10 Things That Must Happen Before WrestleMania 35
9. A Happy Rusev Day
With reference to the previous point, Rusev would've made a fine United States Champion. He's a good-to-great wrestler with a fun moveset, and he has stumbled into a money act with 'Rusev Day,' but WWE decided to forgo his elevation at 'Mania. Instead, 'The Bulgarian Brute' was pinned by Jinder Mahal, and after losing a number one contenders' match two nights later, he's now firmly out of the picture.
Rusev's situation sucks. One of the company's most popular acts he may be, but WWE still think he's a heel, and a push doesn't seem to be forthcoming. This is despite his status as a top merch-shifter, his chants dominating every SmackDown show, and his endearing value as an entertainer.
Rusev Day is a great gimmick, but it'll die without a push. Granted, it wouldn't be the first time WWE have wasted a beloved star, but it's time to rethink the big man's position. Wrestling The Undertaker in Saudi Arabia is a solid start. He'll lose, but if Rusev looks good in doing so, it could be the start of something greater.