20 Absolute Best Wrestlers In The World Right Now

6. WALTER

Daniel Bryan Best In The World
WWE.com

Lord knows what version of WALTER we'll get in WWE.

The early signs are promising, and he wasn't shy of unleashing his deadly chest-bursting chops at NXT UK's Blackpool TV tapings, but whether or not the company allow this brutish approach to continue long-term is another matter. Nonetheless, the Austrian's arrival gives the British brand a much-needed star. His presence elevates the brand, and if Pete Dunne is to depart for Orlando in the near future, WALTER's the man to carry the show forward.

WALTER's nickname, 'Der Ringgeneral,' is as simple as his approach to wrestling, and it tells you all you need to know about his character. He's out to impose his will on anyone unfortunate enough to face him. He commands the squared circle like no other, filling every inch with presence, not physical size, and he cuts angles and controls space like a man with twice his 13 years' experience. His chops are the stiffest in the business. Every facet of his offence is executed with simple, brutal efficiency, and while he is a stylistic throwback, nothing WALTER does feels dated.

He'd be just as home headlining Madison Square Garden versus Bruno Sammartino decades ago as he is shining in today's fast-flowing indie environment, and we can't wait to see him start in the world's biggest promotion.

2018 ranking: 6.

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.