10 WWE Stars To Replace Daniel Bryan As Intercontinental Champion

8. Sami Zayn

Having recently pushed US Champion John Cena close on the latest edition of Raw, the former ROH star has proven himself worthy of a championship reign. Many would argue that he is simply too new a face to be entrusted with carrying the Intercontinental strap, but Zayn has an uncanny way of gathering instant crowd support with his natural babyface mannerisms and exciting high-flying style. Putting the championship on Sami would also be something of a statement from the WWE. There is no reason the promotion should put any less faith in the current crop of NXT stars than they did five years previously. Wade Barrett's group were put over immensely as a dangerous incoming force, but most would consider Zayn and co. leagues ahead of their predecessors in terms of both ability and popularity. Ultimately, there's no reason not to give Sami his much-deserved shot. He'd certainly surprise more than a few doubters if given the chance.