Grading The First 10 NXT Champions

#5 Sami Zayn

When hard work and passion triumphs.

A very small reign, but Sami Zayn's story was mainly that of someone pursuing the belt, but always failing. However, we are rating only the reign with the title, so Zayn falls short here. His win over Neville was a very feel-good match which WWE booked as validation for Zayn's talents. The underdog from the underground finally did it and celebrated with his best friend Kevin Owens in the ring. Owens turned on him, and soon enough snatched the title for himself winning via referee stoppage at NXT TakeOver: Rival.

Zayn debuted against John Cena on Raw in May 2015, answering Cena's open challenge while being introduced by Bret Hart. Zayn, however, picked up a shoulder injury and stayed in NXT. He returned to the main roster in the Royal Rumble, eliminating Kevin Owens. He became a full-time main roster member and fought for the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania 31, losing to Zack Ryder. He has been a featured member of the roster since, feuding with Kevin Owens for the majority of his run, and now teaming with him.

Zayn promises to be a bonafide star if WWE don't drop the ball with him. He has done well on the main roster so far, but can't seem to be independent of Kevin Owens just yet. He hasn't set the world alight yet, but he surely will soon enough.

Grades: C as NXT Champion, B on the main roster, C+ overall.