#1 Hideo Itami

When the wrestler formerly known as KENTA signed for WWE in 2014, it was a huge deal especially back in his native Japan. At the time, WWE had even sent down Hulk Hogan for the contract signing.

Since then though, he’s failed to make an impact in a NXT roster filled with international stars. A large part of this is definitely down to the shoulder injury that has kept him out of action since May last year.

Another thing that counts against Itami is that unlike Shinsuke Nakamura, his English is not even passable. And also unlike Nakamura, he doesn’t have a lot of charisma. On the main roster, these factors could really hurt him since the show isn’t about technical wrestling and is catered more to the mainstream audience.

If NXT folded right now, Itami would be a fish in the ocean on the main roster and I’m actually scared that Vince McMahon might give him some Japanese stereotype gimmick.

Itami needs time in NXT to get a foothold and work more in the WWE style to get him ready for an eventual jump to the main roster, When he’s finally really, Itami might have the potential to even be a main eventer.

Edited by Staff Editor