8 Big Concerns Heading Into WWE TLC 2017

7. Diminishing Asuka's Debut

The Shield Entrance
WWE.com

There's a lot wrong with the way WWE book their wrestlers in 2017, and their inability to effectively debut new wrestlers and complete failure in protecting superstar auras are among the writers' biggest flaws. Unfortunately, both could come into play when Asuka hits the ring on Sunday night.

'The Empress Of Tomorrow' is a special talent. She's as good as any of her peers in the ring, but her poise, presence, and mystique are what really set her apart. If WWE book her the way she was handled in NXT, then Asuka will unquestionably become the company's biggest female star, but that's a huge "if."

Her star power must be protected at all costs, but the signs are ominous. Shinsuke Nakamura and Bobby Roode have both had theirs chipped away through impotent main roster introductions. Each went 50/50 with Dolph Ziggler on their pay-per-view debut, and while Asuka and Emma have had great matches in the past, there's no need for this to be anything more than a squash.

Asuka is destined for bigger things, while Emma, seemingly, is not. She's there to make 'The Empress' look good, not take her shine away, and there's no need for her to be anything more than a rag doll. God forbid WWE lose their minds and actually put Emma over, though. The world would burn.

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.