Top 5 Uprising Stars Who Joined the WWE in 2017
5. Tyler Bate
This remarkable athlete has already proven his ability in the WWE, as he became the first ever United Kingdom champion, defeating Pete Dunne in the finals of the tournament. The talent of Bate has proven itself through the independent circuit with British Strong Style, and the matches he has put on in NXT has shown the true potential of what the UK division should live up to. Although he went on to lose the UK title to fellow British Strong Style teammate Pete Dunne, he is still a future rising star in the WWE.
4. Mike and Maria Kanellis
We have not seen much of these competitors since debuting at Money In The Bank, but if their future is as bright as their past, then we have a making for potential future champions in the WWE. Mike started off in the independent circuit, as he began to gain fame, securing himself a few championships along the way. Mike later went on to end the historic winning streak of TNA star Ethan Carter III. With his wife, Maria, the couple started to take over smaller companies, including TNA. Maria Kanellis, formerly known as Maria Kanellis Bennett, later went on to become the Knockouts champion.
3. Aleister Black
Although he signed with NXT back in 2016, Black had his official debut in January, as he defeated cruiser weight competitor Lince Dorado. For those who do not know this competitor, I suggest you watch his film. Formerly known as Tommy End, Black has revolutionized the independent circuit with his athletic capability. One of his most recognized matches on NXT occurred at NXT Takeover in Orlando, as he faced off against Andrade Cien Almas. Black went on to earn his victory, as well as his recognition, by the WWE universe. I for one can not wait to see this man’s future within the business, as he is surely championship material heading forward into his WWE career.
2. Pete Dunne
This self-proclaimed wrestler has certainly lived up to his name, as he is one of the most gifted competitors in the WWE at the moment. Dunne can fight, talk, and has had one of the best gimmicks you can ask for. Being the current UK champion, after defeating Tyler Bate, I can see a future with this man being well-known not only to the independent circuit, but even around the world. Dunne is still tearing up competition with the British Strong Style,and it looks as though we may have a class athlete in the making.
1. Drew McIntyre
This is nowhere near his first stint in the WWE, as McIntyre briefly parted ways with the company, eventually finding himself returning as 2017 came along. Being a former-Intercontinental Champion, McIntyre has the talent and potential it takes to get back into his old-form. Once he left the WWE, he started making his name known around the world. On the independent circuit, McIntyre became one of the most beloved wrestlers to lace a pair of boots. Making a statement in NXT already, watch out for McIntyre, as he is the biggest uprising star the WWE signed in 2017.
(Photo credits to WWE.com)
