5 superstars who would benefit from a strong showing in the WWE World Cup

#2 Andrade 'Cien' Almas (Mexico)

Almas has impressed so far on Smackdown.

It will be a major rub for Andrade Cien Almas is he is the one to represent Mexico for the WWE World Cup, especially since Rey Mysterio's return to the company is imminent. It would continue the upward trajectory he has been on ever since he turned heel and aligned with Zelina Vega, back in NXT.

The Latino partnership has completely transformed his fortunes and spurred him on to steal the show at four NXT Takeover shows in a row, including two Stormers against Johnny Gargano in Brooklyn and Philadelphia, with the latter one receiving five stars from Dave Meltzer, the first five-star match under the WWE bracket since John Cena vs CM Punk at Money in the Bank 2011.

Almas even won the NXT Championship at NXT Takeover: War Games, against Drew McIntyre before he was called up to the WWE main roster during the Superstar Shakeup. He has made a real splash on Smackdown, wrestling competitive matches against the likes of Rusev and AJ Styles. While Almas hasn't had a proper story for a while now, he was utilised effectively in the Miz vs Daniel Bryan feud.

He has been kept strong in all of those matches against upper card talent and has shown incredible flair and substance in the ring. It is pretty encouraging to know that Mr McMahon himself is extremely impressed with Almas and will continue to push him on the Blue brand.

It is also really encouraging that a short while ago, there were rumours floating around of Almas winning the 2019 Royal Rumble. While it probably will not happen, but that shows the high standing WWE regards him in. He is basically an upgraded version of Alberto Del Rio. Almas has a great look, performs spectacularly in the ring and has great in-ring mannerisms.

Also, the fact that he has Zelina Vega by his side to cut his promos just makes him seem much bigger as a star. The rise should continue in Saudi Arabia, as a great showing at the World Cup would be the next step for Andrade Cien Almas his journey to become the WWE's next big Latino star.