7 most important performers in NXT history

#2 Sami Zayn

The Underdog from the Underground

Sami Zayn was one of the most beloved wrestlers in NXT history. He was an integral part of the company when it was on the rise.

The main roster had become very stale at that time, and fans were looking for an alternative. NXT provided that alternative for fans through exciting, and relatable characters, and storylines. Sami Zayn was one such relatable character. He was the guy who was termed a failure but never gave up. Therefore, he became incredibly popular among fans.

His matches against the likes of Cesaro, Neville, and Tyson Kidd turned heads. In particular, Sami Zayn wrestled in one of the best matches ever when he won the NXT Championship at NXT Takeover: R-Evolution.

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#1 Bayley

Purest babyface

Bayley is the most important performer in NXT history. She had one of the best-written stories in recent memory.

Initially, she lost too many matches and was considered a loser. But she held on to the hope that someday she would become a champion. As time passed, she slowly started gaining a good reputation among fans. It grew big when her contemporaries were called up to the main roster, and she was left behind.

That lead to the historic match between Bayley and Sasha Banks at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn where the former won the NXT Women's Championship. It is perhaps the best moment in the brand's history.

Her impact extended beyond the ring as she was a family-friendly character who was beloved by fans of all ages. She especially made an impact by being marketed towards young girls. These achievements make her the most influential wrestler the brand has ever seen.