As noted, WWE has released their rules and names eligible for this Tuesday’s WWE Smackdown Live draft, which will effectively divide the roster into two exclusive rosters. Among the top names expected to be drafted quickly are Roman Reigns, John Cena, Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins, and of course any other current reigning champions, as well as NXT talents looking to be called up.
There are a few notable names NOT on the list of eligible talents, however. Among those names is The Undertaker, who is not expected back until next year’s WrestleMania, if he decides to return at all. Triple H, who is not expected to return to the ring any time soon, is also not on the list. As has been the case in the past with returning legends and one-off matches, if and when either decide to step back into the ring, they will likely make appearances on the same brand as whatever opponent they are slated to face and are otherwise unaffected by the draft.
Former Divas Champion Nikki Bella, who has been out of action since 2015, wasn’t mentioned. Tamina and Luke Harper, who are also injured, were off the list as well. Rosa Mendes, who recently had a child and whose in-ring future is currently unknown, will also not be drafted.
Of those names, the only real interesting situation is where Luke Harper ends up. If the Wyatt Family manages to stay together in the draft, he’ll likely show up wherever the rest of his faction does. If the team is split up, his future becomes a bit more unclear.
Ryback is also not on the list, as the disgruntled star has been off television dealing with a contract dispute between himself and the company.
