10 Things Happening In WWE Right Now You Wouldn't Have Believed 12 Months Ago

6. Sami Zayn A Top Heel

NXT TakeOver WarGames
WWE

Ever since Sami Zayn made the move to WWE's main roster, the talented performer has been a victim of circumstance, poor creative and an overall lack of direction. Despite being a focal point of NXT during his tenure on the gold brand, the former NXT Champion has been left to wallow in main stage mediocrity.

Underutilised and underappreciated, Zayn's lacklustre run on Raw in 2016 saw many fans clamouring for 'The Underdog from the Underground' to make the switch to SmackDown. Sadly, even that didn't do much for his momentum; Zayn's move simply saw him reprise the same role with a blue backdrop.

That would all come to a spectacular end at Hell in a Cell in October. With Shane McMahon in mid-flight, free falling off the Hell in a Cell structure, Zayn shockingly pulled Kevin Owens out of harm's way. As a result, Shane O'Mac went crashing through the table, allowing Owens to pick up the win.

The huge assist from Zayn made him an instant villain, while his association with his former nemesis has also made him a top tier star on SmackDown. A full-blown heel for the first time in his career, the new attitude and allegiance with Owens has finally given Zayn direction - and that direction is up.

Contributor
Contributor

Occasional wrestler, full-time gym rat and lifelong lover of the grapple game. Would probably buy you a shot of Jack at the bar in exchange for witty banter...and preferably more Jack. @MartynGrant88 for more wrestling-related musings and weight room wisecracks!