Predicting The WWE Main Roster Success Of Every Post-WrestleMania 34 Call-Up

1. Bobby Lashley

Iconic Duo
WWE.com

Pros: Technically not an NXT call-up, but that in itself should shed light on the extent to which WWE perceives the returning prodigal son as a star. Lashley is almost a satirical sight gag aimed at Vince McMahon's love of the gigantic. His physique alone comes with a guarantee of multiple opportunities. Boasting a WBF body with worker's shoes, if his unseen and naturally underrated Impact stint is any indication, we may be in for something special from Lashley - especially since he has hardened his soft promo delivery, mirroring his all-round maturity as a performer.

Cons: The perils of being a 'Vince's Boy' are clear: if transparently over-produced and micromanaged, a vocal section of the audience will reject what promises to be a typically needy push. Lashley re-enters WWE as a different man, but this is a different WWE, a WWE loaded with hardcore darling acts fans may resent Lashley for pummelling en route to the top. But hey, since fan sentiment hardly matters...

Prediction: Lashley showed much personality in the heel role throughout his second Impact stint - and, since Roman Reigns remains the real Vince's Boy, there's an actual chance of Lashley turning and thus taking the paradoxical route to popularity.

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Contributor
Contributor

Michael Sidgwick is an editor, writer and podcaster for WhatCulture Wrestling. With over seven years of experience in wrestling analysis, Michael was published in the influential institution that was Power Slam magazine, and specialises in providing insights into All Elite Wrestling - so much so that he wrote a book about the subject. You can order Becoming All Elite: The Rise Of AEW on Amazon. Possessing a deep knowledge also of WWE, WCW, ECW and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Michael’s work has been publicly praised by former AEW World Champions Kenny Omega and MJF, and current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. When he isn’t putting your finger on why things are the way they are in the endlessly fascinating world of professional wrestling, Michael wraps his own around a hand grinder to explore the world of specialty coffee. Follow Michael on X (formerly known as Twitter) @MSidgwick for more!