10 WWE NXT Main Roster Call Ups That Must Happen In 2017

4. Samoa Joe

Samoa Joe
WWE.com

It feels like Samoa Joe’s fantastic NXT run is coming to an end. Rival Shinsuke Nakamura has now defeated him in two consecutive title matches, and with two reigns in the bag, there’s nothing left for Joe to do. He has consistently been one of the brand’s most enjoyable performers since making the jump from the independents, and he’s more than ready to play a big role on the main roster.

There’s a strong chance we’ll see Joe make his main roster debut within the next few weeks. He’d immediately be one of Raw or SmackDown’s best heels, and his intense personality and blistering promos would soon get him over. Few WWE superstars are as comfortable with their act as Joe is, and, if handled correctly, there’s no reason he can’t be a future main eventer.

The only thing Joe lacks is the fabled “superstar look,” but Kevin Owens’ ascension proves that aesthetics just aren’t important as they used to be. Theoretically, there shouldn’t be anything holding Joe back from becoming a major star, and it’d benefit either major brand to have a villain as imposing as Joe around. He’s not the tallest guy around, but Joe carries more menace and threat than any of WWE’s current giants, and he hits harder than anyone else on the roster. Put him in the spotlight, and Joe will shine.

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Channel Manager
Channel Manager

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.