Big Names In List of Potential NXT Call-Ups

NXT currently plays host to some of the biggest names in pro wrestling, many of them far bigger than the brand’s “developmental” moniker would suggest.

While Triple H is calling NXT a separate brand and challenging the conventional wisdom of it being a training ground for future stars, there’s no doubt that much of its talent is ready for a much larger stage.

This week’s Wrestling Observer (subscription required) offered an interesting hint as to which stars would be jumping to the main roster soon. The class under Terry Taylor at WWE’s performance center plays host to the stars WWE feels are “almost ready” for the big spotlight, and there are some big names there heading into WrestleMania season.

The current class includes Shinsuke Nakamura, Andrade “Cien” Almas, Alexander Wolfe, TM-61, Hideo Itami, Tommaso Ciampa, Johnny Gargano, Chris Hero (now Cassius Ohno once again), Elias Samson and Tye Dillinger. Names like Nakamura, Dillinger, and the #DIY members are no surprise, though fans will certainly have questions about the readiness of names like Samson, or the current gimmick for someone like Almas.

Notable absentees from that list include Bobby Roode, Eric Young, Samoa Joe, and Austin Aries. Their WWE deals are different, and don’t include performance center training, as the company feels they are already beyond the point of needing that advice.

One surprise, however, is the lack of the Revival, who are currently in NXT’s next group down. I guess multiple match-of-the-year candidates aren’t enough for WWE to consider you a “top guy.” Fellow names in that secondary group include Tino Sabbatelli, Riddick Moss, Damo (now known as Killian Dain), Authors of Pain, Tommy End, Roderick Strong, Dan Matha, Oney Lorcan, Wesley Blake, and Buddy Murphy.

With WrestleMania season getting into gear and the Royal Rumble just around the corner, any number of the above names could be in line for a big debut soon.

Personally, I say WWE is absolutely missing the boat if they don’t have Tye Dillinger in the Rumble at #10.

Do you feel these names are main roster-ready? Or would you prefer to see them stay in NXT for a while longer? Let us know in the comments, or over on Facebook!