu/2011/06/alter-ego/|title=Western Carolina story}}</ref>
|birth_place = [[Leland, North Carolina]], U.S.<ref name="WCUMagazine">{{cite web|url=http://magazine.wcu.edu/2011/06/alter-ego/|title=Western Carolina story}}</ref>
|death_place =
|death_place =
|resides = [[Wilmington, North Carolina]],<br>[[United States]]<ref name="OWOW"/>
|billed = [[South Beach]], [[Florida]]<ref name=WWEbio/>
|billed = [[South Beach]], [[Florida]]<ref name=WWEbio/>
|trainer =Florida Championship Wrestling
|trainer = [[Florida Championship Wrestling|FCW]]
|debut = 2009<ref name="OWOW"/>
|debut = 2009<ref name="OWOW"/>
|retired =
|retired =
|child=|children=1}}
|child=|children=1}}
'''Nicholas Christopher McNeil''' (born August 19, 1981), better known by his [[ring name]] '''Percy Watson''', is an American [[Professional wrestling|professional wrestler]], [[Professional wrestling#Color commentator|commentator]], and former [[Professional football (gridiron)|professional football]] player. He is best known for his time with [[WWE]] as a commentator on the [[NXT (WWE brand)|NXT]] brand, [[205 Live]], and [[WWE Main Event]].
'''Nicholas Christopher McNeil''' (born August 19, 1981), better known by his [[ring name]] '''Percy Watson''', is an American [[Professional wrestling|professional wrestler]], [[Professional wrestling#Color commentator|commentator]], and former [[Professional football (gridiron)|professional football]] player. He is best known for his time with [[WWE]] as an in-ring performer and later as a commentator on [[NXT (WWE brand)|NXT]], [[205 Live (WWE brand)|205 Live]], and [[WWE Main Event]].


==College and professional football career==
==College and professional football career==
Nick McNeil graduated from [[Western Carolina University]] with a [[bachelor's degree]] in computer information systems.<ref name="OWOW"/> He was a three time All-Southern Conference selection at left defensive end for the Catamounts. As a [[Sophomore year|sophomore]], he led the [[Southern Conference]] in [[Quarterback sack|sacks]] with 10. As a [[Junior (education)|junior]], he led the conference in [[fumble]] recoveries. He finished his collegiate career tied for fourth all-time on the WCU [[Tackle (football move)|tackles-for-loss]] list with 45. He finished sixth on the WCU all-time sack list with 18.5.<ref name = catamountsports>[http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/042604aaa.html Brian Gaither, Nick McNeil and Michale Spicer Sign NFL Free Agent Contracts] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120326103912/http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/042604aaa.html |date=2012-03-26 }}. Retrieved 2010-6-29</ref> McNeil had experience in [[Professional football (gridiron)|professional football]] from 2004-2006, spending time on the [[National Football League]] practice squads of the [[Green Bay Packers]] and [[Washington Redskins]], as well as being on the offseason rosters of the [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] and [[New York Giants]].<ref name="OWOW"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsforecaster.com/nfl/player/6613/trans|title=Nick McNeil Stats, Profile, Bio, Analysis and More|website=SportsForecaster.com|access-date=December 23, 2019}}</ref>
Nick McNeil graduated from [[Western Carolina University]] with a [[bachelor's degree]] in computer information systems.<ref name="OWOW"/> He was a three time All-Southern Conference selection at left defensive end for the Catamounts. As a [[Sophomore year|sophomore]], he led the [[Southern Conference]] in [[Quarterback sack|sacks]] with 10. As a [[Junior (education year)|junior]], he led the conference in [[fumble]] recoveries. He finished his collegiate career tied for fourth all-time on the WCU [[Tackle (football move)|tackles-for-loss]] list with 45. He finished sixth on the WCU all-time sack list with 18.5.<ref name = catamountsports>[http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/042604aaa.html Brian Gaither, Nick McNeil and Michale Spicer Sign NFL Free Agent Contracts] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120326103912/http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/042604aaa.html |date=2012-03-26 }}. Retrieved 2010-6-29</ref> McNeil had experience in [[Professional football (gridiron)|professional football]] from 2004-2006, spending time on the [[National Football League]] practice squads of the [[Green Bay Packers]] and [[Washington Redskins]], as well as being on the offseason rosters of the [[Pittsburgh Steelers]] and [[New York Giants]].<ref name="OWOW"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsforecaster.com/nfl/player/6613/trans|title=Nick McNeil Stats, Profile, Bio, Analysis and More|website=SportsForecaster.com|access-date=December 23, 2019}}</ref> He was promoted to the Redskins' active roster on January 9, 2006, during the playoffs, but he did not play in any games.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://web.archive.org/web/20230912174310/https://catamountsports.com/sports/2006/1/9/211723291.aspx | title=WCU FOOTBALL NEWS: McNeil on Redskins Roster; Cats to Play Georgia in 2007; Former Cats Still Alive in NFL Playoffs | publisher=catamountsports.com | date=January 10, 2006 | accessdate=April 14, 2024}}</ref>


==Professional wrestling career==
==Professional wrestling career==
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====Florida Championship Wrestling (2009–2011)====
====Florida Championship Wrestling (2009–2011)====
McNeil signed a developmental deal with World Wrestling Entertainment in 2009 and began training with their developmental territory, [[Florida Championship Wrestling]] (FCW). He made his FCW debut in September 2009 under his real name Nick McNeil, however shortly after that he tweaked his name to Chris McNeil. On October 1, 2009, he re-introduced himself as Percy Watson along with his [[tag team]] partner [[Darren Young]] and they called themselves the South Beach Party Boys.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fcw/_2009/|title=Florida Championship Wrestling results|access-date=2010-06-06|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref>
McNeil signed a developmental deal with World Wrestling Entertainment in 2009 and began training with their [[developmental territory]], [[Florida Championship Wrestling]] (FCW). He made his FCW debut in September 2009 under his real name Nick McNeil, however shortly after that he tweaked his name to Chris McNeil. On October 1, 2009, he re-introduced himself as Percy Watson along with his [[tag team]] partner [[Fred Rosser|Darren Young]] and they called themselves the South Beach Party Boys.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fcw/_2009/|title=Florida Championship Wrestling results|access-date=2010-06-06|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref>


