There are some WWE Superstars that seem to never leave the limelight, they receive tons of time on our screens and have the admiration of the WWE Universe. For every WWE performer who gets the star treatment, there are many who never get the full appreciation they deserve.
When we think of WWE Superstars who are underappreciated, it's not always due to a lack of screen time, but a lack of involvement in storylines that place them in a relevant progression of their characters and showcase their talent. While there are many examples of this, in this article, we will only select a handful.
Here, we will discuss five WWE Superstars who are severely underappreciated. This is not a comprehensive list and there will be many that are left out. Who are some of your picks of WWE Superstars that are underappreciated? Let us know in the comments below.
#5 Kofi Kingston rarely gets the WWE respect he deserves
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Yes, Kofi Kingston is a former WWE Champion. Yes, Kofimania ran wild in the wrestling world and was one of the highlights of 2019. It felt like a culmination of an 11-year run for a WWE Superstar who was always on the cusp of greatness, unrealized.
The end of Kofi's run was lackluster and, in some opinions, halted the momentum of the former champion. His abrupt defeat at the hands of Brock Lesnar was a shocking moment on WWE SmackDown's first episode on FOX. But, for those who have followed Kofi's career, the result wasn't that shocking at all.
From the very beginning of his career as a WWE Superstar, Kofi Kingston has been beloved by the WWE Universe. While he has had United States, Intercontinental and Tag Team Championship reigns, it's never felt like Kofi was elevated to a place that fans were clamoring for until 2019. He's been an underdog for most of his career, giving us unbelievable moments in amazing matches.
On paper, the match with Lesnar was an uphill battle for Kingston. But to end a title reign that had restored hope and passion from the WWE Universe with a match that lasted less than 10 seconds didn't sit well with many fans. Kofi has done some amazing things with the New Day, but it feels like he deserved a lot more in defeat.
Kofi Kingston represents the essence of what all WWE Superstars should: bubbling charisma, extraordinary in-ring talent and determination that is almost always unmatched. Hopefully we will see another strong singles push for Kofi in his decorated career.
#4 Naomi
Despite her championship reigns, WWE Superstar Naomi has still been largely unappreciated for her talent. Naomi has proven that she is a main event performer and should always be near the title picture.
Always a WWE Universe favorite, Naomi received a huge crowd reaction when she returned earlier this year at the Royal Rumble. She rode that wave of momentum for a few months, with a brief appearance in the title picture. That momentum has fizzled as of late and it seems there is no major story for her in the near future.
What does the future hold for Naomi in WWE?
Recently, Naomi has had a feud with Lacey Evans on WWE's Blue brand but with minimal build no one knew what to think and were not invested in the storyline. Maybe we will see another matchup between the two in the near future.
As WWE moves storylines forward, having Naomi as a key factor would be nice to see. Her abilities in the ring, along with her promo skills make her a must-see when ever she graces our TV screens. If Naomi gets the opportunity that fans have been craving, she'll have the chance to make everyone feel the glow.
#3 Dolph Ziggler doesn't get his due from WWE
It may be surprising to some that WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler included on this list. Ziggler has been in the wrestling business for nearly 20 years and has never been better.
Despite his recent feud against current WWE Champion Drew McIntyre, Ziggler has largely been involved in stories that don't showcase his abilities fully. In the WWE, Ziggler has often been used to put other talent over instead of receiving more of a meaningful run in the title picture.
One of WWE's biggest crowd reactions
One of the biggest moments in the WWE was when Dolph Ziggler cashed in his Money In The Bank contract and won the World Heavyweight Championship. The pop he received proved how popular he is with the WWE Universe.
Now Ziggler has been a prominent part of WWE's newest attraction, RAW Underground. It's clear that Ziggler's involvement lends instant credibility to the product because of his abilities as a performer and background as a successful amateur wrestler. Hopefully this leads to another shot at the title.
#2 Mustafa Ali deserves more WWE recognition
It's hard to understand why WWE hasn't given a major push to one of their most beloved Superstars, Mustafa Ali. Aside from his charisma, athleticism and in-ring skills, Ali is also known for his positivity and great attitude outside of the squared circle.
Mustafa Ali has been on and off of our television screens since returning to WWE's Red brand recently. He, along with Cedric Alexander and Ricochet, have teamed up to take on the dominant Hurt Business on RAW. As soon his Ali hit our screens, he showed off the skills in the ring with some added moves.
WWE forced to change plans for Ali
An injury last year seemingly halted WWE's plans to push Mustafa Ali, paving the way for the push we saw with Kofi Kingston. Enough time has passed now, though, to give Ali the push that so many of the WWE Universe are begging for.
Oftentimes, the promo skills that Mustafa Ali has are largely overlooked. When given the chance to get on the mic, Ali is captivating and authentic. WWE should look to elevate the star in future stories.
#1 Cesaro should be in WWE's plans
Cesaro is possibly one of the most gifted performers in WWE. His in-ring abilities often amaze us and his feats of strength are the stuff of legend.
While he has had a run with the United States Championship, most of Cesaro's championship success has come as a member of a tag team. Despite his tag team success, many members of the WWE Universe have been begging for a major singles title push for the star. Aside from being a great technical wrestler, Cesaro's well-rounded and nearly flawless ability to tell a story inside the ropes has been revered.
Should WWE give Cesaro more opportunities on the microphone?
WWE has not given Cesaro many opportunities to showcase his abilities through promo work. But when he gets the opportunity, he makes the most of his chances. If given a push, Cesaro could become one of the most well-liked and formidable champions in the company's history.
For now, Cesaro is enjoying success as one half of the SmackDown Tag Team Champions with Shinsuke Nakamura. Hopefully the duo have a long, successful run as champions.