10 WWE Success Stories Absolutely NOBODY Saw Coming

10. Bayley Cuts Down Her Hugging Past In Lockdown

Down in NXT, The Hugger routinely overcame the odds and forged an unbreakable bond with the black and gold faithful, going from loveable underdog to eventual NXT Women's Champion before leaving the brand in 2016.

And while it wasn't exactly all plain sailing for the valiant character upon arriving on the main roster scene, this positive, peppy, babyface version of Bayley still experienced more than a few highlights during her time as part of the red and blue shows.

With the former Raw and SmackDown Women's Champion also sitting as an ever-present hero for youngsters in particular to look up to, few ever really expected to see Bayley embrace the dark side. However, not only did the pissed off star kiss goodbye to both her ponytail and Bayley Buddies in October 2019, but she also went on to unexpectedly excel in the role of cocky, trash-talking top heel in the division.

In truth, the Bayley persona likely was in need of a bit of refresh at the time of her shocking turn. But very few honestly imagined the long-time natural face would possess an equally organic ability to frustrate and annoy the masses.

The Role Model absolutely did, though, and her PC and ThunderDome reign of terror is now one many look back on fondly as perhaps her most successful run to date.