3 better opponents for Shinsuke Nakamura than LA Knight

Shinsuke Nakamura is the reigning US Campion. (Image credits: WWE.com)
Shinsuke Nakamura is the reigning US Campion. (Image credits: WWE.com)

At Survivor Series: WarGames, Shinsuke Nakamura sent shockwaves through the WWE Universe by dethroning LA Knight to become US Champion. The Wayward Samurai had returned with a fresh mystical character, taking his antics up a notch.

Since the rematch clause is not religiously followed in the Triple H regime, fans expected Nakamura vs. Knight at Survivor Series to be a one-off. However, the new US Champion isn't finished with The Megastar as evident in his mid-match assault last week on SmackDown.

The blue brand is packed with talent, and LA Knight vs. Shinsuke Nakamura may still have some heat. Hence, there are better opponents for The Wayward Samurai.


#3. Andrade would be a fresh opponent for Shinsuke Nakamura

youtube-cover

Andrade was a consistent thorn in Knight's path during The Megastar's critically acclaimed US title run. El Idolo could fill the same shoes again as Shinauke Nakamura's challenger.

The Mexican is one of the most talented stars on SmackDown and would make for an excellent US Champion. Since Andrade was a babyface and continuously embroiled in a side feud with Carmelo Hayes, his chances of winning the title were slimmer when Knight was the champ.

However, Hayes has moved on from Andrade, and Nakamura is a heel. Hence, his odds are better this time. Victory or not, El Idolo will gain steam by feuding with an established veteran in The Wayward Samurai.


#2. Apollo Crews

Speaking of rising babyfaces, Apollo Crews has recently received considerable TV time. His issues with Solo Sikoa have made him a useful ally for Knight and an enemy of The Bloodline.

Triple H has shown heightened interest in the former Intercontinental Champion, which could translate into a mini-feud with Shinsuke Nakamura. Nakamura's US Title reign is in its infancy. To solidify his reign, he needs wins.

Crews could serve as a fine placeholder challenger for The Wayward Samurai, who could then move to more high-profile opponents.


#1. Braun Strowman

youtube-cover

RAW's debut on Netflix has led to some superstar trades. Logan Paul was traded to the red brand, and Braun Strowman recently returned to SmackDown as Carmelo Hayes' mystery opponent.

The Monster of All Monsters was under-utilized on RAW, but he could receive a sizeable push on the blue brand. Strowman could become a mainstay in the upper mid-card by becoming US Champion, a title he has never won.

Strowman defeated Shinsuke Nakamura to win his first Intercontinental Championship. History could repeat itself if he dethrones Nakamura to win the US Title.

Quick Links

Edited by Arsh Das
sk promotional banner
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications