10 Wrestlers Who Should Replace Shelton Benjamin As SmackDown's New Star
2. Bobby Roode
One of the most important, decorated, and celebrated wrestlers in TNA, Bobby Roode has finally arrived in NXT. After making a couple of fleeting appearances in segments at the last two Takeover events, Roode took to the ring last week with a microphone and the most ludicrously brilliant entrance theme in WWE history. His message was clear: I am a megastar, NXT needs me, and I’m here to dominate.
Roode is a near-perfect WWE wrestler. Having worked for TNA for over a decade, he has unparalleled experience working a sports entertainment style, and, most importantly, he knows how to work a television audience. Roode’s workrate is solid, and with his look, intensity and charisma, he has all the tools needed to play a major role not just in NXT, but also on the main roster.
At 39-years-old, WWE may look at cutting Roode’s NXT stint short and calling him up sooner rather than later. He has “top guy” written all over him, and on his best day, Roode is one of the best heels in the business. Throw him on the SmackDown roster and he’d be capable of putting on a good match and compelling feud program with just about anyone else they have.