WWE SmackDown has started a new chapter in 2026 with its transition back to a three-hour format, introducing fresh talent like Jordynne Grace, Matt Cardona, and Trick Williams. This new structure sets the stage for an expanded WWE SmackDown stars push as the company works to build up key wrestlers for the future.
The show recently saw Jacob Fatu’s return after a lengthy absence, immediately placing him in high-profile matches. However, WWE also needs to strengthen the overall roster to provide fans with multiple stars to support and follow. Below are six WWE SmackDown performers who are poised for significant pushes during this pivotal year.
Sami Zayn’s Potential Rise to World Champion Status
Sami Zayn has expressed his ambitions to claim a world championship in 2026, positioning himself as a strong contender for the Undisputed WWE Championship tournament and the 2026 Men’s Royal Rumble Match. Known as the “Underdog From the Underground,” Zayn has long been a top babyface and could finally be given the prominence of a world title run. Currently, WWE lacks pure babyfaces in the main event scene, making Zayn a prime candidate to connect with audiences as a leading hero figure this year.
The Street Profits’ Opportunity to Lead the Tag Team Division
Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins, collectively known as The Street Profits, have been absent from WWE SmackDown since October, halting their momentum after ending their title drought in 2025. With the tag team division needing strong representatives, this pair deserves to reclaim the spotlight and become the faces of tag team competition in 2026. Their return could revitalize the division and provide exciting narratives for fans.
Johnny Gargano’s Chance for a New Chapter
Johnny Gargano has built his reputation as a quintessential babyface during his NXT days, although he has recently portrayed a heel alongside Tommaso Ciampa on the main roster. Rumors suggest Ciampa’s WWE tenure may be over, opening the door for Gargano to revert to a babyface and pursue singles success. A potential push for the United States Title could position Gargano as a significant mid-card star, reigniting his underdog persona and offering fresh storylines.
Matt Cardona’s Return with a New Persona
After making a one-time appearance as Zack Ryder in the Last Time is Now Tournament, Matt Cardona returned to WWE under a reinvented gimmick. To gain credibility and momentum following his independent circuit achievements, WWE might plan to elevate Cardona as a top babyface. Starting with a strong presence in the mid-card division, Cardona’s trajectory could eventually lead to a world title challenge, offering a fresh contender for major storylines.
Trick Williams: A Bright Future on the Main Roster
Trick Williams exhibited star potential during his NXT tenure, successfully transferring that energy to the main roster. Renowned for his exceptional mic skills and commanding presence, Williams is seen as one of WWE’s emerging talents. Currently performing as a heel, he has demonstrated versatility and is positioned to receive a substantial push in his first full main roster year. This could establish him as a prominent figure for years to come, contributing significantly to WWE SmackDown’s future.
Significance of These Upcoming Pushes for WWE SmackDown
The 2026 WWE SmackDown lineup reflects the company’s intention to rejuvenate its roster with a mix of established talents and newcomers ready to rise. Elevating these six stars—Sami Zayn, The Street Profits, Johnny Gargano, Matt Cardona, Trick Williams, and Jacob Fatu—will diversify the storylines and championship scenes. As WWE adapts to its extended show format, building multiple compelling characters is essential to maintain viewer interest and compete in the evolving wrestling landscape.
By focusing on these performers’ development and championship pursuits, WWE SmackDown aims to create new fan favorites and memorable moments, shaping the brand’s identity throughout 2026 and beyond.
If Roman Reigns vs. Cody Rhodes has been scrapped for WrestleMania 42…
That paves the way for Sami Zayn to finally become a world champion.
Pull the trigger. pic.twitter.com/e7zNtrLWwr
— Finesse (@ProWFinesse) January 13, 2026
