5 WWE midcarders who need to be pushed into the main event scene in 2026

In the constantly changing world of WWE, the distinction between the midcard and the main event has never been so blurred. As we look toward 2026, the roster is filled with top-tier talent poised to break through the glass ceiling and reach the highest levels.

In this listicle, we will look at five WWE midcarders who need to be pushed into the main event scene in 2026.

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#5. Aleister Black

Since his high-profile return to SmackDown in early 2025, Aleister Black, formerly known as Malakai Black, has reminded the WWE Universe why he is one of the most captivating performers in the industry. While his initial feud with The Miz re-established his "Black Mass" as the most dangerous strike in the game, Aleister Black is far more than a midcard attraction.

With his real-life wife, Zelina Vega, now by his side, many believe that Black has the character depth and in-ring intensity to lead the brand. They suggest that The Dutch Destroyer should move past spooky vignettes and enter the world title picture in 2026. A program with Cody Rhodes or Gunther would provide the atmospheric, high-stakes storytelling the main event scene currently craves.

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#4. Giulia

Giulia arrived in WWE with arguably more hype than any international signing in a decade. However, 2025 was a rollercoaster for The Beautiful Madness. Despite a reign as the Women’s United States Champion, her creative direction on SmackDown has often felt stagnant.

Fans have been suggesting that 2026 must be the year WWE stops introducing Giulia and starts treating her like the megastar she is. She possesses a rare, visceral "it-factor" that transcends language barriers. Moving her to RAW to ignite a blood feud with Rhea Ripley could be the only way to capitalize on her potential. She isn’t just a rising star; she is a ready-made WrestleMania main eventer.

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#3. Ilja Dragunov

The Mad Dragon seemingly doesn’t just wrestle; he survives. Since capturing the United States Championship from Sami Zayn in late 2025, Ilja Dragunov has proven that his high-intensity style resonates on the big stage. Every time he steps into the ring, the audience is treated to a level of violence and passion that is unmatched.

By 2026, the midcard will seemingly have nothing left for Ilja to conquer. His "Unbesiegbar" spirit is built for the top of the card. Imagine a world where Dragunov brings his "all-or-nothing" mentality to a World Heavyweight Championship pursuit. He is the ultimate underdog-warrior who could make any champion look beatable, and any title feel prestigious.

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#2. Asuka

It feels wrong to call a Grand Slam Champion a midcarder, but for much of late 2025, The Empress of Tomorrow has been utilized primarily in the tag team division alongside Kairi Sane. While Damage CTRL continues to be a highlight, Asuka remains one of the greatest solo performers in WWE history.

As she enters her second decade with the company, a legend push should be in order. Asuka shouldn't just be helping the next generation; she should be the final boss they have to overcome. A 2026 run where Asuka reverts to her unbeatable persona to reclaim the top women’s title would be a fitting tribute to her ten-year legacy of dominance.

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#1. Former WWE United States Champion Sami Zayn

Many believe that Sami Zayn is the soul of this roster. However, after dropping the United States Championship to Ilja Dragunov, he seems to be back at a crossroads. Despite main-eventing Mania and carrying the show on his back for years, that definitive world title run is the one thing he still hasn't grabbed.

Fans now suggest that the company needs to pull the trigger in 2026. Whether it’s a pursuit of the WWE Championship or the World Heavyweight Title, Sami Zayn seems to represent a connection with the fans that money can't buy. Many believe that he is the modern-day Mick Foley, a man whose eventual crowning moment would go down as one of the most deserved in wrestling history.

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Edited by Sanchari Bhattacharya