50 Best Wrestlers Of The 2020s (So Far)
35. Chad Gable
From risible gimmicks and short jokes in the late-2010s to one of the most respected performers on WWE's roster, Chad Gable has spent the 2020s proving that talent, timing, and sheer perseverance can eventually win out - even in the chaos of WWE creative.
A former Olympian and natural grappler, Gable’s in-ring credentials were never in doubt. But after years of Shorty G-adjacent misfires, the former American Alpha man was forced to rebuild himself once and for all. What followed was a masterclass in steady character evolution powered by exceptional bell-to-bell work.
Having gotten himself, Otis and the concept of Alpha Academy over as heels and then faces, Gable’s solo chase for Gunther’s Intercontinental Championship in 2023 turned heads. He brought real emotion to the underdog role, especially in his touching, tear-filled match in front of his family - a modern-day TV classic that reminded fans why the secondary strap once meant so much and now did again. Their contests were consistently excellent; case of heartfelt storytelling without being overindulgent.
Snapping under the weight of near-misses and perceived disrespect, Gable turned heel in early 2024 - lashing out at longtime ally Otis, cutting ties with Sami Zayn, and transforming into a vindictive technical bully. His ring work remained flawless, but he brought back the edge and venom that used to come ready-made with array of suplexes and strikes. Gable became the go-to opponent to help launch complex or unproven acts, from the cryptic chaos of The Wyatt Sicks to crossover newcomer Penta in early-2025. His versatility - able to believably battle giants, flyers, or fellow technicians or work as the preposterous El Grande Americano - makes him invaluable in a roster packed with specialists.