Cody Rhodes is currently enjoying an impressive run as WWE Champion, showcasing his skills both in the ring and on the mic, while serving as a strong representative for the company. However, his reign won’t last forever, especially with so many talented wrestlers eager to claim the title.
Eventually, Triple H will need to pass the championship on, and there are numerous worthy contenders waiting in line. Since title reigns tend to be lengthy in WWE, some wrestlers might have to wait their turn, but plenty are ready to seize the opportunity when it arises.
Drew McIntyre
- Two-time WWE Champion.
- Has been vying for the title throughout Cody Rhodes’ run.
Drew McIntyre has been locked in a long-running feud with Cody Rhodes for the WWE Championship. Even though he hasn’t secured the title yet, it seems inevitable that he will. McIntyre’s compelling character work and strong in-ring ability make him a prime candidate to take the championship and steer it in a new direction.
Sami Zayn
- Nearly won the title with Triple H’s backing.
- Has strong fan support as a top babyface.
Sami Zayn offers a unique option among former WWE Champions, as he has never held a world title despite his talent. His underdog persona has earned him a loyal fan following, and WWE could finally reward him by making him champion, giving fans a satisfying moment after years of support.
Aleister Black
- Former NXT Champion.
- Has yet to win a singles main roster title.
Aleister Black, favored by Triple H, is another standout who has never been WWE Champion. With his captivating matches and distinctive character, especially alongside Zelina Vega, Black looks poised to become a major title contender soon.
Chris Jericho
- Rumored to be returning to WWE soon.
- Six-time WWE world champion.
Chris Jericho is expected to depart AEW by year’s end, fueling speculation about a WWE comeback. If he returns, the nostalgia factor and his proven star power could lead to a final run as WWE Champion to crown his illustrious career.
Jacob Fatu
- Former US Champion.
- Seen as a rising star in WWE.
Jacob Fatu, known as the Samoan Werewolf, is a new-generation talent ready to make a mark. With his fierce presence and intense style, Fatu has the potential to climb quickly and become WWE Champion.
Solo Sikoa
- Former US Champion.
- Ex-Bloodline member and current leader of MFT.
Solo Sikoa has been positioned for a WWE Championship run since joining the main roster. Having developed charisma and wrestling skills, especially after leaving Roman Reigns’ shadow, Sikoa looks ready for a bigger spotlight.
Randy Orton
- Fourteen-time world champion.
- Hasn’t held a title since returning from injury.
Randy Orton’s vast experience and star quality make it hard to imagine him not reclaiming the WWE Championship one day. With the right storyline, Orton’s partnership with Triple H could pave the way for another dominant run.
Kevin Owens
- Former Universal Champion.
- Currently sidelined with a neck injury.
Though Kevin Owens may face challenges due to his injury, fans hope for a comeback. If he returns, a WWE Championship match against Randy Orton would be a compelling full-circle moment.
Oba Femi
- Former NXT Champion.
- Anticipated to join the main roster soon.
Oba Femi is often viewed as a potential future WWE Champion thanks to his dominating presence and youthful energy. Once on the main roster, he’s expected to rapidly ascend and solidify his status as a top star.
Ilya Dragunov
- Current US Champion.
- Made a strong impression early in his career.
Ilya Dragunov has tremendous potential but isn’t yet viewed as a future world champion. With the right growth in popularity and promo skills, he could eventually become a powerful babyface champion, known for his resilience against larger opponents.
Fan Take: This evolving lineup of WWE contenders highlights the depth and diversity of talent poised to shape the future of the WWE Championship. For fans, it signals exciting times ahead, with new rivalries and storylines that could redefine the wrestling landscape.
