10 NXT Stars That Have Been Squandered
9. CJ Parker
The green-fueled Parker wasn't always the most popular NXT performer, due to the over-the-top nature of his cheerful hippie gimmick. A heel turn that played upon left-leaning disgust for gas-guzzling excess and extravagance suited young Parker better. In truth, he was a far better wrestler than he got credit for, something he's proven on the indies and in New Japan since asking for his WWE release in March 2015.
Why did he ask for his release? As NXT began loading itself up with high-profile talents like Kevin Owens, Finn Balor, and Hideo Itami, Parker felt the squeeze of the numbers game, and knew his chances of being heard above the din were growing slimmer and slimmer.
Given his dedication to improving, chances are he'll get another look in the not-too-distant future.