10 Biggest Wasted Talents On The WWE Roster In 2017
Why hire da Vinci if you won't allow him to paint?
With over 100 active superstars on the WWE pay roll, it's impossible for every member of the roster to receive the rocket push of Shinsuke Nakamura or Brock Lesnar. Nevertheless, there are countless members of the WWE staff that could certainly be used in a far better light.
From the big time signings that have been left to flounder in the mid-card to the legends of the main event scene that are forced to sit on the sidelines, the WWE has made a bad habit of folding with a winning hand. It's a problem that has reached almost epidemic proportions, as shown by the recent release of uber talented Austin Aries.
Sadly, this is far from a new issue to arise this year. Last year alone saw the likes of Wade Barrett, Ryback, Del Rio, The Dudleyz, Alex Riley, and Cody Rhodes all left to wallow in mediocrity. Every one of those names could and should have been given gold, a push, or at least a chance; instead, they were all given their release papers.
However, that's not to say the situation is a lost cause. Jinder Mahal is living proof that you can rebound from near jobber status to become the very top of the food chain. Here's ten examples of wasted talents we hope get the Mahal treatment sooner rather than later.
10. Cesaro
Since Cesaro debuted in WWE, he has undergone several subtle gimmick changes. Despite strong fan support throughout and obvious in-ring skill, 'The Swiss Superman' has never been able to break the proverbial glass ceiling.
His big win in the first-ever Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal seemed like a huge turning point in his career. The decision to then put him with Paul Heyman as the newest 'Paul Heyman Guy' seemed like he would finally get his big push. However, the association was soon dropped. He was also advised to hold back his use of the 'Cesaro Swing' as it was getting too popular. Yes, you read that right.
Nevertheless, Cesaro continued moving forward and has since had tag team success with both Tyson Kidd and Sheamus in recent years; however, Cesaro has still yet to have a main event run as a singles performer. A switch to SmackDown would be the perfect change of scenery for Cesaro to start afresh and refocus his sights on World Championship gold.
With Brock Lesnar rumoured to be taking a step back into UFC after WrestleMania, a reunion with Paul Heyman would be a logical move that benefits both men. Meanwhile, Heyman's stellar work outside the ring would also remedy Cesaro's alleged short-comings on the mic, making them the perfect foil for Nakamura and co.