If his United States Championship victory on the January 11 episode of Monday Night Raw was not indication enough, what Kalisto does throughout the remainder of the year will lead to him becoming the breakout star of 2016. The masked luchador earned himself the attention of WWE Creative and management at TLC, when he delivered a breathtaking Salida del Sol from the top of a ladder. Even before that, he scored a huge upset victory over Ryback, earning himself a spot in the final eight of the WWE World Heavyweight Championship tournament at Survivor Series. With a mask that appeals him to children and merchandise-buying parents, and a flashy moveset that is reminiscent of Rey Mysterio in his prime, Kalisto appeals to different portions of the audience. That he is a consummate underdog, capable of beating top stars such as Alberto Del Rio, only helps him in the eyes of fans searching for someone to invest themselves in. His push has worked thus far. It will only intensify as 2016 continues.
Erik Beaston is a freelance pro wrestling writer who likes long walks in the park, dandelions and has not quite figured out that this introduction is not for Match.com. He resides in Parts Unknown, where he hosts weekly cookouts with Kane, The Ultimate Warrior, Papa Shango and The Boogeyman. Be jealous.
