Sami Zayn is the new WWE United States Champion. He picked up the title by defeating Solo Sikoa on the August 29 episode of WWE SmackDown. This is a huge career moment for Zayn, picking up this title for the first time. But for some, this is just scratching the surface of how far he could go. Sami Zayn is WWE Champion material, and that needs to happen at some point in 2026.
Any title win is a big deal in professional wrestling. Especially when it happens on the biggest stages like WWE or All Elite Wrestling. It is a moment to recognize a performer for their talents and contributions to the industry. That is why the “you deserve it” chants make sense for some, because winning a title is a testament to what that performer has given to the game.
According to Cagematch, Sami Zayn debuted back in March 2002, meaning he’s coming up on his 24th anniversary in a few months. There’s no arguing that Zayn has contributed a lot to the industry. He’s been with WWE since 2013, and during that run he’s been regarded as one of the best storytellers and characters in the promotion. Zayn is the full package. He checks all the boxes for someone who should be presented as the “main character” of a promotion. A babyface whom the fans can get behind. He can play the heel that even though they are acting dastardly, they have a point. Sami Zayn can do it all in professional wrestling and sports entertainment.
That is why a midcard championship at this point in his run seems like a muted step. Yes, it is a title that Zayn hasn’t held, but he is main event material at this point in time. That doesn’t mean holding a midcard title and being booked for the main event, no. It means getting a chance to hold one of the top titles in WWE.
The move to SmackDown set many up to believing that Zayn is going to find himself in the hunt for the title in 2026. He’s cut several promos about becoming a top champion. Jey Uso’s run to the title seems like a precursor to Zayn reaching the same point in his career. That makes this title win at this point in his career seem like an unnecessary side quest.
Fans and pundits can easily determine when a performer fits the “look” of a WWE Champion. Men like Cody Rhodes, Roman Reigns, Bron Breakker, Seth Rollins, and a few others look the part. Women like Tiffany Stratton, Rhea Ripley, and Bianca Belair look the part. Sami Zayn does not look the part. He doesn’t behave the part either. Even though his fan backing is massive, those are two big hurdles that most do not overcome. The question about whether Zayn will be able to break through the proverbial glass ceiling is one that cannot be ignored at this point.
Celebrate Sami Zayn’s big championship win. It is a huge step in his career. There’s still more to achieve, however. Perhaps one day he will hold either the Undisputed or World Heavyweight Championship over his head.