====NXT (2010–2013)====
====NXT (2010–2013)====
McNeil participated in the second season of ''[[WWE NXT|NXT]]'' under the name of '''Percy Watson''', with [[Montel Vontavious Porter]] as his mentor.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/06/01/14222371.html|title=WWE NXT: Barrett wins show's first season|date=2010-06-01|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=2010-06-04|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_41691.shtml|title=WWE News: NXT Results – Season Two announced, Pro & Rookie pairings revealed|date=2010-06-04|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=2010-06-01|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Watson made his debut on the June 8, 2010 episode of ''NXT'' with the nickname "Showtime" Percy Watson, teaming with MVP and defeating [[Bray Wyatt|Husky Harris]] and [[Cody Rhodes]].<ref name=NXT060810>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1276069263|title=WWE NXT Results - 6/8/10|date=2010-06-08|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|access-date=2010-06-18|work=WrestleView}}</ref> Watson was noted for being fun,<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE NXT ROUNDTABLE REVIEWS 7/27: Caldwell, Mayer, Parks rate and review|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42780.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> energetic<ref name=Glasses>{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=KELLER'S WWE NXT REPORT 6/8: Follow-up to the big Raw-NXT angle, plus season two Rookies introduced by Pros, some standouts emerge already|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_41857.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> and similar to [[Eddie Murphy]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|title=WWE NXT Results - 7/6/10|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1278520324|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> As part of his gimmick, Watson wore red glasses and even wrestled with his glasses on.<ref name=Glasses />
McNeil participated in the [[WWE NXT (seasons 1–5)#Season 2|second season]] of ''[[WWE NXT|NXT]]'' under the name of '''Percy Watson''', with [[Montel Vontavious Porter]] as his mentor.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/06/01/14222371.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629045655/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/06/01/14222371.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Barrett wins show's first season|date=2010-06-01|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=2010-06-04|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_41691.shtml|title=WWE News: NXT Results – Season Two announced, Pro & Rookie pairings revealed|date=2010-06-04|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=2010-06-01|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Watson made his debut on the June 8, 2010 episode of ''NXT'' with the nickname "Showtime" Percy Watson, teaming with MVP and defeating [[Bray Wyatt|Husky Harris]] and [[Cody Rhodes]].<ref name=NXT060810>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1276069263|title=WWE NXT Results - 6/8/10|date=2010-06-08|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|access-date=2010-06-18|work=WrestleView}}</ref> Watson was noted for being fun,<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE NXT ROUNDTABLE REVIEWS 7/27: Caldwell, Mayer, Parks rate and review|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42780.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> energetic<ref name=Glasses>{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=KELLER'S WWE NXT REPORT 6/8: Follow-up to the big Raw-NXT angle, plus season two Rookies introduced by Pros, some standouts emerge already|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_41857.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> and similar to [[Eddie Murphy]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|title=WWE NXT Results - 7/6/10|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1278520324|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> As part of his gimmick, Watson wore red glasses and even wrestled with his glasses on.<ref name=Glasses />


In the ''NXT'' poll on the June 29 episode, Watson was ranked in second place, just behind [[Low Ki|Kaval]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 6/29: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 4|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42259.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> On July 6, Watson won the Talk-the-Talk challenge and was rewarded with the chance to host a talk show the following week.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/6: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 5|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42372.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> In his talk show segment, Watson had his Pro MVP as his talk show guest. However, in order to make a statement, Watson tried to set up MVP to receive an attack from the other Rookies, but the other Pros came to MVP's aid.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 6|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42487.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> On the July 20 episode of ''NXT'', Watson was a guest on MVP's VIP Lounge, where he was confronted by MVP about his actions the previous week. The two made amends after a heartfelt apology from Watson.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/20: Complete "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 7|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42621.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> On the July 27 episode of ''NXT'', Watson became the first Rookie to defeat a Pro in a singles match by defeating [[Zack Ryder]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/27: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 8|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42743.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> On the August 17 episode of ''NXT'', Watson was eliminated from the show, finishing fifth overall.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 8/17: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 11|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_43193.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> After Season 2 of ''NXT'', Watson then competed in various dark matches but never appeared on WWE programming.<ref name="OWOW"/>
In the ''NXT'' poll on the June 29 episode, Watson was ranked in second place, just behind [[Low Ki|Kaval]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 6/29: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 4|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42259.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> On July 6, Watson won the Talk-the-Talk challenge and was rewarded with the chance to host a talk show the following week.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/6: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 5|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42372.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> In his talk show segment, Watson had his Pro MVP as his talk show guest. However, in order to make a statement, Watson tried to set up MVP to receive an attack from the other Rookies, but the other Pros came to MVP's aid.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 6|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42487.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> On the July 20 episode of ''NXT'', Watson was a guest on MVP's VIP Lounge, where he was confronted by MVP about his actions the previous week. The two made amends after a heartfelt apology from Watson.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/20: Complete "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 7|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42621.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> On the July 27 episode of ''NXT'', Watson became the first Rookie to defeat a Pro in a singles match by defeating [[Matt Cardona|Zack Ryder]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/27: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 8|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_42743.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> On the August 17 episode of ''NXT'', Watson was eliminated from the show, finishing fifth overall.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 8/17: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 11|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_43193.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> After Season 2 of ''NXT'', Watson then competed in various dark matches but never appeared on WWE programming.<ref name="OWOW"/>


