5 WWE Superstars who had more success outside the company

#4 Former WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn

While WWE Superstar Sami Zayn desperately hangs on to kayfabe by declining to accept his previous identity as the masked El Generico, he cannot even disagree that his best days were spent under the moniker. As El Generico, he won the PWG World Championship twice.

Zayn saw much success in NXT and is still considered one of the best performers in the brand's history. On the main roster, he has always been considered a handy wrestler capable of filling the gaps.

Whether as a heel or a face, he has never been considered a headliner, and unlike his frenemy Kevin Owens, has never won a world championship in Vince McMahon's company.

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#3 Former WWE Cruiserweight Champion Akira Tozawa

Akira Tozawa was one of Dragon Gate's earliest home-grown talents and found immediate success in the promotion. Considered an important wrestler by the promotion, he won championships in both singles and tag team divisions.

Tozawa is capable of superb performances in the ring, as seen during his time on 205 Live. However, WWE is content with him playing a ninja in comedy segments.

His quest for success is limited to reigns with the ridiculous 24/7 Championship. When battling major stars, he acts as an enhancement talent.