As WWE heads into a new era of creative leadership under Triple H, the ongoing search for dynamic managers is heating up, especially with Paul Heyman currently thriving in his role on RAW. The spotlight is now on finding WWE legends who could replace Paul Heyman on SmackDown and take the blue brand’s storytelling to another level, making fans wonder who will emerge as the next big managerial presence.
With the women’s division and tag teams showing impressive growth, the return of influential managers could elevate Friday nights. Here’s a look at four wrestling icons who could redefine the manager’s role on SmackDown and possibly shape new stars in surprising ways.
Lana: The Ravishing Russian’s Chance for a Major Comeback
Lana, remembered for her bold persona and memorable managing stints, stands out as a potential game-changer for SmackDown. Known as The Ravishing Russian, she managed Rusev and teamed up with talents such as Aiden English, Dolph Ziggler, and Bobby Lashley, creating engaging rivalries and stories along the way. Her experience and ability to drive narrative make her an appealing candidate to manage new or returning talent.
Earlier this year, Lana returned into the WWE spotlight by signing a new Legend’s Contract, coinciding with her husband Rusev’s own WWE comeback. This partnership could see her returning to television in a new capacity.
If she were to return as a heel manager, Lana could bring out the ruthless side of a rising competitor like Nia Jax, adding drama and complexity to the division. She might also use her managerial tact with someone like Andrade, helping elevate his standing and ignite fresh storylines on the blue brand.
Rikishi: The Samoan Great as SmackDown’s Guiding Voice
WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi, celebrated for his energetic charisma and deep wrestling roots, offers another compelling option for the SmackDown manager’s role. His storied career includes capturing the Intercontinental Championship, and his status as a Samoan Legend ties directly to key storylines within WWE’s modern landscape.
Rikishi has recently attracted attention for championing the success of his family, notably sons Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, and Solo Sikoa. As the wrestling world watches the evolution of The Bloodline saga, Rikishi’s inclusion could provide a powerful twist.
While his sons Jimmy and Jey have shifted into fan-favorite roles, the WWE universe could see Rikishi step into the managerial position for Solo Sikoa’s New Bloodline. In doing so, he would parallel Paul Heyman’s previous role as The Wiseman, bringing a genuine family connection and a new kind of intensity to Friday nights.
Trish Stratus: Bringing Hall of Fame Experience to a New Generation
Trish Stratus’s legacy as a trailblazer for women’s wrestling and her status as a WWE Hall of Famer make her an exciting name to consider for SmackDown’s next top manager. She made her mark during the Attitude and Ruthless Aggression Eras, transforming how female athletes were perceived in WWE.
Trish regularly returns for high-profile feuds, including recent storylines with Tiffany Stratton, Nia Jax, and Candice LeRae. While a full-time in-ring comeback is unlikely, her credibility could lift new talents in a different position. She was nearly a manager for Zoey Stark—and building on that concept, she could bring her guidance to up-and-coming superstars.
Whether aligning with breakout stars like Giulia, powerhouse figures such as Omos, or NXT prospects like Jordynne Grace, Trish Stratus’s presence could be the catalyst for transformative rivalries and elevate the women’s division even further.
The Undertaker: The Deadman as Mastermind and Mentor
The Undertaker, an icon whose career spanned from 1990 to 2020, has continuously influenced new talent, both on- and off-screen. Although retired from regular competition, The Deadman remains actively involved in WWE’s developmental system, serving as a coach for the LFG program and surprising audiences with his rare appearances, especially in NXT.
Wrestling veteran Konnan previously commented that Undertaker showed interest in taking on a creative backstage position. Even if such a move hasn’t fully materialized, there’s real intrigue in seeing him step into the SmackDown managerial spotlight.
With his history supporting and guiding emerging talent, Undertaker could debut as a mentor-turned-manager, perhaps bringing an NXT talent like Jasper Troy onto the main roster. Additionally, he is known for his admiration of Oba Femi, and the pairing of these two on SmackDown could be a defining moment for both the brand and WWE’s future stars.
The Impact of Reviving Legendary Managers on SmackDown
Bringing back the tradition of larger-than-life managers offers WWE an opportunity to enrich SmackDown’s storytelling and boost both established stars and newcomers. With Paul Heyman currently making waves on RAW by managing Seth Rollins, Bron Breakker, and Bronson Reed, SmackDown fans are eager to see who might fill a similar void and reshape the brand’s identity.
Triple H’s leadership is fostering innovation in WWE’s creative direction, and if any of these legends—Lana, Rikishi, Trish Stratus, or The Undertaker—embrace a managerial role, SmackDown could enjoy a new wave of excitement, rivalries, and legendary moments that further secure its place in wrestling history.
