A short time ago, SmackDown General Manager Daniel Bryan hopped on the Twitter machine to tell us about his new concept for running things in “The Land of Opportunity” - a list of the Top 10 Superstar, voted on by the roster, which he and commissioner Shane McMahon will use... somehow... in making matches and other decisions.
Officially introducing the #SmackdownTop10. A vote BY the Superstars, FOR the betterment of #SDLive and the enjoyment of the @WWE Universe. #YesYesYes pic.twitter.com/e1P0Cn6v9v
— Daniel Bryan (@WWEDanielBryan) January 30, 2018
“On SmackDown LIVE, we’re always exploring new and different ways to make the show more interesting for our fans and more engaging for our Superstars. Which is why I’m proud to announce for the first time ever, the official SmackDown Top Ten list.
This week, the Superstars of SmackDown LIVE will vote on who they think is the most deserving of future opportunities. Criteria includes most talented, locker room leadership and who has the most athletic skill on the roster.
Now there’s a couple of ground rules for this process. The most important rule is simple - neither Shane McMahon nor myself will have a vote. This isn’t about us. This is about the SmackDown locker room having their voices heard. The other rule is probably obvious, but just so we’re clear - Superstars can’t vote for themselves.
This is going to be so cool! I’ve always wanted to see a Top Ten list from our talent. It’s going to be a huge asset for Shane and I when we’re determining matches and constructing the show. I can not wait to get started... YES! YES! YES!”
This feels like new territory for wrestling storytelling (feel free to correct me if I’m overlooking something in the comments below). Other promotions have done rankings a la other combat sports, but those weren’t polls determined by other wrestlers. So while I’m not sure how this plays out in kayfabe, that fact alone makes this really interesting.
What do you think, Cagesiders? Good idea? How do you think it plays out on Tuesday nights?