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As NXT continues to grow, and become WWE's most talked about brand, they need to acquire top-level talent to replace those stars who graduate to the 'main' roster.
Fortunately for wrestling fans, they have done exactly that. NXT has made several recent hires that have the wrestling community abuzz with anticipation. These are the men and women who will continue to grow NXT and generate excitement at all levels of wrestling.
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Without further ado, here are 7 NXT stars to watch.
#1.Matt Riddle
It seems that more and more MMA fighters are feeling the call to the wrestling ring. Matt Riddle was a UFC standout and Ultimate Fighter contestant who was famously fired for smoking marijuana, on the grounds it was a 'performance-enhancing drug.'
To paraphrase Robin Williams, marijuana enhances a lot of things, but it won't make you perform better in athletics. Nonetheless, Riddle turned his attention to the squared circle and became a human dynamo on the independent circuit. Known for his laid back and chill attitude backstage as much as his MMA acumen, Riddle has adapted very well to wrestling, so well NXT snatched him up before ROH or Impact could get their hands on him.
Expect big things from Riddle in NXT, and beyond.
#2. Io Shirai
The Mae Young Classic finalist and Japanese sensation has been turning heads all over the world for her insane athleticism and technical acumen.
Her style much more closely resembles Kairi Sane than Asuka, as Io loves to fly off the ropes. With WWE courting Japanese wrestlers quite heavily, she could be given a significant push once she makes her official roster debut on the NXT brand.
#3. Ricochet
How good is Ricochet? He won the NXT North American championship mere weeks into his run with the company!
Watching Ricochet in action is like watching a cartoon character. You can see the amazing things he does, but your mind doesn't want to believe it. From his five star match with Velveteen Dream, to yet ANOTHER five-star match with Adam Cole, he has done nothing but impresses since he arrived in NXT.
Expect very big things from Ricochet in NXT, and the other brands.
#4. Deonna Purrazo
Though just 24 years old, Purrazzo is already a seasoned grappler with international experience. The former cheerleader lists Lita and Trish Stratus as her inspiration for lacing up the boots.
Considered a great all-round talent, Purrazzo can mat wrestle, strike, and even takes to the skies on occasion. She has been featured on ROH television and was expected to sign with that company when she suddenly was offered an NXT contract. NXT officials know a good thing when they see it, and you'll be seeing a lot more of her in the months and years to come.
#5. Taishan Dong
Big John Studd. Andre the Giant. The Big Show. Braun Strowman. There has, and always will be, a place for seven foot tall athletes in pro wrestling.
However, no other big man has ever had the athletic pedigree that Taishan Dong possesses. Trained in martial arts and boxing since he was young, Dong was undefeated as a pro boxer until he made the switch to pro wrestling. He's also defeated MMA journeyman Bob Sapp in a kickboxing match. Simply put, there are no other big men who can move like Dong. Expect a major push for the man called "The most intimidating boxer in the world."
#6. Lacey Lane
Lane was a college athletics standout in basketball, winning the NCAA's woman of the year award while attending Shaw University on a full athletic scholarship.
She has already been a standout wrestler in Mexico and the independent scene. Her unique look and unparalleled athletic pedigree will make her one to watch in NXT and beyond.
#7. Keith Lee
Much like Samoa Joe and Kevin Owens, Keith Lee's seemingly rotund physique belies his incredible power, speed, and agility.
Keith Lee has heavyweight power but moves like a cruiserweight. He can brawl, mat wrestle, utilize submissions, and yes, even fly through the air like a man half his size.
Keith Lee's new catchprase is "Bask in my Glory." It's good advice because he is going to have a glorious future in the WWE.
There you have it; Seven new NXT stars to watch. If you have comments please leave them below, and thanks for reading!
