
Tue Dec 30 03:00:00 UTC 2025: Wrestling’s Rising Stars: Breakout Talents Dominate 2025
New York, NY – While established names continued to hold court in the wrestling world, 2025 saw a surge of talent reaching new heights in both WWE and AEW. Several performers delivered career-defining performances, setting the stage for even bigger things in 2026.
In WWE, Cody Rhodes maintained his dominance as Undisputed WWE Champion, while Seth Rollins thrived as Raw’s top heel, capturing the World Heavyweight Championship. However, the year also belonged to stars like Jey Uso, who finally broke through as a main-event player, winning the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania 41.
Across the aisle in AEW, familiar faces like Jon Moxley, Adam Page, Swerve Strickland, and Samoa Joe remained central figures. Yet, performers such as Kyle Fletcher stepped into the spotlight. Fletcher’s feud with Will Ospreay and subsequent TNT Championship win solidified his status as a future world title contender.
Other notable breakouts included:
- Bronson Reed (WWE): After struggling to find his footing, Reed aligned with The Vision and scored a major victory over Roman Reigns, positioning himself for championship gold.
- Bandido (AEW): Returning from injury, Bandido captured the ROH World Championship, the AEW World Tag Team Championship, and the Dynamite Diamond Ring, showcasing his incredible athleticism and earning a shot at the AEW World Championship.
- Iyo Sky (WWE): Sky’s remarkable performances and Women’s World Championship reign cemented her place as a top star in WWE’s women’s division.
- Ricochet (AEW): A heel turn revitalized Ricochet’s career, leading to the AEW National Championship and a newfound focus on his character work.
- Dominik Mysterio (WWE): Mysterio’s Intercontinental Championship reign and growing popularity within The Judgment Day have positioned him as a potential future world champion.
- Mercedes Moné (AEW): Moné broke records as AEW TBS champion and delivered stellar performances in Women’s World Championship matches.
These eight individuals not only broke out but did their strongest work to date. They’re primed for bigger and better things going into 2026.