3 Potential NXT Superstars Who Can Beat Roman Reigns
For years, there was a clamor for Roman Reigns to turn heel in WWE. The company persisted with him as a babyface, but fans just weren’t interested in him as a conquering hero.
As “The Big Dog,” Reigns came across as milquetoast and lacked personality. His character was shallow, and he struggled to connect with the audience. For example, a program meant to pass the torch from The Undertaker to Reigns was reduced to a grudge match over who could claim the ring as their “yard.”
However, Reigns’ heel persona has been a remarkable success. As the Tribal Chief, he exudes the presence of a mafia family head and is arguably the most compelling character in professional wrestling.
Thanks to Paul Heyman, Reigns’ promos have been exceptional, and his matches carry more gravitas than ever. Surrounding himself with The Usos and Paul Heyman has been a perfect move, and WWE has booked him as the top star in the promotion.
With all this momentum behind Roman Reigns, it’s crucial that the performer who eventually dethrones him is carefully booked and someone fans can rally behind.
Here are three current WWE NXT Superstars who could realistically dethrone Roman Reigns:
#3 The Current NXT Champ – Carmelo Hayes
Carmelo Hayes has rapidly ascended in NXT, making a name for himself as the NXT Champion. His combination of in-ring prowess and heelish arrogance has garnered attention. Since his debut in June, he’s won the Breakout tournament and the North American title, To challenge Roman Reigns, Hayes would need to continue evolving his character and honing his skills. A future feud between Hayes and Reigns could revolve around Hayes’ youthful confidence and ambition clashing with Reigns’ established dominance. Their rivalry could showcase the clash of generations, making for a compelling storyline.
#2 Ilja Dragunov
Ilja Dragunov, a Russian-born German wrestler, is one of NXT’s most promising talents & as a former NXT UK World Champion, Dragunov has proven himself as a top-tier competitor. Despite his readiness to move up to WWE’s main roster, the call hasn’t come. At just 29 years old, Dragunov has the physical abilities and potential character and mic skills to become a key player in WWE.
A potential feud could focus on Dragunov’s unwavering determination and resilience against Reigns’ power and calculated aggression. Dragunov’s background and unique persona would provide a fresh and intriguing dynamic in the feud. Ilja Dragunov’s intense wrestling style and international experience could position him as a credible challenger to Roman Reigns. He could be a formidable opponent for Roman Reigns.
#1 Bron Breakker
Bron Breakker, coming from a legendary wrestling family, is one of WWE’s most impressive athletes and a two-time NXT Champion. His hype and potential have led many to see him as a future megastar. His athleticism, charisma, and ability to carry himself like a main eventer set him apart. In a storyline against Roman Reigns, Breakker’s youth and potential could be framed as a passing of the torch moment. The clash of two powerhouse athletes with strong wrestling pedigrees would be a marquee matchup. Breakker’s promo skills, reminiscent of his uncle Scott Steiner, make him a strong candidate to dethrone Roman Reigns.
Honorable mention: Tyler Bate, if built properly, could also be a contender to dethrone Reigns. Despite his size, Bate possesses incredible athleticism, resilience, and an indomitable spirit.
These three NXT Superstars, Carmelo Hayes, Ilja Dragunov, and Bron Breakker, each bring unique qualities to the table that could lead to captivating storylines and memorable battles with Roman Reigns in the future. The key will be in WWE’s storytelling and their ability to build these talents into credible challengers for the Universal Championship. Wrestling fans can anticipate exciting developments as these rising stars continue their journeys within the WWE Universe. According to you, there may be others on the current NXT roster with the potential to do so as well. Who are they? Comment Below.
