Elias Samson, Tim Wiese and Latest WWE NXT Developmental News

In suffering an injury that threatens to sideline him for significant time, Elias Samson was reminded just how dangerous trying to climb the WWE NXT ladder can be. Former footballer Tim Wiese could soon experience the arduous nature of making a living in the ring for himself.

Samson left a recent NXT show unable to stand. He will have to step aside for the time being and let other prospects in WWE's developmental brand take the stage.

Wiese may eventually be among that group as NXT opened its doors to the German goalkeeper.

In other stories, Shinsuke Nakamura is set for a pair of compelling bouts in Japan, a new addition is set to join the NXT roster and the powerhouse who arrived in Orlando, Florida, will have fans abuzz.

Former Goalkeeper Accepts Invite to WWE Performance Center

Tim Wiese, the former German goalkeeper who has shown a clear interest in pursuing a WWE career, is getting his shot to do so.

WWE announced on its official website, "Wiese, the former German national goalkeeper, has accepted a personal invitation from Paul 'Triple H' Levesque, WWE’s Executive Vice President of Talent, Live Events & Creative, to join the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, for an extended training period."

Triple H said of Wiese, per WWE.com, "This is his break to walk his talk. If all goes well in Florida, he will get his chance in the ring."

This isn't a surprise to those who have kept up with Wiese. Back in 2014, the keeper, known for being a bit too physical on the pitch sometimes, made an appearance at a WWE house show in Germany. 

Wiese certainly has the build and look to fit in with the wrestling world. He's 6'4'', and his well-built physique often puts a strain on his shirts.

Update on NXT Stars on WWE Japanese Tour

There had been rumblings in the past about who Shinsuke Nakamura would be facing when he joined the WWE roster for its tour of Japan this summer, but those bouts are now officially confirmed.

Josh Nason noted on F4WOnline.com (citing Japan's WWE website) that Nakamura will face Bray Wyatt on July 1 and Kevin Owens on July 2. NXT women's champ Asuka will face Becky Lynch and Natalya, respectively, on those two nights.

All four matches would be right at home on a major pay-per-view. The events remain untelevised house shows for now, though. Officials have not announced that either July event will be broadcast on the WWE Network as the company did with the Beast in the East special last year.

That likely means that only a small (lucky) portion of the WWE fanbase is going to see Nakamura tackle Wyatt and Asuka clash with Lynch.  

WWE Signs Indy Talent

Another hard-hitting bruiser is set to join the WWE NXT ranks. 

Tommy End, a Dutch wrestler who made his name in the United Kingdom, has signed with the company. Sean Radican of Pro Wrestling Torch reported the news over the weekend. Radican also added that End is expected to begin his tenure in September.

End is not as big a name as recent acquisitions such as Austin Aries and Eric Young, but he will be a good fit as part of the NXT brand.

He's extremely experienced, having been in wrestling for over 10 years. He's a strong striker with a nasty attitude. And End has a look that will help him stand out, with long limbs covered in tattoos.

Elias Samson Suffers Injury

Elias Samson will have to step away from the ring for the time being thanks to a bad wheel. 

WWE.com announced, "Samson suffered a fractured left ankle while competing at an NXT Live Event in Nashville this past weekend." Dr. Chris Amann told WWE.com that Samson will be put in a cast and begin using crutches.

The Drifter had been featured on NXT TV a lot of late. While he wasn't tearing it up in regard to wins, Samson was facing the brand's top talent from Austin Aries to Shinsuke Nakamura. This injury will slow his momentum and open the door for others to take his spot while he's gone.

No return timetable has been set as of now.

Other News, Notes

During Triple H's conference call (h/t PWInsider.com) with wrestling industry outlets, the WWE executive said that the NXT roster will undergo changes following the brand split, but he wasn't sure what those would be yet. He also mentioned there will be a need for a lot of talent on both brands.

That certainly sounds like NXT will play a role in the upcoming WWE draft. 

NXT TakeOver: The End looks to have some special guests. PWInsider.com's Mike Johnson noted on Wednesday, "Shawn Michaels and Kevin Nash were both at the WWE Performance Center yesterday, so expect them to make a cameo at Takeover tonight."

Michaels and Nash may not be alone. Johnson also wrote that "Ring of Honor star Moose has been spotted in the Orlando area" ahead of Takeover but is reportedly only there to visit friends.

There has been a ton of speculation about the ROH powerhouse joining WWE at some point. This news will only add to that, regardless if he's at NXT's homebase for business or personal reasons.