The last time episodes of WWE Smackdown were consistently this entertaining, ECW founder Paul Heyman was leading the creative for the brand. Under his guidance, he identified six rising stars he would build to become long-term anchors for the blue brand.
Those future legends were Edge, Rey Mysterio, Eddie Guerrero, Chavo Guerrero, Chris Benoit, and Kurt Angle. Also known as the “Smackdown Six.” In a recent interview with Newsweek, the WWE Hall-of-Famer was asked if a new “Smackdown Six” exists on the current roster. And he suggested every member of Solo Sikoa’s new Bloodline had the potential to be a part of that group.
With that idea in mind, let’s look at eight younger members of the current Smackdown roster who could eventually turn into anchors of the brand for many years to come.
Jacob Fatu
There has been a huge amount of buzz around new Bloodline member Jacob Fatu. The former MLW champion created a lot of momentum and brought it with him to WWE. Head of Creative Paul “Triple H” Levesque has complimented him publicly and reports claim company decision-makers have been thrilled by his performance thus far. The 32-year-old hasn’t even entered his wrestling prime and is a favorite to be a big name on the blue brand for years to come.
Logan Paul
Logan Paul has been shockingly good since joining the WWE roster a few years ago. The speed with which he has caught on to the finer nuances of the sport is similar to legends like Kurt Angle and Ronda Rousey. He also brings with him a huge built-in fanbase. And elite-level media savvy that makes him more valuable than most on the roster. If Paul really wants to make a career of pro wrestling there is little doubt he will be a Smackdown anchor for years.
Solo Sikoa
This has been a big year for new Bloodline leader Solo Sikoa. He has become one of the top heels on Smackdown in 2024. And has gotten to expand his character in major ways. The younger brother of the Usos is only 31 and has shown he is a well-rounded talent with a lot of remaining untapped potential. Expect him to be a long-term building block.
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Tiffany Stratton
Tiffany Stratton was one of the best women’s champions in NXT history. And she has gotten off to a fast start on the main roster. She’s already won the Money in the Bank briefcase and seems primed to win the top Smackdown title in the next six months. There is no young performer on the roster with bigger long-term superstar potential than Stratton.
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Carmelo Hayes
Like Stratton, Carmelo Hayes was one of the best NXT champions in the brand’s history. In his time there he proved his worth as a babyface and heel. And is having far more success as the latter on the main roster. He has a ways to go and his size will always be a hindrance on the main roster. But Hayes’ mix of high-level in-ring skills and natural charisma makes him a top choice as a Smackdown anchor over the next decade.
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Jade Cargill
Speaking of potential, the upside of former AEW TBS champion Jade Cargill is off the charts. There is a reason why WWE drip-fed her debut. And has taken their time and looked to develop her as opposed to putting her in big matches. She still has some rough edges to round out when it comes to her in-ring work. But her charisma is next level and if she isn’t a top women’s star on Smackdown for years it would be shocking.
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Santos Escobar
Santos Escobar has needed several twists and turns on the main roster to finally find his niche. However, he has found his groove in 2024 and has become a worthwhile midcard talent on the roster. With WWE always looking for future stars who can generate interest with Latin fans, Escobar is a talent the company will give many opportunities over the coming years.
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Chelsea Green
Chelsea Green has become a very entertaining part of whatever brand she is on during her second stint with the company. Her charisma is undeniable and her wrestling as a heel is very underrated. She came close to winning this year’s Money in the Bank and it seems like she is a favorite of the decision makers. Look for her to be a stalwart of Smackdown for many years to come.
