Number 7- Hideo Itami
Hideo Itami has just debuted on the main roster, having been down in NXT for a good amount of time. During his stay in developmental, the former Kenta Kobayashi did not win any Championships. He did, however, manage to explore roles as both a face and a heel and connected with fans, who consistently asked for him to win the title and/or get called up.
Despite his recent history with injuries, Itami made his name by being a badass worker in Japan before making his mark in WWE. In fact, Itami created the ‘Go To Sleep (GTS)’ finishing move that CM Punk used whilst he was in WWE before his controversial exit from the company.
Itami was placed on the 205 Live roster and will compete with many up-and-coming competitors trying to make their mark in WWE. Superstars like Jack Gallagher, Brian Kendrick, Mustafa Ali, Drew Gulak, Tony Nese and Enzo Amore are all featured superstars on the brand. Coupled with the expected debut of Rockstar Spud from Impact Wrestling and the other superstars not mentioned, Itami has a lot of potential to shine.
Now everyone reading this will have differing opinions on the Cruiserweight division and whether it is meaningless or not within the company. Despite your beliefs, there is no denying that Itami WILL be a big star in the division before he ultimately heads further up the card to other Championships WWE offer.
Itami demands respect from his opponents and it is certain he has earned it from those who have stood across the ring from him. When Bobby Roode was NXT Champion, Itami felt disrespected and while he indeed was unsuccessful in capturing the Championship, he left an impact on the current ‘Smackdown Live’ superstar.