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Last year, we ranked our favorites in all of NXT. Since then the roster has had a few main roster call-ups and some solid additions. Have they changed your list any? I found myself battling between two lists: in-ring talent vs. best characters. Ultimately, I think in-ring talent won out.
Let's take a look.
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#5 Corey Graves
I'd be remiss if I didn't get him on this list. Corey has been on color commentary sine just last December, and has been a stabilizing force in this realm. While his competition on other shows isn't off the charts, Graves is a refreshing change from the usual nonsense we are accustomed to hearing. He's got a great voice, has in-ring knowledge, and can make matches feel important. Props to WWE for finding him a place within the company since his in-ring retirement.
#4 Sami Zayn
While I sometimes find it difficult to connect with Sami, his stories are always the best. His love/hate feud with Neville was one of the best storylines in 2014. Currently, he's taking on Kevin Owens in yet another chapter of their never-ending feud. In the ring, the guy is pretty good. No wait, he's freaking amazing in the ring! He's on that elite level of "can't miss matches".
#3 - Finn Balor
Another stud in the ring, Balor is an all-around talent who won't be in NXT much longer. While some find his entrance a bit too slow/dramatic, I love it. Undertaker is on his way out, so we need a new 5-10 minute extravagant entrance to replace his. He has "star" written all over him, so enjoy his presence here while you can, people.
#2 - Sasha Banks
Last year, the hit against Sasha was she needed more time to round out her in-ring and promo skills. Time has passed, and it's been kind to her, both of those areas have much improved. With a diverse moveset her matches against Charlotte, and the championship 4-way were top notch. She's still Champion, so at least for the near future, "The Boss" will continue to rock in NXT.
#1- Kevin Owens
Details.
As a fan, I love paying attention to the small things, and Owens is a master at them. He's a heel that truly does bad things. To be a great heel, it doesn't require screaming and spoon-feeding the audience. More effectively, it can be as small as a disrespectful pen flip, a few drops of water, or sneaky kick on your way out of the arena. Owens just "gets" wrestling, and it's a pure joy watching him work. His talent in the ring and on the mic go without saying. The guy is the NXT Champion already for a reason. Fight. Owens. Fight.
Off the list:
Charlotte - Aside from still putting on good matches, she's just kind of hanging around. Charlotte's done all she could in NXT, so it's time to call her up.
Tyler Breeze - With the injection of poison new talent, Breeze has been lost in the wind.
Bayley - Still very much enjoy Bayley's matches, but her gimmick has become a bit stale for me. If it's any consolation she's number six, just missing the cut.
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Let's see your list!
All photos via WWE.com