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The NXT brand has perhaps the very best stars in modern-day WWE entertainment, (watch the video below). Names like; Finn Balor, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Kevin Owens have progressed exponentially since leaving the brand and joining the main roster. Nevertheless, let's not forget those currently active on the brand.
In late 2017, NXT generated a lot of buzz with the re-introduction of the WarGames concept. The battle, which included the Undisputed Era, Authors of Pain & Roderick Strong, and Sanity, was exhilarating. Moreover, it established the necessity for developing future stars. However, in 2018 the entertainment value improved further, leading to NXT Takeover: WarGames II.
With names like Johnny Gargano, Aleister Black, and Tomasso Ciampa, the brand seems unstoppable. However, considering the recent loss of Lars Sullivan to the main roster, what happens next? Let's look at those likely to make an impact in 2019.
# 3. Matt Riddle
After being compared to the likes of Brock Lesnar, Ken Shamrock, and Kurt Angle, Matt Riddle will probably have a bright future. In 2014, Riddle began his professional wrestling career transition from Mixed Martial Arts (MMA). Although his MMA career was promising, it seems his destiny was professional wrestling.
Throughout his tenure outside WWE, Riddle worked excellent matches with Jeff Cobb, Will Ospreay, and Tomasso Ciampa. However, these are to name only a few. Moreover, Riddle earned the titles of Rookie of the Year and Most Improved Wrestler in 2016.
On October 31st Riddle debuted for NXT and defeated Luke Menzies. In subsequent months Riddle went on to defeat Kassius Ohno at NXT Takeover: WarGames II, (watch the video below). So far Riddle's presence has been exciting. Moreover, his future seems extremely bright for himself and his fans.
Riddle's career has taken shape nicely in recent months, resembling Kurt Angle's entry to professional wrestling. Nevertheless, regardless of similarities, Riddle will be an excellent asset to the NXT brand. Moreover, only time will tell until he becomes a champion. Will he defeat Ricochet or Tomasso Ciampa?
# 2. EC3
EC3 has a plethora of skills. Moreover, his character is likeable yet easy to detest. Ultimately he possesses immense potential for success. Nevertheless, within NXT he has yet built credibility and proved his value to fans.
EC3 came to be around 2013. He managed to build an epic character worth watching, inside and outside of the ring. His tenure with Impact Wrestling during this time led to a lot of achievements, such as reigns as Impact World Champion and Impact Grand Champion. However, he was destined for WWE.
On March 28th, 2018 EC3 debuted for NXT. Since then he has sporadically appeared, yet his performances have left their mark on fans. During NXT Takeover: New Orleans EC3 helped build the success of the NXT North American Championship ladder match to determine the inaugural champion (watch the video below).
His performance in that match and others since has been excellent. In 2019, expect EC3 to take centre stage, maybe even against the NXT Champion.
# 1. Velveteen Dream
Throughout his tenure with WWE, Velveteen Dream has progressed exponentially. He has gone from a newcomer to a potential future Hall of Famer. However, he has yet to win a championship.
At NXT Takeover: WarGames 2017 Dream competed with Aleister Black. Their match cemented both competitors' ring credibility. However, this was merely the beginning.
At NXT Takeover: New Orleans Dream, showcased his abilities. Let's say fans were not disappointed. On numerous occasions in the match, he was mere moments from victory. Although his efforts were in vain, as Adam Cole walked out the victor, Dream's performance left fans hungry for more.
At NXT Takeover: WarGames II, Dream competed for the NXT Championship. To date, it was arguably his best match. On multiple occasions, Dream took Tommaso Ciampa to his absolute limit. He almost walked out as champion, (watch the video below). Although he was unsuccessful, Dream proved his worth. When can we expect Dream's championship reign to begin? Ultimately time will tell.
What makes Sting special? His first AEW opponent opens up RIGHT HERE.
