In just a matter of days, a little over a week from now, the entire WWE landscape will change. On July 19th, the 2016 Draft will take place, creating a shift in the overall product like we haven't seen in years.
As we have just begun to come to grips with the New Era, a new look roster and all the other changes that have taken place since WrestleMania, it is now time to change things on a whole new level. So, what can you and I expect to see, what kind of changes will in fact take place and how will the overall fan experience change, once the Draft is in the books?
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This column is just for that. We are going to take an in-depth look at 10 things you need to know about the upcoming Draft and brand-split.
10. Competition: Two Brands, Two Rosters, One Goal
Just like during the Monday Night Wars, separation breeds competition. Competition equals an increased level of overall quality productivity. While Raw is still considered the flagship program, the SmackDown roster will have a chip on their collective shoulders, looking to prove they belong in the discussion when talking about entertaining TV.
9. Smackdown is going LIVE!
This could be one of the best things about the whole Draft, brand-split process. It's been nearly 17 years since SmackDown went live. The live experience has a special quality about itself, which creates a much more exciting show.
The live show will help the Blue Brand contend with the legitimacy of Raw, plus provide a more high-octane, no room for mistakes type of vibe that generally helps the event by keeping all of the performers on their toes. Compared to the pre-taped predecessor, the live show is almost magical.
8. Two Championships
While WWE officials haven't addressed this topic just yet, fans should expect to see each brand to have their own championship, similar to when the World Heavyweight Title was exclusive to Smackdown.
Not only will this enable both brands to have their own respective champion, it also helps level the playing field for SmackDown, giving it the primary tool needed to create a true champion, instead of feeling like the illegitimate step brother to the Monday Night crew.
7. Return of the General Managers
Will it be Stephanie McMahon controlling one, while the other is guided by Shane-O-Mac? Or will Vince opt for a fresh face to be in charge of each brand? Shane is certainly a fan favorite, but will we see Teddy Long, Vickie Guerrero or maybe John Laurinaitis will bring back People Power? Regardless of who is in charge, even if it's an anonymous GM, it still brings an interesting element to the weekly programs.
6. Separate monthly pay-per-view events
The WWE Network might become a little more valuable, following the draft and brand-split. This is another topic WWE officials have steered clear of giving a direct answer to, but there's plenty of proof and evidence based on the actions of history, which would make one assume that we are indeed headed towards a separate monthly PPV format.
If it's booked properly, surely it can work and add value to each brand. However, having two premium monthly events can easily create a watered down feeling. And yes, sometimes too much of a good thing, is in fact just too much.
5. Big time returns
Another exciting possibility that could soon become a reality, is the return of big names. Splitting the rosters in two could cause a need to go after some of the bigger name free agents, so each brand could add star power it's respective roster. Names such as Goldberg and Kurt Angle will probably be two of the names mentioned most, when it comes to notable returns.
4. More live events, more fans see WWE in person
One of the benefits of having two separate rosters, that many fans seem to forget, is the fact that having dual rosters will bring about the need for a busier travel calendar. While the Raw roster is in one town, SmackDown will be traveling in a completely different area. This will result in more fans having a chance to see WWE live. Whether it's a live Raw or SmackDown TV taping, or just a house show, more fans will now get to experience WWE in person.
3. Elevation of lower/mid-card talent
Opportunity seems to be the common theme with the upcoming WWE Draft. Once the main roster is essentially cut in half, with SmackDown getting one half and Raw getting the other, there will suddenly be more room at the top. As of now, the roster is pretty well stacked from top to bottom. However, the Draft will shake things up and result in some of the superstars who don't get a lot of mention, suddenly competing for more TV love.
2. Tag Team Turmoil
There is a very real possibility that one or more tag team will be split up as a result of the draft. Especially as the draft nears the end and the talent pool shrinks, tag team members will become more valuable as singles competitors, in some situations.
Will we see The Wyatt Family torn apart? That's doubtful, but it's not far from reality that a group such as the Social Outcasts will be split up. Also, there's been teasing lately of The Dudley Boyz going their separate ways. This has happened in drafts of the past and it could very well happen again this year.
1. NXT will take a hit
Last, but certainly not least is the impact the Draft will have on the NXT roster. The Yellow Brand recently underwent a shakeup of its own, with all of the post-WrestleMania call-ups they had to deal with.
Could we hear names called, such as Finn Bálor, or maybe Shinsuke Nakamura, maybe Austin Aries or one of the other NXT stars who have improved, or proved they can handle life on the main roster? Could we see Bayley to bring hugs to the Raw or SmackDown roster? Regardless of who gets the call, it will undoubtedly have an impact on things in Orlando.
