WWE Draft 2024: A New Era for SmackDown and Raw

The wait is finally over, wrestling fans! The highly anticipated WWE Draft 2024 has kicked off, and the squared circle will never be the same. On April 26, 2024, the first night of the draft took place on SmackDown, marking a new era for both SmackDown and Raw.

The draft pools were announced on April 24, 2024, revealing the reigning champions who would be included in the draft. World Heavyweight Champion Damian Priest, Women's World Champion Becky Lynch, Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn, and World Tag Team Champions Awesome Truth (The Miz and R-Truth) for Raw, and World Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns, Women's World Champion Ronda Rousey, Universal Champion Brock Lesnar, and SmackDown Tag Team Champions Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode for SmackDown. However, in a shocking twist, Roman Reigns withdrew his name from the draft.

The first round saw Bianca Belair go No. 1 overall on SmackDown, selecting Carmelo Hayes as her rookie pick. On Raw, Jey Uso was chosen as Seth "Freakin" Rollins' teammate to form a new faction. The night also marked the shift of Bron Breakker from SmackDown to Raw, further shaking up the landscape.

Night 1 Highlights: SmackDown

• Bianca Belair's No. 1 overall pick: Carmelo Hayes was drafted by Bianca, marking a significant move for the young wrestler.
• Randy Orton was selected by Bianca in Round 2, further solidifying her roster.
• Nia Jax rounded out SmackDown's first round with her selection.

Night 1 Highlights: Raw

• Bron Breakker made his debut on Monday Night RAW, shifting from SmackDown to the new brand.
• Seth "Freakin" Rollins' rookie pick was drafted by Jey Uso, adding a new dimension to their faction.

Fan Reactions:

"WWE Draft 2024 is going to be EPIC! I'm so hyped for Bianca's first round picks and the possibilities for Carmelo Hayes on SmackDown!" - @WrestlingFan22

"I love how this draft is shaking up the landscape. Can't wait to see what Roman Reigns does next!" - @RomanReigns4Life

Impact on WWE: A New Era

The WWE Draft 2024 has not only reshuffled the roster but also set the stage for new alliances, feuds, and storylines. As the draft continues on Monday Night RAW, expect more surprises and plot twists that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

In conclusion, the first night of the WWE Draft 2024 was an exciting one, full of surprises and anticipation for what's to come. With Bianca Belair leading the charge, Carmelo Hayes looking to make a name for himself, and Bron Breakker making his debut on Raw, the stage is set for a new era in WWE. Stay tuned for more updates and don't miss out on the action as the draft continues!

Sources

• https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/wwe-draft
• https://www.wwe.com/article/every-2024-wwe-draft-pick
• https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10118779-wwe-draft-2024-results-updated-rosters-for-raw-and-smackdown-after-night-1
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2024_WWE_Draft
• https://www.wwe.com/article/2024-wwe-draft-rules
• https://www.reddit.com/r/WWE/comments/1ce2un0/2024_wwe_draft_results_discussion/
• https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2024/04/30/wwe-draft-results-rosters-raw-smackdown-2024/73514427007/
• https://www.thesmackdownhotel.com/roster/wwe/
• https://www.smarkoutmoment.com/p/wwe-ppv-schedule-list.html
• https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2024-wwe-draft-night-1-results