Triple H Denies Mickie James - Asuka Rumor

As noted, Triple H appeared on a NXT Takeover media conference call this morning, which Wrestling Inc. was on hand for. During the call, Triple H claimed that reports of WWE wanting Trish Stratus to face WWE NXT Women's Champion Asuka at "Takeover: Toronto" next week, but went with Mickie James because Stratus was expecting her second child, were not true.

"I've seen the rumors out there about other people being attempted to be grabbed for [Mickie's spot]," Triple H said. He added that for next week's Takeover, he wanted more time for the other women in NXT to grow as performers, so he went with Mickie James, noting that she was very skilled and could handle it.

"I felt like [Mickie] and Asuka would tear it up," Triple H added. "I want to re-inforce that Mickie was not the consolation prize for us in anyway. She is the person that we went at."

You can listen to highlights from the call in the video above.