WWE: Ranking The Top 10 NXT Superstars of 2018

1. Tommaso Ciampa

Purely academic, like I said. Ciampa’s position at the top spot is a purely subjective judgement, and frankly, you could switch in Gargano or even Black depending on the direction of the wind, or the phase of the moon. But Ciampa’s return from injury as the #1 heel in WWE – possibly the #1 heel in the world right now – is what puts him at the top spot for me.

Ciampa’s brand of evil is a wonderful thing to behold. He is vicious, yes, and terrible in so many ways, but it’s the puppetmaster aspect of his personality which sets him apart. He has been so clearly in control of Gargano’s fortune from the moment he attacked him at TakeOver: Chicago, and there’s something gloriously pantomime about it all: the compulsion to yell he’s behind you! every time Gargano reacts to Ciampa’s latest evil scheme.

Even Aleister Black has fallen victim to Ciampa playing the devil on his shoulder, whispering into his ear. Nobody is safe from Ciampa’s puppeteering ways. It’s a brilliant ploy to maintain his status as NXT’s top dog. Set the cat among the pigeons and watch them flap from a safe distance. As a tactic, it’s served Ciampa perfectly.

And as if he hadn’t already proved his credentials as an evil genius, the latest development in the saga has Ciampa dangling the tantalising possibility of a reunion before Gargano. It’s a brilliant move – eliminate your biggest rival and turn him into an asset in one fell swoop. It remains to be seen whether Gargano will swallow the hook, but if there’s one thing Ciampa is good at, it’s the gentle art of persuasion.

Ciampa’s reign as NXT Champion has been brilliant. He’s got the persona nailed down – in turns slimy and legitimately dangerous, never anything less than a real threat. He’s got a unique look and an entertaining in-ring style, not to mention a fearlessness which allows for some truly eye-watering spots. He’s at the top of his game right now, and I suspect he’s got still more to offer.

Through sheer hard work and creative brilliance, Tommaso Ciampa’s trajectory to the main roster has been set in motion. Let’s enjoy his stellar NXT run while it lasts.