As the dust settles on the 2024 WWE Draft, Monday night’s Raw saw a whirlwind of selections that reshaped the landscape of WWE. With a total of 33 picks, including four NXT superstars and the notable drafting of the only champions eligible this round, The Kabuki Warriors, the night was packed with action and surprises.
The draft kicked off with a strong start in the first round, setting a high bar for excitement:
- Round 1 saw Imperium and Damage CTRL moving to Raw, while high-profile stars Jade Cargill and Kevin Owens were snapped up by SmackDown.
- Round 2 featured the dramatic selection of CM Punk for Raw and The Pride for SmackDown, alongside the return of Braun Strowman to Raw, adding muscle and charisma in equal measure.
- Round 3 introduced LWO and Legado del Fantasma to their new homes on Raw and SmackDown respectively, setting the stage for new rivalries and alliances.
- Judgment Day’s move to Raw in Round 4 was a strategic play, balanced by SmackDown acquiring Naomi and the dynamic duo of Chelsea Green and Piper Niven.
- Round 5 celebrated the drafting of New Day back to Raw, where they will undoubtedly continue to bring their unique blend of athleticism and entertainment.
The subsequent rounds and supplemental draft picks continued to distribute talent across both brands, ensuring fresh matchups and storylines for the coming year. With such a comprehensive shuffle, WWE fans can expect a revitalized energy in the ring, as new and familiar faces find their footing and vie for dominance.
Among the standout moments was the selection of NXT stars like Ilja Dragunov and Lyra Valkyria to Raw, indicating WWE’s confidence in their potential to impact the main roster. The strategic moves made during this draft are sure to influence the dynamics of both Raw and SmackDown significantly.
As NXT bids farewell to its rising stars, and Raw and SmackDown welcome new and returning talent, the excitement for what’s to come is palpable. This draft might just be the catalyst for one of the most thrilling years in WWE history.