Cody Rhodes replaced, Massive return after 5 months, and more - Predicting the Top 10 Draft picks for WWE RAW
We are closing in on the highly-anticipated WWE Draft 2024, where the main roster shake-up guarantees shocking splits, exciting new feuds, and monumental changes in title pictures. With WrestleMania XL in history books, both RAW and SmackDown are keen to sign crème de la crème from a talented pool of superstars.
Here, we look at the potential Top Ten Draft picks for WWE RAW this year:
#1. Damian Priest (World Heavyweight Champion)
The newly-crowned World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest will likely be the number one pick for RAW at the upcoming WWE Draft. The Judgment Day member cashed in his Money in the Bank contract at WrestleMania to win his first world title in the promotion.
Considering Cody Rhodes' rumored move to SmackDown, the flagship show will look to retain its biggest titleholder. Fans are curious to see how Priest is booked moving forward, with his first championship defense booked for Backlash 2024.
#2. Becky Lynch
Becky Lynch is arguably the biggest female superstar on the modern-day WWE roster. RAW recently lost Rhea Ripley, who had to relinquish her Women's World Championship after suffering an injury that would put her on the shelf for a few months.
In Mami's absence, RAW desperately needs big names in the women's division, and Becky Lynch fits the bill. She unsuccessfully challenged Ripley for the gold at WrestleMania XL, but as has been evident, Becky doesn't need a title to be at the top.
#3. Randy Orton
The 14-time world champion made a massive return at Survivor Series last year and briefly featured on RAW before moving to SmackDown. Randy Orton has since been one of the biggest babyfaces on the brand, where he was involved in title feuds with Roman Reigns and Logan Paul for their championships, respectively.
Unless WWE has plans to capitalize on The Viper's budding alliance with Kevin Owens or an immediate storyline with Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton could move to RAW. The legendary superstar could return to the red brand after five months, where he would be an instant favorite in the title picture.
#4. Logan Paul (WWE United States Champion)
Logan Paul has done an incredible job playing an annoying heel. The Maverick has won fans over with his dedication to wrestling and has impressively grown into the culture. He has been involved in intriguing feuds on SmackDown, but now would be the right time for a change.
WWE could move Logan Paul to RAW in hopes of creating new rivalries for the reigning United States Champion. He is fresh off a successful title defense against Randy Orton and Kevin Owens in a Triple Threat Match at WrestleMania XL. Paul could use the momentum further to elevate his reign with a mix of new challengers.
#5. Jey Uso
Jey Uso is undoubtedly one of the top babyfaces in WWE today. He has a massive opportunity at Backlash 2024, where he will challenge Damian Priest for the World Heavyweight Championship. The former Bloodline member has enjoyed an impressive singles run on the red brand and is prepared to take over.
Even Cody Rhodes suggested handing over RAW to "Main Event" Jey Uso last week. He could be involved in an extended feud with The Judgment Day to help support his title charge.
#6. Liv Morgan
Liv Morgan proudly claimed credit for putting Rhea Ripley on the shelf. She could take her heel run a step further if she claims the Women's World Championship on RAW this week.
The flagship show is unlikely to let go of one of its hottest angles ahead of the Draft. Instead, we may see Morgan win the top prize and dominate the women's division while simultaneously setting up a brutal feud with Rhea Ripley upon the latter's return.
#7. The Judgment Day
WWE has the option to split up The Judgment Day in the upcoming Draft. However, the creative team might prefer a betrayal angle to facilitate the heel faction's implosion.
We recently saw slight tension between Damian Priest and Finn Balor on RAW. The red brand would like to keep the World Heavyweight Champion and his faction on the show to capitalize on a massive break-up that will occur sooner or later.
#8. LA Knight
LA Knight defeated AJ Styles at WrestleMania XL to pick up a massive win at the Grandest Stage of Them All. The Megastar then faced The Phenomenal One for a shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship on SmackDown last week. However, the 41-year-old came up short in his pursuits.
Knight needs to go after the United States Championship, and he could be one of the top names that RAW manages to steal from SmackDown. He could gain momentum with a couple of feuds before challenging Logan Paul for the title.
#9. Jade Cargill
WWE has left no stone unturned in presenting Jade Cargill as a Superstar on SmackDown. She has allied forces with Bianca Belair, and the duo is seemingly gearing up to challenge Asuka and Kairi Sane for the Women's Tag Team Championship.
Since Damage CTRL has been running the show on SmackDown, we could see Jade Cargill move to RAW, followed by Bianca Belair. If they eventually win the tag team gold, the two superstars can bring it to the red brand. If Rhea Ripley's absence may have forced a change in plans, the creative team could also use the Draft to quietly split up Cargill from Belair.
#10. Gunther
Gunther did a commendable job elevating the Intercontinental Championship on WWE RAW during his 666-day reign. The Ring General deserves to reap the benefits of his hard work by being pushed into the World Heavyweight Championship picture on Monday Night RAW.
Gunther will pose a legitimate threat to any championship in WWE for which he challenges. It would be wise for the red brand to retain Gunther, especially when he is all set to unlock new levels at the top of his game.