In the world of professional wrestling, the art of booking is a delicate dance, and sometimes, it can make or break a star's career. The WWE, a powerhouse in the industry, has seen its fair share of talented individuals struggle due to poor booking decisions. Here's an in-depth look at five WWE stars who have been held back by subpar booking, and why their potential remains untapped.
Otis and Akira Tozawa: The Unutilized Athletes
Otis and Akira Tozawa, once considered a force to be reckoned with, now find themselves in a state of limbo. Otis, with his Money in the Bank victory, seemed destined for greatness, but WWE's booking has other plans. The duo's current role as a comedy act in tag teams is a far cry from their athletic prowess. Otis, in particular, showcases incredible athleticism, yet WWE fails to capitalize on this. The departure of Maxxine Dupri from their tag team further exacerbates their plight. A tag title run, which could have been a turning point, seems unlikely, leaving fans wondering what could have been.
Angel and Berto: Tag Team Talent Unlocked
Angel and Berto, real-life cousins, are a tag team force to be reckoned with. Their in-ring chemistry and ability to steal the show in any setting are undeniable. However, WWE's booking has kept them on the fringes, rarely utilizing their potential. The group with Santos Escobar fizzled out, and since then, the team has struggled to gain momentum. These talented wrestlers deserve a chance to shine in the tag team divisions of Raw, SmackDown, or NXT, but WWE's treatment of them suggests otherwise. It's a missed opportunity, as they could be a valuable asset to the company.
Ivy Nile and The Creed Brothers: NXT Standouts Struggling
The Creed Brothers, along with Ivy Nile, were once NXT standouts, but their journey to the main roster has been a bumpy one. After joining Chad Gable's heel faction, their opportunities seemed limited. Now, with Gable's return to a babyface role, the trio's absence from the main events is notable. The lack of promotion and consistent booking opportunities raise questions about WWE's plans for these talented individuals. With their youth and potential, they could be a force to be reckoned with, but it's up to management to unlock their true potential.
Candice LeRae and Johnny Gargano: Misused Talent
Candice LeRae and Johnny Gargano, a dynamic duo, have been a victim of poor booking. Their restricted roles in backstage segments, with Gargano in a comatose state and LeRae frustrated, are a disservice to their talent. Gargano's ability to deliver great matches and LeRae's charisma are undeniable. The end of DIY with Tommaso Ciampa's exit left a void, and WWE's slow response to their potential storylines is concerning. Midcard titles or a feud with other couples could be a breath of fresh air, but the current state of their booking leaves fans disappointed.
Jordynne Grace: The Forgotten Powerhouse
Jordynne Grace, a history-making wrestler, has become a forgotten figure in WWE. Her early success and involvement in the WWE-TNA alliance were notable, but her recent booking has been a mystery. Grace's lack of TV matches since April raises questions. With her unique talent and power, she could be a game-changer, especially in a time when WWE is searching for a female powerhouse. The absence of a clear roadmap for her future is a concern, leaving fans wondering what could have been.
In conclusion, these five WWE stars represent a talent pool that could be unleashed with better booking. The company's ability to recognize and utilize their potential is crucial for the future of these athletes. It's a reminder that the booking process is an art, and sometimes, it takes a keen eye to unlock the true stars of the ring.
