10 Predictions For WWE's Brand Split 2016

8. NXT Will Not Be Raided

WWE Draft 2
WWE.com

There’s a clear need for the WWE to expand its talent pool if it intends to split its roster over two separate brands. It often feels like there aren’t even enough wrestlers and stories to fill out an episode of Raw without the show losing momentum, and the strain’s only going to increase with the brand split in-place.

This has led to speculation that the WWE will look to NXT to fill these gaps: stripping the company’s school system of its top assets and replenishing that roster with fresh recruits from the Performance Centre.

While this is definitely conceivable, NXT has become so much more than a mere developmental territory. It’s a unique brand with its own image and a loyal fanbase, and there’s a real need to protect it as a touring company.

The draft will probably see a number of NXT faces make the main roster jump, but don’t count on anything too drastic. WWE won’t want to damage their most exciting show by swiping most of their roster.

Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.