[[File:Percy Watson April 2012.jpg|thumb|right|300px|McNeil as Percy Watson against [[Fandango (wrestler)|Johnny Curtis]] in a match on NXT in 2012.]]
[[File:Percy Watson April 2012.jpg|thumb|right|300px|McNeil as Percy Watson against [[Fandango (wrestler)|Johnny Curtis]] in a match on NXT in 2012.]]
Watson returned on WWE programming on the September 8 episode of ''[[WWE Superstars]]'' without glasses and with a more toned-down gimmick, teaming with [[Titus O'Neil]] in a losing effort against [[Curt Hawkins]] and [[Tyler Reks]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE SUPERSTARS REPORT 9/8: Bryan dominates main event, Fox vs. Tamina, returns & TV debuts & squash matches|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_53100.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> He then redebuted on the fifth season of ''NXT'' not as a Rookie, but as Titus O'Neil's friend and tag team partner.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 9/13: Complete "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 5, Week 28 with Cole Cameo|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53261.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> Watson and O'Neil would enjoy success against [[Ethan Carter III|Derrick Bateman]] and [[Tyson Kidd]],<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 9/13: Alt. perspective review of NXT Week 28, overall show Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53263.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> as well as Bateman and [[JTG]].<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 10/19: Review of NXT Week 33, talk of Rookie Challenges returns, overall show Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_54406.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> However, Watson and O'Neil would find themselves unable to beat Darren Young and JTG.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 9/20: Alt. perspective review of NXT is Showtime Week 29, overall show Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53521.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> Watson would also compete as a singles competitor on NXT, earning wins against the likes of Tyler Reks<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 11/30 - Week 39: Bateman wins & loses, Maxine vs. A. Fox, Showtime vs. Reks|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_55624.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> and [[Heath Slater]].<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 1/18 - Week 46: Wedding interrupted, Titus turns heel, Elvis, out-of-control, destructive, and unproductive Cole commentary|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_57127.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref>
Watson returned on WWE programming on the September 8 episode of ''[[WWE Superstars]]'' without glasses and with a more toned-down gimmick, teaming with [[Titus O'Neil]] in a losing effort against [[Brian Myers|Curt Hawkins]] and [[Gabbi Tuft|Tyler Reks]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE SUPERSTARS REPORT 9/8: Bryan dominates main event, Fox vs. Tamina, returns & TV debuts & squash matches|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwsuperstarsreport/article_53100.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> He then redebuted on the [[NXT Redemption|fifth season]] of ''NXT'' not as a Rookie, but as Titus O'Neil's friend and tag team partner.<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 9/13: Complete "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 5, Week 28 with Cole Cameo|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53261.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 September 2011}}</ref> Watson and O'Neil would enjoy success against [[Ethan Carter III|Derrick Bateman]] and [[Tyson Kidd]],<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 9/13: Alt. perspective review of NXT Week 28, overall show Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53263.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> as well as Bateman and [[JTG]].<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 10/19: Review of NXT Week 33, talk of Rookie Challenges returns, overall show Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_54406.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> However, Watson and O'Neil would find themselves unable to beat Darren Young and JTG.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 9/20: Alt. perspective review of NXT is Showtime Week 29, overall show Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_53521.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> Watson would also compete as a singles competitor on NXT, earning wins against the likes of Tyler Reks<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 11/30 - Week 39: Bateman wins & loses, Maxine vs. A. Fox, Showtime vs. Reks|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_55624.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref> and [[Heath Slater]].<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 1/18 - Week 46: Wedding interrupted, Titus turns heel, Elvis, out-of-control, destructive, and unproductive Cole commentary|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_57127.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=19 January 2012}}</ref>


