10 Biggest Signings WWE Made In 2016
Seriously, who is there left for WWE to sign?
It isn't uncommon for WWE to score a major signing or two each year with the past few years being prime examples. When Triple H signed Finn Bálor, Hideo Itami, and Kevin Owens to developmental deals back in the summer of 2014, it was seen as one of the biggest talent acquisition periods for WWE, especially since all have gone on to amazing super stardom both in WWE and NXT.
But by the time 2016 is officially over with, it is quite possible that this year will be remembered as being the biggest ever for WWE's acquisition of world renowned talent. This is something that would have never even been conceived a mere five years ago, with a vast majority of stars on Raw, SmackDown Live, and NXT having roots in Ring of Honor, TNA, New Japan Pro Wrestling, and other independent promotions.
Perhaps Mauro Ranallo's December 2015 signing and subsequent SmackDown debut was a sign of things to come this year, and WWE didn't disappoint in bringing in a number of notable, unexpected stars over the course of 2016. This includes wrestlers fans were unfamiliar with prior to this past year as well wrestlers who hadn't been seen in WWE for several years. Needless to say, 2017 will have its work cut out for it if this illustrious list is any indication.
10. Cathy Kelley
WWE didn't luck out solely with wrestlers in 2016. They have been setting their sights on great broadcasters outside the industry for years, including Renee Young and Kyle Edwards from The Score. Young is one of the most beloved on-air personalities in WWE today, which comes as no surprise considering how charming and charismatic she is.
Another individual who shares those same qualities is Cathy Kelley. She was best known for her work on AfterBuzz talking Raw and NXT prior to coming to WWE, and her natural gift as an interviewer/host was apparent. Throw in how she is drop-dead gorgeous and there was zero question she was the perfect fit for WWE.
Kelley was officially signed by the organization at the onset of 2016 and she made her televised debut over WrestleMania 32 weekend. Since then, she has been prominently featured on WWE's YouTube channel and has also done work with NXT as a correspondent. Similar to Young, it's possible that as she continues to prove herself, she will take on a larger role on WWE TV within the next year.