Power Ranking All 16 Competitors In The WWE UK Tournament
Who will be Pete Dunne's next big challenger?
One of the highlights of WWE in 2017 was the introduction of the UK division. A two-day tournament in January crowned Tyler Bate as the first ever WWE United Kingdom Champion, after a series of highly entertaining matches against the stunning backdrop of the Empress Ballroom in Blackpool. Bate would later go on to NXT TakeOver: Chicago, losing the title against Pete Dunne in the best match of the year.
Dunne has since held the title for over twelve months and is in the hunt for a new opponent. Right on cue, WWE is set to hold another UK Tournament, starting with eight first round matches at the Download Festival from 8-10 June. The qualifiers will go on to compete at the Royal Albert Hall on 18 June, with the eventual winner earning a title shot against Dunne the next day.
Just as in the case of last year's tournament, the bracket is packed with stars who will be instantly recognisable to anyone who follows the independent wrestling circuit in Britain. The first round matches already set up a selection of incredibly interesting clashes, with many more set to follow as the tournament continues.
So let's take a look at the tournament field and see who the most likely winner will be.
16. Amir Jordan
Amir Jordan, who is referred to as The Bhangra Bad Boy, is a young high-flyer with just three years of experience in the wrestling business. Nonetheless, he's a bright talent who clearly has a future - especially as he has been handpicked by WWE for a coveted spot in the second UK Tournament.
The Yorkshire man's wrestling pedigree is enviable too, with former WWE star Lance Storm and UK legend Marty Jones responsible for having a hand in his training.
However, Jordan is unlikely to make it to the Royal Albert Hall. His first round draw pits him against Scouse technical expert Zack Gibson, who is a real contender to win the entire tournament. In this respect, Jordan has clearly been set up as first round cannon fodder, unless WWE plans to pull off a major surprise for the crowds at Download Festival.