After O'Neil turned his back on the fans, he urged Watson to do the same on the January 25, 2012 episode of ''NXT''. When Watson refused, O'Neil shoved him and a match between the two was booked, leading to O'Neil defeating Watson. O'Neil continued to attack Watson after the match, leading to [[Alex Riley]] saving Watson.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 1/25 - Week 47: Titus vs. Showtime, Slater ends The Streak, overall show Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_57402.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=26 January 2012}}</ref> On the February 1 and February 29 episodes of ''NXT'', Watson and Riley teamed up to face O'Neil and Young, but were defeated both times.<ref>{{cite web|last=Walek|first=Gregory|title=Wrestleview.com - NXT Results - 2/1/12|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1328376231|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=22 March 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Walek|first=Gregory|title=Wrestleview.com - NXT Results - 2/29/12|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1330614237|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=22 March 2012}}</ref> On the March 7 episode of ''NXT'', Watson received his rematch against O'Neil and defeated O'Neil.<ref>{{cite web|last=Walek|first=Gregory|title=Wrestleview.com - NXT Results - 3/7/12|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1331325876|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=22 March 2012}}</ref> From late April, Watson was involved in a storyline in which he was blamed for various backstage attacks on other wrestlers,<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 5/9 - Week 62: JTG debuts new look, Laurinaitis infiltrates NXT, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_61247.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=12 May 2012}}</ref> but the storyline was abruptly dropped as NXT Redemption drew to a close.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 5/23 - Week 64: NXT loses its way during transition phase, Khali & Zeke in main event|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_61735.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 June 2012|quote=[Last] week's show pretty much forgot about most of the on-going storylines ... ... The format of this show has fallen apart in the last two weeks, and they didn't mention one word about the "Percy Watson ambushing people" story in the slightest.}}</ref> On the final episode of the fifth season of ''NXT'' on June 13, Watson teamed with Derrick Bateman in a loss to Curt Hawkins and Tyler Reks.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 6/13 - Week 67: Final episode of Season 5, WWE introduces FCW stars for Season 6, Usos close out the season|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_62428.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=9 August 2012}}</ref>
After O'Neil turned his back on the fans, he urged Watson to do the same on the January 25, 2012 episode of ''NXT''. When Watson refused, O'Neil shoved him and a match between the two was booked, leading to O'Neil defeating Watson. O'Neil continued to attack Watson after the match, leading to [[Alex Riley]] saving Watson.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 1/25 - Week 47: Titus vs. Showtime, Slater ends The Streak, overall show Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_57402.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=26 January 2012}}</ref> On the February 1 and February 29 episodes of ''NXT'', Watson and Riley teamed up to face O'Neil and Young, but were defeated both times.<ref>{{cite web|last=Walek|first=Gregory|title=Wrestleview.com - NXT Results - 2/1/12|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1328376231|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=22 March 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Walek|first=Gregory|title=Wrestleview.com - NXT Results - 2/29/12|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1330614237|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=22 March 2012}}</ref> On the March 7 episode of ''NXT'', Watson received his rematch against O'Neil and defeated O'Neil.<ref>{{cite web|last=Walek|first=Gregory|title=Wrestleview.com - NXT Results - 3/7/12|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1331325876|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=22 March 2012}}</ref> From late April, Watson was involved in a storyline in which he was blamed for various backstage attacks on other wrestlers,<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 5/9 - Week 62: JTG debuts new look, Laurinaitis infiltrates NXT, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_61247.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=12 May 2012}}</ref> but the storyline was abruptly dropped as NXT Redemption drew to a close.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 5/23 - Week 64: NXT loses its way during transition phase, Khali & Zeke in main event|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_61735.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=30 June 2012|quote=[Last] week's show pretty much forgot about most of the on-going storylines ... ... The format of this show has fallen apart in the last two weeks, and they didn't mention one word about the "Percy Watson ambushing people" story in the slightest.}}</ref> On the final episode of the fifth season of ''NXT'' on June 13, Watson teamed with Derrick Bateman in a loss to Curt Hawkins and Tyler Reks.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 6/13 - Week 67: Final episode of Season 5, WWE introduces FCW stars for Season 6, Usos close out the season|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_62428.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=9 August 2012}}</ref>


After the conclusion of ''NXT Redemption'', NXT transitioned into the renamed Florida Championship Wrestling developmental territory.<ref name="FCWtoNXT">{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/118-daily-updates/27030-wwe-news-fcw-name-being-phased-out|title= WWE News: FCW name being phased out|access-date=August 14, 2012|publisher=Wrestling Observer}}</ref> Watson continued on appearing on the rebooted ''[[NXT (WWE brand)|NXT]]'' in a loss to [[Jinder Mahal]] on the July 18 episode of ''NXT''.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 7/18 - Week 5: Gabriel vs. Slater main event, Steamboat, Vickie's daughter, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_63686.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=9 August 2012}}</ref> It would be the start of a losing streak for Watson, who went on to lose to the likes of [[Chris Hero|Kassius Ohno]] and [[Adam Rose|Leo Kruger]] in 2012.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT RESULTS 9/5: Hero (Ohno) vs. Steamboats feud, Ross interviews new NXT champ, Clay, Usos, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_65100.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 10/3 - Week 16: Kidd & Gabriel main event, Showtime is back, Ohno-Steamboat issue continues, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_65837.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref> Watson then formed an occasional team with [[Yoshi Tatsu]], but they could find no success either; losing to [[The Ascension (professional wrestling)|the Ascension]] ([[Konnor (wrestler)|Conor O'Brian]] and [[Bram (wrestler)|Kenneth Cameron]]) on the November 14, 2012 episode of ''NXT''.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S NXT RESULTS 11/14 - Week 21: Rollins's NXT Title feud advances, Reigns featured, Layla vs. Aksana, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_66737.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref> On the January 23, 2013 episode of ''NXT'', Watson and Tatsu entered the [[NXT Tag Team Championship#Inaugural tournament|NXT Tag Team Championship Tournament]] to crown the inaugural champions but were defeated by [[The Wyatt Family]] ([[Luke Harper]] [[The Bludgeon Brothers|and]] [[Erick Rowan]]) in the first round.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT RESULTS 1/23: Tag Tournament begins, HBK appearance, Big E. in main event|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_68099.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref> On May 17, 2013, Watson was released;<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=WWE NEWS: Seven NXT cuts confirmed, including Divas; Dolph Ziggler comments on his brother's release|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_70660.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=2 June 2013}}</ref> his final televised match was a loss in a six-man tag match against [[The Shield (professional wrestling)|The Shield]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Percy Watson in 2013|url=http://profightdb.com/wrestlers/percy-watson-6289.html?year=2013|work=The Internet Wrestling Database|access-date=2 June 2013}}</ref>
After the conclusion of ''NXT Redemption'', NXT transitioned into the renamed Florida Championship Wrestling developmental territory.<ref name="FCWtoNXT">{{cite web|url=http://www.f4wonline.com/more/more-top-stories/118-daily-updates/27030-wwe-news-fcw-name-being-phased-out|title= WWE News: FCW name being phased out|access-date=August 14, 2012|publisher=Wrestling Observer}}</ref> Watson continued on appearing on the rebooted ''[[NXT (WWE brand)|NXT]]'' in a loss to [[Jinder Mahal]] on the July 18 episode of ''NXT''.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 7/18 - Week 5: Gabriel vs. Slater main event, Steamboat, Vickie's daughter, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_63686.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=9 August 2012}}</ref> It would be the start of a losing streak for Watson, who went on to lose to the likes of [[Chris Hero|Kassius Ohno]] and [[Adam Rose|Leo Kruger]] in 2012.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT RESULTS 9/5: Hero (Ohno) vs. Steamboats feud, Ross interviews new NXT champ, Clay, Usos, more|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_65100.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 10/3 - Week 16: Kidd & Gabriel main event, Showtime is back, Ohno-Steamboat issue continues, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_65837.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref> Watson then formed an occasional team with [[Yoshi Tatsu]], but they could find no success either; losing to [[The Ascension (professional wrestling)|the Ascension]] ([[Konnor (wrestler)|Conor O'Brian]] and [[Thom Latimer|Kenneth Cameron]]) on the November 14, 2012 episode of ''NXT''.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S NXT RESULTS 11/14 - Week 21: Rollins's NXT Title feud advances, Reigns featured, Layla vs. Aksana, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_66737.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref> On the January 23, 2013 episode of ''NXT'', Watson and Tatsu entered the [[NXT Tag Team Championship#Inaugural tournament|NXT Tag Team Championship Tournament]] to crown the inaugural champions but were defeated by [[The Wyatt Family]] ([[Brodie Lee|Luke Harper]] [[Luke Harper and Erick Rowan|and]] [[Erick Rowan]]) in the first round.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=JAMES'S WWE NXT RESULTS 1/23: Tag Tournament begins, HBK appearance, Big E. in main event|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_68099.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref> On May 17, 2013, Watson was released;<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=WWE NEWS: Seven NXT cuts confirmed, including Divas; Dolph Ziggler comments on his brother's release|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_70660.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=2 June 2013}}</ref> his final televised match was a loss in a six-man tag match against [[The Shield (professional wrestling)|The Shield]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Percy Watson in 2013|url=http://profightdb.com/wrestlers/percy-watson-6289.html?year=2013|work=The Internet Wrestling Database|access-date=2 June 2013}}</ref>


