WWE's top 5 biggest MVPs of 2016
As 2016 quickly comes to a close for WWE, we take the time to look back on the various highlights and low points from throughout the year. From the relaunch of the Cruiserweight division to the rebranding of the women's division to the return of the Brand Split; 2016 will not be soon forgotten by fans.
Speaking of said Brand Extension, it led to several Superstars receiving more television time and more opportunities, including some that you would have never thought would experience the success they did. Through their memorable matches and remarkable mic work, they took 2016 by storm and deservedly earned the title of Raw and SmackDown Live's biggest MVPs.
There are bound to be breakout stars in the new year, but it's important to recognise those who made 2016 so great for WWE on both brands. Will they be able to carry their strong momentum into 2017?
#5 Alexa Bliss
It was apparent from the moment she arrived in NXT in the spring of 2014 that Alexa Bliss was something special, even though she was fairly generic as a babyface. It wasn't until she went heel last year that she really started to show signs of singles potential.
Bliss was undoubtedly the best part of her partnership with Blake and Murphy, and parting ways with the former NXT Tag Team champions earlier this year was the best thing she could have done. In mid-July, she was drafted to SmackDown Live as a surprise pick; though no one knew at that time, the impact she would eventually have on the blue brand.
From her debut win over Becky Lynch to beating The Irish Lasskicker once again at TLC to clinch her premiere SmackDown Women's Championship, no woman on SmackDown has benefited more from the Brand split than her. With her gorgeous looks and her stellar skills on the microphone, Bliss is the perfect package, and she's only getting started.