4 WWE Superstars who had the worst 2024
As 2024 ends, the WWE Universe reflects on the last 12 months of programming. The Paul Levesque Era was in full swing this year with a heavy emphasis on long-term storytelling.
Prominent names like Cody Rhodes, Gunther, and CM Punk had a memorable year as they added important wins to their resume. While the stock of such Superstars skyrocketed, others had seen better times.
On that note, let's look at four WWE Superstars who had the worst 2024.
#4. The WWE Universe has seen better versions of AJ Styles
AJ Styles is 47, but The Phenomenal One still brings so much to the ring today. However, Styles didn't have many opportunities to showcase his ability as he spent quite some time on the sidelines.
Following an unsuccessful World Title pursuit in June, Styles was taken off TV for months. He would return in October but got injured on his first night back. The Phenomenal One struggled for meaningful storylines and TV time throughout the year.
When he was used, it was usually to put over upcoming talent. The former TNA star lost to LA Knight at WrestleMania XL. After Mania, he battled WWE Champion Cody Rhodes twice, only to lose clean to The American Nightmare.
Styles also distanced himself from The O.C, walking alone on SmackDown. The blue brand was "The House that AJ Styles Built," but he looked like a shell of his 2016 version that put the show on the map.
#3. Austin Theory has not been a top priority in The Paul Levesque Era
When Vince McMahon had creative control, Austin Theory received a sizeable push. Theory was one of the fastest-rising stars in early 2022 and was on track to become the World Champion. However, things began changing upon Triple H's takeover.
Despite losing some steam in the Paul Levesque era, Theory still had a decent 2023 as he spent most of the year as US Champion and defeated John Cena at WrestleMania 39. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for his booking in the last 12 months.
From becoming Logan Paul's sidekick to a mediocre Tag Team Title run, Theory struggled to make an impact. Pairing him with Grayson Waller was a smart idea, and the arrogant duo was entertaining. However, WWE often used them as fodder for babyfaces.
Theory went from a future World Champion to just another guy on the main roster. The former US Champion still has plenty of time left in his career, and he could change his fortunes in 2025.
#2. Omos
Another "Vince McMahon guy" who has floundered under Triple H's creative regime, Omos has struggled for TV time. The Nigerian Giant's only noteworthy contributions in 2024 were a cameo Royal Rumble appearance and participation in the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal.
This was the same person who battled Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania 39 and followed up with a strong showing against Seth "Freakin" Rollins at Backlash 2023. Omos has struggled for TV time and has not participated in many meaningful storylines.
The Nigerian Giant has improved a lot in the ring, and his work outside the squared circle has endeared him to the WWE Universe. Hunter should consider giving him a push next year.
#1. Finn Balor
The Judgment Day underwent significant changes in 2024, but Finn Balor remained a consistent member of one of WWE's top factions. But, despite his veteran presence and skill, Balor couldn't create magic in the last 12 months.
At the start of the year, Damian Priest's Money in the Bank and R-Truth's comedic acts took the spotlight away from The Prince. Then, The Judgment Day lost the Tag Titles to Awesome Truth at WrestleMania XL only to win them back a couple of months later.
Unfortunately, Balor and McDonagh had a forgettable title reign as the championships were seldom defended. Many fans had lost interest in their run as they forgot the belts existed. The War Raiders' win was, thus, a welcome change.
It felt as if betraying Priest at SummerSlam could have given him a sizeable push. However, little success has come of the betrayal. The Prince lost to The Punisher at Bad Blood and failed to win the World Heavyweight Title at Saturday Night's Main Event.
Luckily, Balor could be due for a push in 2025, which may finally see him win the World Championship and have a legitimate run as champion.