===Independent circuit (2014)===
===Independent circuit (2014)===
After being released, Watson made his independent debut on June 14, 2014 at Universal Championship Wrestling event called UCW Hometown Throwdown, in Georgia where he lost to [[Lance Hoyt]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Percy Watson Matches|url=http://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=6327&page=4&year=2014&promotion=1344|access-date=December 1, 2016|publisher=Cagematch}}</ref>
After being released, Watson made his independent debut on June 14, 2014 at Universal Championship Wrestling event called UCW Hometown Throwdown, in Georgia where he lost to [[Lance Archer|Lance Hoyt]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Percy Watson Matches|url=http://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=6327&page=4&year=2014&promotion=1344|access-date=December 1, 2016|publisher=Cagematch}}</ref>


===Return to WWE (2016–2019)===
===Return to WWE (2016–2019)===
On November 30, 2016, at the ''[[WWE NXT|NXT]]'' taping, Watson returned as the third man in the broadcast booth, joining [[Tom Phillips (wrestling)|Tom Phillips]] and [[Corey Graves]]. Graves made a full-time move to the [[Raw (WWE brand)|Raw]] brand's commentary booth in early 2017, with [[Nigel McGuinness]] joining Watson and Phillips. On April 10, 2018, Watson debuted as a color commentator on [[WWE 205 Live|205 Live]], alongside Vic Joseph and also on ''[[WWE Main Event|Main Event]]'' by next day.
On November 30, 2016, at the ''NXT'' taping, Watson returned as the third man in the broadcast booth, joining [[Tom Hannifan|Tom Phillips]] and [[Corey Graves]]. Graves made a full-time move to the [[Raw (WWE brand)|Raw]] brand's commentary booth in early 2017, with [[Nigel McGuinness]] joining Watson and Phillips. On April 10, 2018, Watson debuted as a color commentator on [[WWE 205 Live|205 Live]], alongside Vic Joseph and also on ''[[WWE Main Event|Main Event]]'' by next day.


Watson was replaced on 205 Live by [[Aiden English]] as of January 22, 2019 and moved to ''NXT''. During [[WrestleMania 35]] weekend he did commentary for [[WWE Worlds Collide (series)|Worlds Collide]] with Vic Joseph.<ref>https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-worlds-collide-results-evening-battle-royals-282886</ref> In April he was replaced on ''Main Event'' by various people including [[Sam Roberts (brodcaster)|Sam Roberts]]<ref>https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-main-event-results-sam-roberts-debuts-commentary-282021</ref> and [[David Otunga]].<ref>https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2019/04/26/4-24-wwe-main-event-tv-report-ruby-riott-vs-dana-brooke-ec3-vs-no-way-jose-otunga-responds-to-sam-roberts-commentary/</ref> Then at the NXT tapings in May, he was replaced on the commentary team by [[Beth Phoenix]].<ref>https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/beth-phoenix-joins-nxt-commentary-team-282861</ref> On May 11, it was reported Watson would be departing the company to pursue ventures outside of wrestling.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sapp |first1=Sean Ross |title=Percy Watson Leaving WWE For Outside Projects |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/percy-watson-leaving-wwe-outside-projects |website=Fightful |access-date=May 11, 2019}}</ref>
Watson was replaced on 205 Live by [[Matthew Rehwoldt|Aiden English]] as of January 22, 2019 and moved to ''NXT''. During [[WrestleMania 35]] weekend he did commentary for [[WWE Worlds Collide (series)|Worlds Collide]] with Vic Joseph.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-worlds-collide-results-evening-battle-royals-282886|title=WWE Worlds Collide results: An evening of battle royals|date=2 May 2019}}</ref> In April he was replaced on ''Main Event'' by various people including [[Sam Roberts (radio personality)|Sam Roberts]]<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-results/wwe-main-event-results-sam-roberts-debuts-commentary-282021|title = WWE Main Event results: Sam Roberts debuts on commentary|date = 20 April 2019}}</ref> and [[David Otunga]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2019/04/26/4-24-wwe-main-event-tv-report-ruby-riott-vs-dana-brooke-ec3-vs-no-way-jose-otunga-responds-to-sam-roberts-commentary/|title = 4/24 WWE MAIN EVENT TV REPORT: Ruby Riott vs. Dana Brooke, EC3 vs. No Way Jose, Otunga responds to Sam Roberts commentary|date = 27 April 2019}}</ref> At the NXT tapings in May, he was replaced on the commentary team by [[Beth Phoenix]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/wwe-news/beth-phoenix-joins-nxt-commentary-team-282861|title = Beth Phoenix joins NXT commentary team|date = May 2019}}</ref> On May 11, it was reported Watson would be departing the company to pursue ventures outside of wrestling.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Sapp |first1=Sean Ross |title=Percy Watson Leaving WWE For Outside Projects |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/percy-watson-leaving-wwe-outside-projects |website=Fightful |access-date=May 11, 2019}}</ref>

