10 Wrestlers Whose Stock Has Risen The Most Since WWE WrestleMania 36

2. Roman Reigns

Christian Cage WrestleMania 36 AEW
WWE.com

Few were genuinely looking forward to Roman Reigns vs. Goldberg when WWE began the hype for that "dream match" heading into 'Mania 36. For one, Goldberg was an unwanted Universal Champ. Two, it seemed obvious that Reigns would kick his head in and resume his role as a similarly undesirable babyface.

How little we knew.

The match didn't happen, and Roman roared back into view at SummerSlam (post-self imposed sabbatical) by quickly remoulding himself into the 'Tribal Chief' that rules SmackDown today. Even the harshest Reigns critic would be lying through their teeth if they claimed that his composure, star quality, presence and in-ring skills don't combine to make him one of the best characters in pro wrestling today.

Roman is peerless right now. He's so much more engaging and dynamic than he was as a riot-gear-wearing hero, and he seems totally at ease with playing heel. His is a turnaround that nobody predicted. At 'Mania 37, Reigns will headline one of the nights, and deservedly so.

Believe that.

Contributor

Lifelong wrestling, video game, music and sports obsessive who has been writing about his passions since childhood. Jamie started writing for WhatCulture in 2013, and has contributed thousands of articles and YouTube videos since then. He cut his teeth penning published pieces for top UK and European wrestling read Fighting Spirit Magazine (FSM), and also has extensive experience working within the wrestling biz as a manager and commentator for promotions like ICW on WWE Network and WCPW/Defiant since 2010. Further, Jamie also hosted the old Ministry Of Slam podcast, and has interviewed everyone from Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels to Bret Hart and Trish Stratus.