The WWE Draft is set to commence tonight on SmackDown, with the process concluding next week on RAW. The pools for the draft have been revealed, showcasing some intriguing choices regarding which superstars are included and which are notably absent.
Fightful Select notes that among the omissions, Omos and MVP have largely been active in live events since the last draft and remained free agents with MVP managing their kayfabe contract negotiations. Rhea Ripley is currently sidelined with an injury but is anticipated to return to Raw eventually. Dexter Lumis has been absent from the ring and live events since May, with no reported creative plans or injuries. Gable Steveson, despite being drafted previously, has not been utilized and only appeared at a few SmackDown tapings. Nikki Cross has been seen at WWE shows but hasn’t competed in many RAW battle royales for several months.
Tamina, under contract with WWE, has not participated in recent shows and has been inactive for over a year. Erik, with Valhalla occasionally appearing alongside Ivar during his absence due to a neck injury, remains out of action. Brock Lesnar last year negotiated himself into a free agent status. Sonya Deville is recovering from a knee injury, Ridge Holland continues with NXT, and Charlotte Flair along with Shotzi are not expected back in WWE until later this year. Jimmy Uso is currently sidelined with a legitimate injury from an in-storyline attack. Carmella and Alexa Bliss are both on maternity leave and were excluded from the 2023 WWE Draft.
On the inclusion side, Braun Strowman’s draft presence is noteworthy as injured talent typically is not included, suggesting potential plans upon his return. Giovanni Vinci’s solo inclusion after being expelled from Imperium hints at future singles pursuits. Odyssey Jones, after being in last year’s draft pool, appeared on WWE Speed tapings but had limited main roster exposure. Seth Rollins, despite expected time off for knee surgery, was still considered for inclusion in the draft. Logan Paul remains with Smackdown as the United States Champion, although he wasn’t listed in the draft pool. Similarly, Cody Rhodes has officially moved from WWE Raw to Smackdown, reflecting his current status as WWE Champion.
