Simply put, Kevin Steen has the potential to become this generations Stone Cold Steve Austin. Now, that may sound like a typically overblown internet wrestling community remark, but its not. Steens success on the independent scene came largely because of his anti-authoritarian views. His whole run as Ring of Honors World Champion was eerily reminiscent of Austins stint atop the WWE. While Stone Cold had Mr. McMahon, Steen was directly in contention with Jim Cornette. Furthermore, Steen has a unique look to him. Some, like Cornette, have hurled words defaming words at the unique superstar for his physique -- or lack thereof. However, Steens lack of a perfect body and generally non-cookie-cutter appearance should be considered a great positive for the superstar. Simply put, all fans want to see is something new and unique. Kevin Steen provides that instantly, as he looks nothing like anything within the WWE right now. On top of his unique look, Steen is a masterful performer inside the ring and on the microphone. If his appearance can be the initial hook to grab fans, his wrestling and storytelling ability should be enough to hold their attention. Steen has proved on countless occasions that he can go inside the ring. Despite not looking it, he is exactly what WWE seeks in a superstar. He can talk, he can perform, he can turn wrestling from an entertainment into a storytelling art form. While Steen is the last of the NXT Five to debut, look for him to make a quick and sudden impact when he does. Nothing he does is done quietly, and Steen will surely become a major player within NXT quickly. From there, its up to him to continue to make an impact, because like Cesaro, Kevin Steen has the potential to become a leader for the Next Generation. Only time will tell what comes of Steens potential, as well as the Next Generation as a whole. However, the eight aforementioned superstars may be destined for greatness. Will these competitors lead WWE into a new era, or are the claims of a Next Generation just hot air and empty hype? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Douglas Scarpa is a freelance writer, independent filmmaker, art school graduate, and pro wrestling aficionado -- all of which mean he is in financial ruin. He has no backup plan to speak of, yet maintains his abnormally high spirits. If he had only listened to the scorn of his childhood teachers, he wouldn't be in this situation.
