The 30 Best Wrestlers Under 30 (2024 Edition): Mysterio, MJF and Storm Lead the Next Generation

By Mark T. Cyrus Last updated Nov 26, 2024

The landscape of professional wrestling is constantly evolving, with new stars emerging to challenge the established order. This year’s ESPN 30 under 30 list captures this dynamic shift, showcasing the most talented and promising wrestlers under the age of 30 who are poised to shape the future of sports entertainment. This exciting crop of athletes, representing promotions across the globe, brings a diverse array of styles, personalities, and in-ring prowess to the squared circle.

This meticulously curated ranking, compiled by a panel of wrestling experts, goes beyond mere potential. It delves into the current achievements and impact of these young stars, analyzing their drawing power, popularity, in-ring skills, and overall accomplishments. From championship reigns to tournament victories, and from captivating promos to show-stealing matches, these wrestlers have already made their mark on the industry. The list features a diverse range of talent from WWE, AEW, NJPW, and various independent promotions, reflecting the global reach and vibrant landscape of professional wrestling today.

Top 10 Highlights:

Dominik Mysterio (WWE): The ultimate heat magnet, Mysterio has perfected the art of being a despicable heel.
MJF (AEW): Despite battling injuries, MJF remains a top star and arguably the best champion in AEW history.
Toni Storm (AEW): “Timeless” Toni Storm has reinvented herself in AEW, becoming a captivating and unique presence.
Rhea Ripley (WWE): A powerhouse with undeniable charisma, Ripley has transcended the WWE women’s division.
Mariah May (AEW): A rising star with impressive mic skills and heel work, May is a force to be reckoned with.
Konosuke Takeshita (AEW): Known for his blend of power and speed, Takeshita has delivered multiple Match of the Year contenders.
Jack Perry (AEW): Formerly known as Jungle Boy, Perry has thrived as a singles heel and a legitimate face of AEW.
Kyle Fletcher (AEW): The Australian star has had a breakout year, culminating in a show-stealing victory over Will Ospreay at Full Gear.
Daniel Garcia (AEW): Garcia has emerged as a versatile performer, capable of both comedy and intense in-ring action.
Shota Umino (NJPW): Umino is steadily climbing the ranks in NJPW, poised to become the next Ace of the promotion.

Other Notable Names:

Beyond the top 10, the list is packed with rising stars who are making waves in the wrestling world.

Bron Breakker, with his impressive athleticism and lineage, is a force to be reckoned with in WWE.
Kaito Kiyomiya, the “Golden Star” of Pro Wrestling NOAH, continues to shine with his exceptional in-ring storytelling and captivating presence.
El Hijo del Vikingo, a high-flying luchador with a breathtaking arsenal of moves, has wowed audiences with his death-defying athleticism.
Kris Statlander, a rising star in AEW, has impressed with her unique blend of power and agility.
Austin Theory, a rising star in WWE, has the potential to become a future world champion.
Jordynne Grace, a powerhouse with incredible strength, stands out with her unique blend of power and technical skill.
Hook, the son of Taz, has captivated audiences with his silent intensity and impressive suplexes.
Tiffany Stratton, with her undeniable charisma and in-ring talent, is on the fast track to championship gold in WWE.
Mascara Dorada 2.0, a talented luchador carrying on his family’s legacy, has impressed with his high-flying skills and technical prowess.
Roxanne Perez, one of the youngest wrestlers on the list, has shown tremendous potential in NXT.
Wheeler Yuta, a member of the Blackpool Combat Club, has showcased his impressive technical abilities and captivating character work.
Logan Paul, despite being a part-time performer, has impressed with his athleticism and natural heel persona.
Yuma Aoyagi, a rising star in AJPW, has captured championship gold and continues to impress with his unique blend of charisma and in-ring ability.
Gabe Kidd, a rising star in NJPW, has the “it” factor and is poised to become a major player in the company.
Utami Hayashishita, a standout performer in Marigold, has established herself as one of the best women’s wrestlers in the world.
Julia Hart, a member of the House of Black in AEW, has undergone a remarkable transformation and is poised for even greater success.
Jamie Hayter, a resilient performer who has overcome injury, has cemented her status as a top star in AEW.
Shun Skywalker, a high-flying star in Dragongate, has impressed with his innovative offense and captivating presence.
Dragon Lee, a luchador with a high-flying style, has found success in WWE with his unique move-set.
Yuma Anzai, the youngest Triple Crown Heavyweight Champion in AJPW history, has a bright future ahead of him.

A Global Perspective:

This year’s list truly highlights the global nature of professional wrestling. With wrestlers representing promotions from Japan, Mexico, the United States, and beyond, it’s clear that talent knows no borders. This diverse representation not only showcases the global reach of the industry but also highlights the variety of styles and traditions that make professional wrestling so captivating. From the high-flying lucha libre of Mexico to the hard-hitting strong style of Japan, these wrestlers bring a unique flavor to the ring, enriching the global wrestling landscape.

Looking Ahead:

The future of professional wrestling is undoubtedly bright, with this new generation of stars ready to carry the torch. The 30 under 30 list serves as a testament to the incredible talent and dedication of these young athletes. As they continue to evolve and push the boundaries of sports entertainment, fans can expect to witness groundbreaking matches, captivating storylines, and unforgettable moments. These wrestlers are not just the future of the industry; they are the present, captivating audiences with their athleticism, charisma, and passion. The wrestling world is watching, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in their journey to greatness.

Source: ESPN

Follow Mark on X (twitter) @_MarkCyrus and @moosetadon.bsky.social

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