The search for a Chad Gable El Grande Americano replacement has become urgent after Gable’s injury and subsequent surgery, leaving a major gap in WWE’s roster. With Gable suddenly written off following a dramatic attack by Penta, speculation is swirling about which WWE superstar will next don the masked luchador persona.
WWE’s Wave of Injuries and Gable’s Absence
WWE has been grappling with a series of injuries in 2025, sidelining major talents such as Kevin Owens, Rey Mysterio, and Liv Morgan, all of whom have been forced to take significant time away because of medical concerns. Adding to this list, Chad Gable suffered a staged backstage assault at the hands of Penta, targeting Gable’s arm and setting up his necessary departure from television for surgical treatment. This scripted incident was designed specifically to explain Gable’s absence from ongoing storylines, but now opens a pressing question about the future of his masked alter-ego, El Grande Americano, who currently holds the Speed Championship.
Potential Candidates Emerge for El Grande Americano
Because El Grande Americano is a masked character, WWE has the option to insert another wrestler under the mask without much narrative disruption. WWE fans are left debating who is most likely to step into the role, with the list of potential successors ranging from Gable’s current stablemates, underutilized superstars, and even some of his former rivals. The uncertainty adds to wider fan uncertainty, amplified by the company’s wider injury struggles.
The Creed Brothers: Tag Team Opportunity
The Creed Brothers, Brutus and Julius, are current WWE RAW competitors who began as standout performers in the NXT brand, at one time capturing the coveted NXT Tag Team Titles. Although they joined the main roster amid high expectations, initial momentum faded quickly, leaving the team struggling for meaningful direction on WWE programming. Their recent stint in the American Made stable allowed them to regain some fan interest, yet they remain underused.
With Gable now sidelined, there is growing support for the idea that The Creed Brothers could alternate as El Grande Americano. Rather than one brother exclusively playing the character, the creative twist could see Julius and Brutus swapping in and out of the mask on alternate shows. This comic scenario would likely amuse fans, while simultaneously frustrating opponents due to the obvious physical differences between the brothers. It’s a lighthearted but viable path—one that keeps both men visible during a turbulent time for the roster.
Ludwig Kaiser: A Skillful Candidate Awaiting Another Push
Ludwig Kaiser remains an impressive and versatile wrestler, boasting the ability to mix brawling with technical prowess and delivering impactful promos. His past accolades include the NXT Tag Team titles alongside Giovanni Vinci. Despite a strong push last year that saw him split from Gunther and launch a singles pursuit, his screen time lessened this year, leading to concern among his fans about stalled momentum.
Kaiser recently made a subtle appearance on RAW, reacting to Chad Gable’s attack by Penta. This moment has been interpreted by some fans as a possible foreshadowing of him taking over the El Grande Americano gimmick. Such a move could revitalize Kaiser’s standing in the company and solve WWE’s need for a strong performer to carry on the Speed Championship storyline during Gable’s recovery.
Otis: A Humorous but Logical Replacement
Otis, a former WWE RAW Tag Team Champion and Mr. Money in the Bank, has been absent from television since his on-screen fallout with Chad Gable and his subsequent removal from The Alpha Academy stable. Recently, Otis was referenced in passing, while his last significant match saw him losing to Rusev. This extended absence has left Otis in limbo, yet it could provide WWE with an opportunity to bring him back under new circumstances. Having Otis return as El Grande Americano would likely be comical, as his physique and personality are difficult to disguise, but the comedic value could appeal to both audiences and creative. This scenario takes on an extra layer of irony due to Otis’s history with Gable, making it a potentially insulting—but entertaining—turn for the storyline.
The Stakes for WWE Moving Forward
With the Chad Gable El Grande Americano replacement now a pressing concern, WWE faces both creative challenges and opportunities. Naming a new masked champion offers a solution to continue the Speed Championship’s momentum, consolidate sagging storylines, and provide underused or returning stars, such as The Creed Brothers, Ludwig Kaiser, or Otis, with meaningful screen time. However, fan reactions may be turbulent, especially if the transition is handled too lightly or appears to ignore established character histories.
As WWE weighs its options in managing an injury-plagued roster, the company must balance fan expectations, character integrity, and live-event excitement. Whoever takes up the El Grande Americano mantle will not only shape the Speed Championship’s future, but will also play a crucial role in keeping storylines fresh and unpredictable during a rocky period for WWE programming.
