10 Wrestlers Who Made Their WWE Debut In Marquee Matches

AJ Styles is a great example of a beloved indy icon who fully transitioned into a WWE superstar. He may not have been the first person to do so with performers like Daniel Bryan walking the same line, but it must be said that no other indy worker has had such an impressive debut.

Styles excelled after leaving TNA with a new purpose to light up the Japanese wrestling scene. What was already a well established and respected talent became a mega star and easily the biggest name in wrestling not controlled by WWE. But his departure from NJPW caused a stir in the wrestling world as fans began to speculate about a possible appearance in the 2016 Royal Rumble.

When the number three position was revealed and the fans erupted into a legendary pop it was clear that he had made the right move. To debut in WWE nowadays traditionally involves an NXT stint. But Styles skipped the usual process entirely and was instantly put into a strong spot on the main roster. He quickly felt important and had a great showing in the Rumble. Afterwards his career with WWE would only grow from strength to strength.

It truly is one of the best debuts a wrestler could ask for. A huge event, a massive reaction and the backing of the WWE. After this debut they must have known they had something phenomenal on their hands.