10 Wrestlers Who'll Become WWE Champions For The First Time In 2017

3. Austin Aries

Big Cass Universal
WWE Network

Austin Aries’ transition from NXT to the main roster is imminent. Though currently recovering from a broken orbital bone, The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived has already slotted into 205 Live’s announce team. He has made no secret of his desire to compete in the Cruiserweight Division and take Rich Swann’s title, and while Neville might be ahead of him in the pecking order, we should see Aries in a 205 Live ring sooner rather than later.

Neville makes for a great addition to the division, but Aries should be the figurehead. He’s not only a fantastic wrestler, but one of the most charismatic guys on the roster, and an excellent cocky heel. He’ll bring some much-needed personality and intrigue to proceedings, and if creative have their heads on straight, Aries will be an instant major player on the Cruiserweight show.

It’s unclear exactly how much longer Aries will be out of action for, but he’s expected to return sometime in early 2017. He has been one of NXT’s most entertaining acts since turning heel on No Way Jose, and there’s no reason to assume this won’t continue on the main roster. Aries will most likely become Cruiserweight Champion at least once in 2017, and his presence will be vital in drawing new eyes to WWE’s struggling division.

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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.