WWE Draft 2017: 5 Things That Will Happen (And 5 That Won't)

2. The NXT Call-Ups WON’T Be Major

nakamura raw
WWE.com

Last year's WWE draft featured six NXT call-ups, and recent reports suggest that the company’s developmental brand will feature again this year. This is a perfect chance for WWE to introduce new wrestlers to the main roster without much effort, but as with 2016, 2017’s draft will likely see NXT’s biggest stars passed over.

Shinsuke Nakamura is expected to join the main roster soon, but not as part of the draft. This means that Bobby Roode, the NXT Champion, is likely staying put. NXT’s tag division is still too thin to survive the likes of DIY and The Revival leaving for Raw or SmackDown, and current Women’s Champion Asuka was recently advertised as part of NXT’s UK tour in June.

We got Finn Bálor last time around, but don't expect anyone of his calibre in the next draft. Instead, look for WWE to bring up the likes of Elias Samson and the popular Tye Dillinger. Any major call-ups will likely be reserved for the post-WrestleMania Raw (or even 'Mania itself), and just like last time, those getting their hopes up for major NXT draftees are only setting themselves up for a fall.

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.