Top Independent Stars Who Could Thrive In WWE NXT

Matt Riddle

Matt Riddle is another independent star who I believe would not only thrive in NXT, but I think could prosper on the main roster. Riddle originally competed in the UFC before he became a professional wrestler.

Right now the WWE seems to be trying to pick up crossover athletes such as Shayna Braszler, and of course with Ronda Rousey showing up at the Royal Rumble. I could see Riddle having quality with the likes of Samoa Joe, Pete Dunne, Johnny Gargano or Roderick Strong.

Riddle is a battle tested athlete who has performed all over the world. Riddle has competed in some of the most Intense matches I have seen in my 30 plus years watching wrestling. In PROGRESS Wrestling Riddle is a former Atlas Champion having some classic matches with Walter for the title. In the video above Riddle is facing Cody in England.

(Editor’s Note: There’s an elephant in the room when it comes to Riddle joining WWE, though he did give other reasons for why he isn’t interesting in signing with them right now.)

Keith Lee

When speaking about top Independent stars in the business, you have to put Keith Lee’s name in that conversation. Lee is known around the world as one of the most agile big men on the independent circuit today. When I was a kid wrestlers came in all shapes and sizes. For a long time after the Monday night war era was over WWE was using talent that fit a certain mold and body type. There were exceptions of course, but now it seems the dawn of the big man is upon us once again. With that being said I think this is a perfect time for Lee to get signed by NXT.

Lee is physically strong, but I have seen him use the type of agility that is very uncommon with his large stature. He has also wrestled all over the world and is the current WWN Live World Champion. Lee won this title in a brutal last man standing match with Matt Riddle at EVOLVE 95. I could see Lee doing big things in NXT including being the champion.

Personally, I would love to see Lee battle stars such as Braun Strowman, Kevin Owens or even Brock Lesnar. On this slide is a video of Lee vs. Donovan Dijak  in just one of the epic battles the two have had.