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Throughout wrestling history, championship reigns would solidify careers. The Ultimate Warrior would topple Honk Tonk Man for the WWE Intercontinental Championship, leading him to the WWE Championship. Moreover, CM Punk would become the longest reigning WWE Champion. Both names are synonymous with success.
Regardless of these examples, there are those overlooked. Names such as; Mr Perfect, British Bulldog, and Vader all missed out on championship success in WWE. In modern times, names like Finn Balor could be considered overlooked. The use of talent in NJPW and ROH is excellent. Therefore, WWE could consider altering their mindset.
Here are five such wrestlers who deserve an opportunity at a championship in WWE.
# 5. Velveteen Dream (NXT North American Championship)
Being 22 years old, Velveteen Dream has the greatest of potential. He has worked with Aleister Black. Moreover, he was involved in the inaugural North American Championship Ladder match. It is questionable why he has yet become a champion.
Throughout his career Dream has performed with drama and passion. He exhumes excellent character work within the ring. Moreover, his promo presentation is excellent. However, what makes Dream unique is his ring credentials. He arguably has the best pure Elbow Drop since Randy Savage.
At NXT Takeover: Brooklyn IV a plethora of excellent matches will occur. Presently, there is no scheduled match for Dream. However, he seems ready for action, see the video below. Regardless of his next opponent, Dream deserves a championship opportunity. Considering his performance for the North American Championship, could it be Adam Cole?
# 4. Mojo Rawley (Intercontinental Championship)
On May 29th Mojo Rawley debuted on WWE Television. He would work on NXT until 2016. In 2016 Rawley partnered with Zack Ryder. However, it was at Wrestlemania 33 where Rawley's singles capability shined through, see video below.
On November 28th Rawley attacked Ryder ending their reunion. Since then Rawley has carved a path of destruction. He competed to become United States champion. Moreover, answered Seth Rollins open challenge for the Intercontinental championship. Recently on Raw Rawley has outlasted No Way Jose, Tyler Breeze, and jobbers. At present, he is feuding with Bobby Roode.
Nevertheless, his actions in the ring have been excellent. When performing Rawley draws engagement from the crowd. Moreover, he can use a microphone decently. He will become champion this year. Perhaps, the Intercontinental Champion.
# 3. Andrade Cien Almas (WWE Championship)
Andrade Cien Almas has been used sparingly upon debuting for SmackDown Live, primarily facing enhancement talent. However, his matches against AJ Styles and Rusev showcased his potential. Almas' future is looking bright.
On NXT Almas achieved great things. Firstly, he was the NXT champion. Secondly, he participated in a Five-Star match rated by Dave Meltzer. Notwithstanding Almas owes his success to Zelina Vega's efforts. Acting as his manager Vega has been integral. She has conducted excellent promo material, see video below. Together they are exceptional.
Within the ring, Almas has a unique blend of Luch-Libre and technical wrestling. He is similar to former WWE wrestler, Alberto Del Rio. His recent performances against Styles and Rusev were excellent. It is clear WWE have invested in his future. Therefore, when will Almas become champion. Moreover, who will he challenge? Either way, Almas would be an excellent champion.
# 2. Kevin Owens (Universal Championship)
In ROH Kevin Owens tore the house down alongside fellow WWE star Sami Zayn. Moreover, he would become ROH World Champion. However, in 2014 he joined WWE, signing with their developmental brand NXT. After a short period, he joined the main roster.
Since his main roster debut, Owens has become a multiple time champion. He is a former; Intercontinental, United States, and Universal Champion. He progressed excellently compared to other NXT call-ups. Most notably Owens greatest performances have been against Sami Zayn and Chris Jericho.
Recently, Owens has been feuding with Braun Strowman, see video below. Their feud has been reasonably entertaining. At SummerSlam Owens faces Strowman for the Money in the Bank briefcase. Regardless of the outcome, both remain strong contenders. Owens has excellent ring capability, and arguably the best heel character in WWE. He should become champion in 2018.
# 1. Finn Balor (Universal Championship)
His time with NJPW afforded excellent entertainment. Moreover, it created the Bullet Club. Of course, his name is Finn Balor. Debuting for WWE in 2014, he went on to become NXT Champion. After two years in NXT, he made the jump to Raw.
Balor has become the inaugural Universal Champion. However, after a sidelining injury, he had to vacate the championship, see video below. Since then his performances have been lacklustre. His recent feud with Baron Corbin seems to detrimental to his success.
Finn Balor is perhaps the best worker in WWE. However, he truly shines as Demon Finn Balor, his alter ego. Regardless, of his opponent, his performance is exciting and dramatic. Considering he is owed a Universal championship rematch. Perhaps WWE is biding their time to implement it. Nevertheless, he will become a champion once more.
