Backstage Update On WWE's Draft 2021 Plans

The latest on this year's WWE Draft, which starts on SmackDown tonight.

by Andy H Murray
WWE Draft 2016
WWE Network

Less than 12 hours remain before the 2021 WWE Draft kicks off on tonight's episode of SmackDown, but it sounds like the promotion is still putting its plans together.

Dave Meltzer notes in this week's Wrestling Observer Newsletter that the only picks currently set in stone are the top choices required by FOX and USA Network. Beyond that, much of the Draft remains up in the air.

The report states that NXT is still expected to feature heavily in the annual roster reshuffle, but this could change in an instant. As far as potential candidates for a main roster call-up go, Dakota Kai, Aliyah (who hasn't appeared for NXT since July), and Xia Li are considered leading candidates. Li is of particular interest, as WWE would like to build a Chinese star following the UFC's success with former Women's Straightweight Champion Zhang Weili.

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As previously covered, LA Knight and Hit Row have both been mentioned as NXT acts that could potentially feature in the Draft.

The 2021 WWE Draft is set to conclude on next week's episode of Raw (4 October), though it will likely feature several supplemental picks outwith the television broadcasts, as was the case in 2020.

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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.