Grading the divisions of SmackDown following 2021 WWE Draft

How did the blue brand fare in the 2021 WWE Draft?
How did the blue brand fare in the 2021 WWE Draft?

#1. How does the SmackDown men's division shape up after the 2021 WWE Draft (continued)?

Roman Reigns has ruled SmackDown since last summer while his challengers have dwindled. Big E could've been the man to dethrone the Tribal Chief, but he was instead chosen to cash in on Lashley.

Seth Rollins and Edge had viable claims for a shot at the Universal title, but both were drafted to RAW. Constant interference marred Edge's title matches.

Other than Reigns, the only believable main-event star on SmackDown following the Draft is Drew McIntyre. He might be the man to dethrone the Head of the Table.

Whether it's McIntyre or Lesnar that beats Reigns, there aren't a lot of believable challengers for the Universal Championship after the Draft.

Hardy is a fan favorite, but his best days are behind him. He might get a title shot, but it's akin to Rey Mysterio challenging the Tribal Chief; unlikely to end in a title change.

The mid-card usually consists of a few stars that could eventually challenge the top Champ of the brand. Since the likes of Cesaro, Nakamura, and several others have been dispatched by Reigns, there aren't many real threats that could believably challenge for the title.

Kofi Kingston might get another shot due to his history as a former WWE Champion. However, that still won't fix the problem of a lack of credible challengers in the main-event scene for SmackDown.

There have been rumors that Reigns could face off against Lesnar at WrestleMania 38. The match doesn't need to feature around a title. Instead, it could focus on the relationship both men have with Paul Heyman.

Things need to freshen up on both brands following the Draft. If Reigns is still Champion heading into April, it will simply mean more months of dominating everyone.

WWE has already used John Cena and Edge as conquests for the Tribal Chief. Goldberg could also be in the cards, but he shouldn't be the one to beat Reigns.

Having someone like Keith Lee, Karrion Kross, or Balor on SmackDown could have provided future challengers. The Demon lost, but it took an interference, a wonky finish, and a no-holds-barred stipulation to vanquish him.

SmackDown needs more potential stars that could feasibly beat Roman Reigns. That didn't happen in the 2021 WWE Draft.

Overall grade for SmackDown's men's division - C

How did Ric Flair spend $1500 at a pizza place? More details here

Quick Links

App download animated image Get the free App now