=== Independent circuit (2021-present) ===


==Championships and accomplishments==
==Championships and accomplishments==
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==See also==
==See also==
*[[List of gridiron football players who became professional wrestlers]]
*[[Free The Narrative]]


==References==
==References==
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==External links==
==External links==
{{Commons}}
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20111209102312/http://www.fcwwrestling.info/percywatson1.html FCW Profile]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20111209102312/http://www.fcwwrestling.info/percywatson1.html FCW profile]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120326103919/http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/mcneil_nick00.html College Football profile]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20120326103919/http://www.catamountsports.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/mcneil_nick00.html College Football profile]
* [http://www.wwe.com/superstars/wwenxt/percywatson WWE Profile]
* [http://www.wwe.com/superstars/wwenxt/percywatson WWE Profile]
* {{professional wrestling profiles}}


{{NXT Rookies}}
{{NXT Rookies}}
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Watson, Percy}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Watson, Percy}}
[[Category:1981 births]]
[[Category:1981 births]]
[[Category:African-American players of American football]]
[[Category:African-American professional wrestlers]]
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[[Category:African-American male professional wrestlers]]
[[Category:American football linebackers]]
[[Category:American football linebackers]]
[[Category:American male professional wrestlers]]
[[Category:American male professional wrestlers]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Living people]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Lawton, Oklahoma]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Lawton, Oklahoma]]
[[Category:Players of American football from Tampa, Florida]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Tampa, Florida]]
[[Category:Sportspeople from Tampa, Florida]]
[[Category:Professional wrestlers from North Carolina]]
[[Category:Professional wrestlers from North Carolina]]
[[Category:Washington Redskins players]]
[[Category:Washington Redskins players]]
[[Category:Western Carolina Catamounts football players]]
[[Category:Western Carolina Catamounts football players]]
[[Category:21st-century African-American people]]
[[Category:21st-century African-American sportspeople]]
[[Category:20th-century African-American people]]
[[Category:20th-century African-American people]]
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[[Category:21st-century male professional wrestlers]]

Latest revision as of 21:49, 16 April 2024

For other people named Percy Watson, see Percy Watson (disambiguation).
Percy Watson
Watson in 2013
Birth nameNicholas Christopher McNeil[1]
Born (1981-08-19) August 19, 1981 (age 42)[2]
Leland, North Carolina, U.S.[3]
Alma materWestern Carolina University
Children1
Professional wrestling career
Ring name(s)Nick McNeil[4]
Chris McNeil[4]
Percy Watson[5]
Cordell Porter
The Unknown Hand
Billed height6 ft 3 in (191 cm)
Billed weight245 lb (111 kg)[1][5]
Billed fromSouth Beach, Florida[5]
Trained byFCW
Debut2009[1]

Nicholas Christopher McNeil (born August 19, 1981), better known by his ring name Percy Watson, is an American professional wrestler, commentator, and former professional football player. He is best known for his time with WWE as an in-ring performer and later as a commentator on NXT, 205 Live, and WWE Main Event.

College and professional football career[edit]

Nick McNeil graduated from Western Carolina University with a bachelor's degree in computer information systems.[1] He was a three time All-Southern Conference selection at left defensive end for the Catamounts. As a sophomore, he led the Southern Conference in sacks with 10. As a junior, he led the conference in fumble recoveries. He finished his collegiate career tied for fourth all-time on the WCU tackles-for-loss list with 45. He finished sixth on the WCU all-time sack list with 18.5.[6] McNeil had experience in professional football from 2004-2006, spending time on the National Football League practice squads of the Green Bay Packers and Washington Redskins, as well as being on the offseason rosters of the Pittsburgh Steelers and New York Giants.[1][7] He was promoted to the Redskins' active roster on January 9, 2006, during the playoffs, but he did not play in any games.[8]

Professional wrestling career[edit]

World Wrestling Entertainment / WWE[edit]

Florida Championship Wrestling (2009–2011)[edit]

McNeil signed a developmental deal with World Wrestling Entertainment in 2009 and began training with their developmental territory, Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW). He made his FCW debut in September 2009 under his real name Nick McNeil, however shortly after that he tweaked his name to Chris McNeil. On October 1, 2009, he re-introduced himself as Percy Watson along with his tag team partner Darren Young and they called themselves the South Beach Party Boys.[9]

NXT (2010–2013)[edit]

McNeil participated in the second season of NXT under the name of Percy Watson, with Montel Vontavious Porter as his mentor.[10][11] Watson made his debut on the June 8, 2010 episode of NXT with the nickname "Showtime" Percy Watson, teaming with MVP and defeating Husky Harris and Cody Rhodes.[12] Watson was noted for being fun,[13] energetic[14] and similar to Eddie Murphy.[15] As part of his gimmick, Watson wore red glasses and even wrestled with his glasses on.[14]

