7 WWE Superstar Shakeup Moves That Haven’t Worked

7. Kalisto (To Raw)

Kalisto Elias
WWE.com

When Kalisto (who was going nowhere on SmackDown) was drafted to Raw, it represented hope for his career. On Raw at least, the high-flyer could seek solace in the Cruiserweight ranks and still perform on 205 Live. There was a definite upside to the brand switch.

That hasn't happened. Aside from an instantly forgettable Dumpster Match win over Braun Strowman, Kalisto has done little else on the red show. The mini-feud with Strowman wasn't even sustainable to begin with and didn't exactly play to Kalisto's strengths. Put the guy in the Cruiserweight Title hunt, for crying out loud.

Kalisto would be a fine opponent for Neville. He's someone casual WWE fans recognise, can work the desired style and could help extend the Geordie's brilliant heel run. When he's losing to bigger guys and being used as the dreaded 'jobber to the stars', Kalisto has little purpose.

Wasn't his move to Raw supposed to address that?

6. Mickie James (To Raw)

Mickie James
WWE.com

No, at 37 years of age WWE are not going to build their women's division around Mickie James. That's not the main issue with her meaningless shift from SmackDown to Raw. Problems crop up when analysing just how little James has been allowed to contribute on the flagship show. More than ever, Mickie is just there to make up numbers.

How many matches has James starred in on Raw since the Superstar Shakeup? The answer is just six. On Mondays, she isn't doing anything of note, so wouldn't she be better on SmackDown feuding against someone like Naomi? At least then she could use her veteran status to put the Women's Champ over and lend some credibility to Naomi's reign.

Instead, WWE seem determined to showcase Lana, when the 'Ravishing Russian' blatantly isn't ready to work full matches. She'd be someone Mickie could help too. Get Lana on the road with James at house shows, gaining experience along the way. Or, is it better that James continues doing nothing on Raw?

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Lifelong wrestling, video game, music and sports obsessive who has been writing about his passions since childhood.