10 Wrestlers WWE Tried To Push To The Top (But Failed)

2. Mr. Kennedy

Ken Anderson wasn't viewed as anything special when he arrived in WWE development league Ohio Valley Wrestling in February 2005. Jim Cornette was less than impressed with the future Mr. Kennedy, who had been wrestling for six years at that point, and refused to feature him as anything more than a bit player in the promotion. When Cornette was fired from his post (after slapping Santino Marella backstage) and Paul Heyman took over, Anderson's fortunes changed. The former ECW mastermind immediately saw dollar signs in Anderson and pushed for him to get called up to the main roster. Kennedy made his main roster debut in late 2005 and tore through the competition. He also tore his lat muscle on an overseas tour, necessitating six months on the sidelines. Kennedy returned in 2006 and feuded with Batista and The Undertaker. Kennedy was on a roll and won the Money In The Bank ladder match at WrestleMania 23. Clearly, there were still huge plans for Kennedy. He was over, having great matches and hanging with legends like The Undertaker. His promos were some of the best in the business. It made perfect sense. Unfortunately for Kennedy, he suffered another injury and lost the Money In The Bank briefcase to Edge. In 2007, Kennedy had decent matches and feuds with Jeff Hardy and Shawn Michaels and once again competed in the Money In The Bank Match at WrestleMania XXIV (he didn't win this time). After that it was a case of more bad luck for Kenendy, who repeatedly suffered injuries and had to take time off. He was released from his contract on May 29th, 2009, just four days after making his return from his latest injury layoff. This was reportedly because he dropped Randy Orton on his head and shoulders with a back suplex during his comeback match. Once thought to be the next Rock or Steve Austin, Kennedy ended up being a major disappointment to WWE management, who once had high hopes for the undoubtedly charismatic wrestler.