In the NXT poll on the June 29 episode, Watson was ranked in second place, just behind Kaval.[16] On July 6, Watson won the Talk-the-Talk challenge and was rewarded with the chance to host a talk show the following week.[17] In his talk show segment, Watson had his Pro MVP as his talk show guest. However, in order to make a statement, Watson tried to set up MVP to receive an attack from the other Rookies, but the other Pros came to MVP's aid.[18] On the July 20 episode of NXT, Watson was a guest on MVP's VIP Lounge, where he was confronted by MVP about his actions the previous week. The two made amends after a heartfelt apology from Watson.[19] On the July 27 episode of NXT, Watson became the first Rookie to defeat a Pro in a singles match by defeating Zack Ryder.[20] On the August 17 episode of NXT, Watson was eliminated from the show, finishing fifth overall.[21] After Season 2 of NXT, Watson then competed in various dark matches but never appeared on WWE programming.[1]

McNeil as Percy Watson against Johnny Curtis in a match on NXT in 2012.

Watson returned on WWE programming on the September 8 episode of WWE Superstars without glasses and with a more toned-down gimmick, teaming with Titus O'Neil in a losing effort against Curt Hawkins and Tyler Reks.[22] He then redebuted on the fifth season of NXT not as a Rookie, but as Titus O'Neil's friend and tag team partner.[23] Watson and O'Neil would enjoy success against Derrick Bateman and Tyson Kidd,[24] as well as Bateman and JTG.[25] However, Watson and O'Neil would find themselves unable to beat Darren Young and JTG.[26] Watson would also compete as a singles competitor on NXT, earning wins against the likes of Tyler Reks[27] and Heath Slater.[28]

After O'Neil turned his back on the fans, he urged Watson to do the same on the January 25, 2012 episode of NXT. When Watson refused, O'Neil shoved him and a match between the two was booked, leading to O'Neil defeating Watson. O'Neil continued to attack Watson after the match, leading to Alex Riley saving Watson.[29] On the February 1 and February 29 episodes of NXT, Watson and Riley teamed up to face O'Neil and Young, but were defeated both times.[30][31] On the March 7 episode of NXT, Watson received his rematch against O'Neil and defeated O'Neil.[32] From late April, Watson was involved in a storyline in which he was blamed for various backstage attacks on other wrestlers,[33] but the storyline was abruptly dropped as NXT Redemption drew to a close.[34] On the final episode of the fifth season of NXT on June 13, Watson teamed with Derrick Bateman in a loss to Curt Hawkins and Tyler Reks.[35]

After the conclusion of NXT Redemption, NXT transitioned into the renamed Florida Championship Wrestling developmental territory.[36] Watson continued on appearing on the rebooted NXT in a loss to Jinder Mahal on the July 18 episode of NXT.[37] It would be the start of a losing streak for Watson, who went on to lose to the likes of Kassius Ohno and Leo Kruger in 2012.[38][39] Watson then formed an occasional team with Yoshi Tatsu, but they could find no success either; losing to the Ascension (Conor O'Brian and Kenneth Cameron) on the November 14, 2012 episode of NXT.[40] On the January 23, 2013 episode of NXT, Watson and Tatsu entered the NXT Tag Team Championship Tournament to crown the inaugural champions but were defeated by The Wyatt Family (Luke Harper and Erick Rowan) in the first round.[41] On May 17, 2013, Watson was released;[42] his final televised match was a loss in a six-man tag match against The Shield.[43]

Independent circuit (2014)[edit]

After being released, Watson made his independent debut on June 14, 2014 at Universal Championship Wrestling event called UCW Hometown Throwdown, in Georgia where he lost to Lance Hoyt.[44]

Return to WWE (2016–2019)[edit]

On November 30, 2016, at the NXT taping, Watson returned as the third man in the broadcast booth, joining Tom Phillips and Corey Graves. Graves made a full-time move to the Raw brand's commentary booth in early 2017, with Nigel McGuinness joining Watson and Phillips. On April 10, 2018, Watson debuted as a color commentator on 205 Live, alongside Vic Joseph and also on Main Event by next day.

Watson was replaced on 205 Live by Aiden English as of January 22, 2019 and moved to NXT. During WrestleMania 35 weekend he did commentary for Worlds Collide with Vic Joseph.[45] In April he was replaced on Main Event by various people including Sam Roberts[46] and David Otunga.[47] At the NXT tapings in May, he was replaced on the commentary team by Beth Phoenix.[48] On May 11, it was reported Watson would be departing the company to pursue ventures outside of wrestling.[49]

Championships and accomplishments[edit]

See also[edit]

