10 Next Big Things In Wrestling You Need To Know
6. Deonna Purrazzo (WWE)
NXT's women's division is in good health. Divisive she may be, but Shayna Baszler is an effective alpha bully as the division's ace. Her next opponent, Mia Yim, is going to break out at TakeOver. Heel Io Shirai looks a lot more interesting than face Io Shirai, Candice LeRae is as solid as ever, Bianca Belair looks like a killer, and the likes of Dakota Kai and Tegan Nox are ready to return and take spots once their injuries heal.
This goes some way to explaining Deonna Purrazzo's lack of use. 'The Virtuosa' has only made NXT television twice since signing in May 2018, with the last of those appearances coming that August. A shame, but there isn't enough room at the table for every talented performer at the same time.
When she finally goes full-time on TV, Purrazzo will immediately be one of NXT's best technicians. She's smoother than butter, has great technique, possesses a strong grasp of psychology, and may build her character around the 'Fujiwara Armbar Specialist' nickname. Stylistically, she could become a more scientific Baszler, though she's already more refined than the majority of her peers.
Key Match: vs. Io Shirai (WWE Mae Young Classic - 17 October 2018) (PAYWALL)