10 Most Important Superstars On The Road To WWE Summerslam 2014

10. Wade 'Bad News' Barrett

The potential of Wade Barrett has never been in doubt. During an era in which new superstars were fast-tracked to the main event, the one-time leader of Nexus looked destined for a prestigious run after being given a marquee Survivor Series WWE Title match against Randy Orton in 2010. John Cena was the special guest referee in an encounter dubbed as 'Free or Fired'; the result of the match determined whether Cena would be forced to extend his term as a Nexus member or lose his job. Barrett lost what was an interesting spectacle, yet much of what followed rendered the story line redundant as Cena made an ultra-quick 'comeback' to Raw. However, Barrett's performances during NXT, as leader of Nexus and during his short-but-sweet role as main event player gave many cause to believe that he had the potential to carry the biggest prize in the game sooner rather than later. Fast-forward to 2014. A needed change in booking philosophy, brand changes, injury, and modifications to Barrett's persona have meant that what is now the WWE World Heavyweight Championship has remained elusive to WWE's most prominent English superstar. It is fair to say, however, that many still feel Barrett is the man who can carry the company's main title one day, and the traction he has gained with his 'Bad News' gimmick has added a sinister humour to the typically aggressive and manipulative character we remember from his Nexus days. There are a number of opportunities ahead for Barrett, whose road to Summerslam will be watched with a keen eye. His 'Bad News' persona has undoubtedly contributed to something of a 'cool' factor, which could bode well for a possible baby face turn somewhere down the line. The beauty of this is that WWE has not yet portrayed Barrett in a fan favourite role, which could mean that maximum impact could be delivered should they look to make that change. Barrett's potential in such a role has been emphasised by his recent performances on Raw, and most specifically his appearance during Raw in his homeland at the O2 arena. During that very show, Stephanie McMahon mentioned Bad News Barrett as a potential WWE World Heavyweight Champion. The significance of Barrett being mentioned in this bracket should not be disregarded. So, what next for Barrett? The current Intercontinental Champion has a title bout with Rob Van Dam lined up for the Payback pay-per-view. Both men are synonymous with the Intercontinental belt, and while Van Dam's days as a world title-winner are more than likely over, Barrett's are yet to come. Having only recently won the belt at Extreme Rules, could Van Dam be about to regain the title in order to facilitate a Money in the Bank win for Bad News Barrett?