Former WWE Star AJ Francis: Hit Row’s Potential Was Left Untapped

One big thing: Hit Row’s unrealized potential

Former WWE star AJ Francis (fka Top Dolla) believes that “a lot of greatness” was left unexplored with the Hit Row stable before their WWE release.

Key points:

• Hit Row had a successful run in NXT before a brief stint on SmackDown in 2021.
• The group was released just a month after their main roster call-up.
• Swerve Strickland signed with AEW, while the others briefly returned to WWE.
• Francis is now competing in TNA Wrestling.

Why it matters

Hit Row’s short-lived main roster run represents a missed opportunity for WWE to capitalize on a fresh and popular act, potentially impacting the company’s ability to create new stars.

By the numbers

• Hit Row formed in May 2021
• Called up to SmackDown in October 2021
• Released in November 2021
• 3 out of 4 members returned to WWE in August 2022

What they’re saying

Francis told Straight Talk Wrestling:

“There was a lot of wasted opportunity. Look at what Swerve’s doing in AEW, look what I’ve been doing in TNA, look what Ashante ‘Thee’ Adonis, look what he’s doing in NXT, look at what B-Fab has been doing. There was a lot of greatness that was left on the table for one reason or another.”

The big picture

Francis’s comments highlight the ongoing challenge WWE faces in fully utilizing its diverse talent pool and creating opportunities for new stars to emerge. The success of former Hit Row members in other promotions may lead to re-evaluation of WWE’s creative decisions.

What’s next

Francis believes it’s “only a matter of time before history corrects itself,” hinting at potential future opportunities for Hit Row or its individual members.

Do you think WWE missed out on a major opportunity with Hit Row? Share your thoughts in the comments below!