10 Reasons Tommaso Ciampa could become the greatest NXT champion ever

4. He shined bright on the independent scene

Ciampa was released from OVW in 2007, mostly because the company was worried he might be injury prone.

While it was a devastating blow to his career, Ciampa didn't give up. He redoubled his efforts, proving that he's not just in wrestling for a paycheck or the fame, but because he has a passion for the sport.

He defeated none other than current Smackdown champion AJ Styles and Impact Wrestling megastar Eddie Edwards in a three-way dance to claim the MWF television championship in a match that is still talked about today.