WWE NXT: Analyzing Main Roster Potential of 14 Superstars and Divas

WWE.com

Hideo Itami

When Hideo Itami arrived at WWE NXT in September, there was a ton of hype around his debut. He started off strong in a segment with The Ascension at NXT TakeOver: Fatal 4-Way. After that though, he hasn’t found the ability to click with the audience.

Itami’s adjustment in the ring was a rough one at first. He botched multiple moves in every match and didn’t seem confident. The star formerly known as KENTA has since developed into a solid WWE ring worker, but he failed to get much of a reaction from the fans. I caught on the February 25 episode that they inserted a “Let’s go Hid-e-o” chant during his match with Bull Dempsey. It started, lasted for about five seconds and abruptly ended. While it was playing during the match, you could see no one was chanting either.

Itami is going to need more time in NXT to try to click with the crowd, which he will do at some point. Once that happens, he will head to the main roster. Unfortunately, he may fall victim to how McMahon has poorly used Japanese imported wrestlers over the years. This could result in him floating around the mid-card.

Verdict: Mid-Card