7 Mae Young Classic 2018 Wrestlers WWE MUST Sign

3. Mercedes Martinez

Meiko Satomura
WWE

If WWE's decision not to pick Mercedes Martinez up after the first Mae Young Classic was confusing, their continued refusal to do so is absolutely bewildering, given that she shone again in this year's competition, first besting Impact veteran Ashley Rayne in the first round, then battling Japanese legend Meiko Satomura in a tournament-best clash in the second.

The case against Martinez is simple: she's 37. That shouldn't be an issue, given that many of the company's most important male main eventers are pushing (or over) 40, but it's still a concern for a promotion that isn't half as progressive as it'd like you to believe.

Now closing in one 18 years in the game, Mercedes' experience is one of her greatest strengths, and she'd be a great presence to have around NXT's crop of up-and-comers. She'd immediately be one of the brand's best in the ring, too. Martinez projects genuine menace. She's as nasty and imposing as anyone, including Baszler, and her ability to play a number of different roles (and put on a solid match with almost any opponent) would make her a vital cog.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. 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.