References[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d e f "OWOW profile". Online World of Wrestling. Retrieved 2010-06-06.
  2. ^ "NFL Player Profile". NFL. Retrieved 2010-06-08.
  3. ^ "Western Carolina story".
  4. ^ a b "The Internet Wrestling Database profile".
  5. ^ a b c "WWE bio".
  6. ^ Brian Gaither, Nick McNeil and Michale Spicer Sign NFL Free Agent Contracts Archived 2012-03-26 at the Wayback Machine. Retrieved 2010-6-29
  7. ^ "Nick McNeil Stats, Profile, Bio, Analysis and More". SportsForecaster.com. Retrieved December 23, 2019.
  8. ^ "WCU FOOTBALL NEWS: McNeil on Redskins Roster; Cats to Play Georgia in 2007; Former Cats Still Alive in NFL Playoffs". catamountsports.com. January 10, 2006. Retrieved April 14, 2024.
  9. ^ "Florida Championship Wrestling results". Online World of Wrestling. Retrieved 2010-06-06.
  10. ^ Bishop, Matt (2010-06-01). "WWE NXT: Barrett wins show's first season". Slam! Sports. Canadian Online Explorer. Archived from the original on June 29, 2012. Retrieved 2010-06-04.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: unfit URL (link)
  11. ^ Caldwell, James (2010-06-04). "WWE News: NXT Results – Season Two announced, Pro & Rookie pairings revealed". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 2010-06-01.
  12. ^ Tedesco, Mike (2010-06-08). "WWE NXT Results - 6/8/10". WrestleView. Retrieved 2010-06-18.
  13. ^ "WWE NXT ROUNDTABLE REVIEWS 7/27: Caldwell, Mayer, Parks rate and review". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  14. ^ a b Keller, Wade. "KELLER'S WWE NXT REPORT 6/8: Follow-up to the big Raw-NXT angle, plus season two Rookies introduced by Pros, some standouts emerge already". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  15. ^ Tedesco, Mike. "WWE NXT Results - 7/6/10". Wrestleview. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  16. ^ Caldwell, James. "CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 6/29: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 4". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  17. ^ Caldwell, James. "CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/6: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 5". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  18. ^ Caldwell, James. "CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/13: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 6". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  19. ^ Caldwell, James. "CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/20: Complete "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 7". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  20. ^ Caldwell, James. "CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 7/27: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 8". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  21. ^ Caldwell, James. "CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 8/17: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 11". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  22. ^ Caldwell, James. "CALDWELL'S WWE SUPERSTARS REPORT 9/8: Bryan dominates main event, Fox vs. Tamina, returns & TV debuts & squash matches". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  23. ^ Caldwell, James. "CALDWELL'S WWE NXT RESULTS 9/13: Complete "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 5, Week 28 with Cole Cameo". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 September 2011.
  24. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 9/13: Alt. perspective review of NXT Week 28, overall show Reax". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 19 January 2012.
  25. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 10/19: Review of NXT Week 33, talk of Rookie Challenges returns, overall show Reax". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 19 January 2012.
  26. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 9/20: Alt. perspective review of NXT is Showtime Week 29, overall show Reax". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 19 January 2012.
  27. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 11/30 - Week 39: Bateman wins & loses, Maxine vs. A. Fox, Showtime vs. Reks". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 19 January 2012.
  28. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 1/18 - Week 46: Wedding interrupted, Titus turns heel, Elvis, out-of-control, destructive, and unproductive Cole commentary". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 19 January 2012.
  29. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 1/25 - Week 47: Titus vs. Showtime, Slater ends The Streak, overall show Reax". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 26 January 2012.
  30. ^ Walek, Gregory. "Wrestleview.com - NXT Results - 2/1/12". Wrestleview. Retrieved 22 March 2012.
  31. ^ Walek, Gregory. "Wrestleview.com - NXT Results - 2/29/12". Wrestleview. Retrieved 22 March 2012.
  32. ^ Walek, Gregory. "Wrestleview.com - NXT Results - 3/7/12". Wrestleview. Retrieved 22 March 2012.
  33. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 5/9 - Week 62: JTG debuts new look, Laurinaitis infiltrates NXT, Overall Reax". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 12 May 2012.
  34. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 5/23 - Week 64: NXT loses its way during transition phase, Khali & Zeke in main event". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 30 June 2012. [Last] week's show pretty much forgot about most of the on-going storylines ... ... The format of this show has fallen apart in the last two weeks, and they didn't mention one word about the "Percy Watson ambushing people" story in the slightest.
  35. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 6/13 - Week 67: Final episode of Season 5, WWE introduces FCW stars for Season 6, Usos close out the season". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 9 August 2012.
  36. ^ "WWE News: FCW name being phased out". Wrestling Observer. Retrieved August 14, 2012.
  37. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 7/18 - Week 5: Gabriel vs. Slater main event, Steamboat, Vickie's daughter, Overall Reax". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 9 August 2012.
  38. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT RESULTS 9/5: Hero (Ohno) vs. Steamboats feud, Ross interviews new NXT champ, Clay, Usos, more". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 15 February 2013.
  39. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT REPORT 10/3 - Week 16: Kidd & Gabriel main event, Showtime is back, Ohno-Steamboat issue continues, Overall Reax". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 15 February 2013.
  40. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S NXT RESULTS 11/14 - Week 21: Rollins's NXT Title feud advances, Reigns featured, Layla vs. Aksana, Overall Reax". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 15 February 2013.
  41. ^ James, Justin. "JAMES'S WWE NXT RESULTS 1/23: Tag Tournament begins, HBK appearance, Big E. in main event". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 15 February 2013.
  42. ^ Caldwell, James. "WWE NEWS: Seven NXT cuts confirmed, including Divas; Dolph Ziggler comments on his brother's release". Pro Wrestling Torch. Retrieved 2 June 2013.
  43. ^ "Percy Watson in 2013". The Internet Wrestling Database. Retrieved 2 June 2013.
  44. ^ "Percy Watson Matches". Cagematch. Retrieved December 1, 2016.
  45. ^ "WWE Worlds Collide results: An evening of battle royals". 2 May 2019.
  46. ^ "WWE Main Event results: Sam Roberts debuts on commentary". 20 April 2019.
  47. ^ "4/24 WWE MAIN EVENT TV REPORT: Ruby Riott vs. Dana Brooke, EC3 vs. No Way Jose, Otunga responds to Sam Roberts commentary". 27 April 2019.
  48. ^ "Beth Phoenix joins NXT commentary team". May 2019.
  49. ^ Sapp, Sean Ross. "Percy Watson Leaving WWE For Outside Projects". Fightful. Retrieved May 11, 2019.
  50. ^ ""PWI 500": 201–300". Pro Wrestling Illustrated. 2010-07-28. Retrieved 2010-07-31.

External links[edit]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Nick McNeil.
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