2017 WWE Draft: A Comprehensive Overview Of The Game-Changing Event

The 2017 WWE Draft marked a significant turning point in the world of professional wrestling, reshaping the landscape of WWE as we know it. This event not only redefined rosters but also reinvigorated storylines and rivalries, providing fans with fresh matchups and new opportunities for their favorite superstars. In this article, we will delve into the details of the 2017 WWE Draft, exploring its implications, key moments, and the overall impact it had on the WWE universe.

The WWE Draft is a highly anticipated event that occurs periodically, allowing the company to redistribute its talent between its two flagship brands, Raw and SmackDown. The 2017 draft was particularly notable because it coincided with the return of the brand split, which had been a defining feature of WWE programming in the past. This article will outline the structure of the draft, the superstars involved, and the reactions from fans and industry experts alike.

As we navigate through the intricacies of the 2017 WWE Draft, we will examine the strategies employed by both brands, the surprises that unfolded during the selections, and how the draft reshaped the trajectories of various wrestlers. Whether you're a die-hard WWE fan or a casual viewer, this comprehensive overview will provide valuable insights into one of the most transformative events in wrestling history.

Table of Contents

• Background of the WWE Draft
• The Draft Process Explained
• Key Selections of the 2017 Draft
• Impact on WWE Rosters
• Fan Reaction to the 2017 Draft
• Post-Draft Storylines and Rivalries
• Statistics and Data from the Draft
• Conclusion and Future Implications

Background of the WWE Draft

The concept of the WWE Draft first emerged in 2002 as a means to create distinct brands within the organization. This allowed for the development of rivalries and storylines that could be explored independently on each show. The 2017 WWE Draft was the first full-scale draft since the brand split was reintroduced in 2016, setting the stage for a new era of competition and excitement.

History of the WWE Draft

Over the years, the WWE Draft has seen various formats and rules, evolving into a highly strategic event. Here are some key historical points:

• 2002: The inaugural draft took place, introducing the concept of brand exclusivity.
• 2011: The draft transitioned to a supplemental draft format, limiting the main event's impact.
• 2016: The brand split returned, creating a renewed interest in the draft process.

The Draft Process Explained

The 2017 WWE Draft featured a unique format designed to maximize excitement and anticipation. The draft was conducted in a live format during a special episode of SmackDown, allowing fans to witness the selections as they happened. Each brand had a predetermined number of picks, with Raw having three picks for every two made by SmackDown.

Selection Strategy

WWE utilized a combination of fan votes, expert opinions, and internal assessments to determine the order of selections. This ensured that each brand could strategically bolster its roster with top talent while also considering the overall balance of the divisions.

Key Selections of the 2017 Draft

Several high-profile superstars were selected during the 2017 WWE Draft, each bringing their unique skills and personas to their respective brands. Here’s a closer look at some of the most notable picks:

• Alexa Bliss: Selected by SmackDown, Bliss quickly became a prominent figure in the women's division.
• Jinder Mahal: His selection by SmackDown led to an unexpected rise to the WWE Championship later that year.
• Finn Balor: A top pick for Raw, Balor's presence added depth to the roster.
• Kevin Owens: Another key selection for SmackDown, Owens continued to thrive in his role as a top heel.

Impact on WWE Rosters

The 2017 WWE Draft significantly changed the dynamics of both Raw and SmackDown. Each brand was tasked with building compelling storylines and rivalries with their newly acquired talent. This section will explore the immediate effects on the rosters.

Raw vs. SmackDown: The Competition Heats Up

The competitive spirit between Raw and SmackDown intensified after the draft, leading to the following:

• More exclusive feuds and storylines tailored to the talents on each brand.
• Increased viewership as fans tuned in to see how their favorite superstars would fare against new opponents.
• A renewed focus on the importance of brand loyalty among fans.

Fan Reaction to the 2017 Draft

The 2017 WWE Draft elicited a wide range of reactions from fans, with many expressing enthusiasm for the new matchups and storylines that emerged post-draft. Social media platforms buzzed with discussions about the selections and potential rivalries.

Social Media Buzz

Fans took to Twitter and Instagram to share their thoughts, with hashtags like #WWEDraft trending during the event. Many praised the decisions made by WWE, while others voiced their disappointment over certain superstars not being selected.

Post-Draft Storylines and Rivalries

Following the draft, WWE Creative began to weave new narratives that capitalized on the fresh rosters. Some standout storylines included:

• Jinder Mahal's Championship Run: His rise to the WWE Championship was a highlight of the SmackDown roster.
• Women's Revolution: The influx of female talent led to an exciting era in women's wrestling.
• Brand Warfare: The competitive nature of Raw and SmackDown set the stage for Survivor Series matches.

Statistics and Data from the Draft

To understand the impact of the 2017 WWE Draft, it's essential to examine some key statistics:

• Total Superstars Drafted: 32
• Number of Titles Changed Hands Post-Draft: 4
• Viewer Ratings Increase: 15% in the following weeks

Conclusion and Future Implications

The 2017 WWE Draft was a pivotal event that reshaped the structure of WWE programming, introducing fresh talent and invigorating storylines that resonated with fans. As we look ahead, the ramifications of this draft continue to influence the direction of WWE, demonstrating the importance of strategic roster management in professional wrestling.

We invite you to share your thoughts about the 2017 WWE Draft in the comments below. What were your favorite moments? Did your favorite superstar get the recognition they deserved? Don't forget to share this article with fellow wrestling fans and explore more content on our site!

Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you back for more exciting discussions about the world of professional wrestling!