5 NXT stars we would like to see on RAW or Smackdown Live in 2018
Over the past few years, WWE's developmental brand NXT has been a breeding ground for talent. They have brought in independent wrestlers, or people from other sports and athletic endeavours, and harnessed their skills and helped to elevate them to a whole new level.
The NXT faithful have always been responsive to these men and women and recognise that this is where the next ones are coming from. Kevin Owens, Seth Rollins, Big E, The Wyatt Family, Dean Ambrose, Roman Reigns, Aiden English, Rusev, Shinsuke Nakamura and more all came into the brand, elevated the value of the promotion, and were then brought to the main roster and given even greater exposure.
However, as the year is set to turn, and doubtless a number of talented stars are set to move to the main roster, one has to hope that certain names are brought to the forefront. Who are some NXT performers that fans would want to see? Which ones stand out based on their showing on the brand? Here are five NXT stars we'd like to see added to Raw or Smackdown Live in 2018.
#5 Roderick Strong
A former Ring of Honor triple-crown champion, Strong's time in NXT has seen him compete in main events and be part of some memorable moments over the past year. One of the most notable things to mention about Strong is how truly capable he is in the ring. His strait-laced and no-nonsense manner gives no inkling of his deceptive, skilful array of moves, which could otherwise go overlooked.
Whether or not he becomes the NXT champion isn't significant. What is important is that he continues to be used in meaningful matches and has his character continue to develop during his time with the brand. Strong would be another welcome addition on either Smackdown Live or Raw. He could be part of the RAW roster, perhaps part of the 205 Live roster, and they could do with him what they didn't do effectively with Austin Aries. Fans could be witness to someone that is able to be both an effective heel or face provided the opportunity.
Roderick Strong's main roster debut has seemingly been confirmed, with him participating in the 16-man Cruiserweight Championship tournament