Grayson Aussie

Grayson Waller: WWE’s Most Underrated Rising Star

In the fast-paced, ever-evolving world of professional wrestling, it’s easy for talent to get lost in the shuffle—especially when they don’t fit the traditional mold of a WWE superstar. In an era where larger-than-life personas often overshadow substance, Grayson Waller is a rare blend of charisma, athleticism, and mic skills who has, inexplicably, flown under the radar. But not for long.

From his humble beginnings on the Australian indie circuit to becoming one of WWE's most promising yet overlooked stars, Waller's journey is a study in persistence, performance, and untapped potential. This blog delves deep into why Grayson Waller deserves far more recognition than he currently receives—and why his future might just be main-event gold.

The Beginnings: From Sydney to the Spotlight

Grayson Waller, real name Matthew Farrelly, was born in Sydney, Australia. Before he ever stepped into a wrestling ring, he was already a public figure in his own right. As a former school teacher and contestant on the Australian version of Survivor, Waller was no stranger to the spotlight or pressure. This experience gave him an edge—a comfort in front of the camera that would serve him well when he transitioned into pro wrestling.

Waller began his wrestling journey in Australia, competing under the name “Matty Wahlberg” on the indie scene. It was here that he crafted his brash, arrogant persona—one that stood out in a region not yet fully recognized for its wrestling exports. Australia has long been overlooked as a breeding ground for wrestling talent, but performers like Waller, along with peers like Rhea Ripley and Buddy Matthews, helped change that perception.

His success on the indies eventually led to a contract with WWE in 2021. Rebranded as Grayson Waller, he debuted on 205 Live and NXT—and it didn’t take long for him to make an impression.

The NXT Years: A Star Waiting to Break Out

In NXT, Grayson Waller immediately demonstrated what makes him special. While many wrestlers need time to find their voice, Waller hit the ground running. His combination of braggadocio, quick wit, and in-ring talent made him stand out from the pack. He wasn't trying to be anyone else—he was creating a new archetype: the influencer-heel hybrid. A loudmouthed, camera-ready provocateur who brought TikTok energy into WWE’s squared circle.

Waller’s feuds with Johnny Gargano, LA Knight, and Bron Breakker were among NXT’s most engaging. He excelled as the antagonist you loved to hate, delivering scathing promos and even more impressive matches. His diving stunner finisher—executed by leaping through the ropes—became a signature moment in every match. But more than just the flash, Waller’s psychology, pacing, and ability to draw heat from the crowd showed a maturity beyond his years.

Still, despite consistent performances, he never quite got the spotlight of an NXT title run. Waller was often the guy pushing others to the next level. In many ways, he was the perfect utility player—elevating babyfaces, injecting heat into midcard feuds, and adding flavor to every segment he touched. But WWE didn't quite commit to him at the main event level in NXT, a decision that feels increasingly shortsighted.

The Call-Up: Grayson Waller on the Main Roster

When Grayson Waller was called up to SmackDown in 2023, fans hoped it would be the breakout opportunity he deserved. Initially, he appeared in non-wrestling roles, hosting the “Grayson Waller Effect,” a talk show segment that gave him the chance to showcase his true strength—his mic skills.

From an entertainment standpoint, few could touch him. Waller demonstrated natural charisma and fearlessness, going toe-to-toe on the mic with legends like Edge, John Cena, and Logan Paul. He showed no hesitation, no nervous energy—only confidence. It was as if he knew he belonged, even when others hadn’t quite accepted it yet.

His pairing with Austin Theory, another underrated talent, created one of WWE’s most entertaining heel duos. They had chemistry, swagger, and the perfect mix of comedy and menace. Yet once again, while the internet buzzed and fans cheered (or booed, appropriately), Waller remained just beneath that main-event threshold.

So why is Grayson Waller underrated? Because he checks every box that WWE should want in a top-tier star:

• Charisma: He lights up a microphone and owns the moment.

• In-Ring Ability: Crisp, creative, and adaptive. He can work with anyone.

• Marketability: His look, accent, and style are unique and globally appealing.

• Consistency: Whether it’s a promo segment or a match, he delivers.

And yet, despite all of this, WWE has been slow to pull the trigger. Waller hasn’t had a major singles push, a title run, or even a long-form feud that puts him center stage. For a guy this good, that’s baffling.

The Comparison Game: Why Waller Should Be Higher

WWE has always been a company that thrives on larger-than-life characters and moments. But in recent years, we’ve seen the rise of new archetypes: the indie darling (Sami Zayn), the workhorse (Gunther), and the entertainer-athlete hybrid (Logan Paul). Waller fits into all of these categories to some degree—yet he’s rarely mentioned among them.

Logan Paul, for instance, has skyrocketed with a similar influencer energy, yet Waller brings that same vibe with more wrestling experience. He has the potential to be what The Miz was for WWE in the late 2000s: a constant presence who can be comedic or serious, a credible threat or a gateway for newer stars.

But unlike The Miz’s slow burn to main-event status, Waller’s path seems unnecessarily delayed. One could argue WWE is playing the long game, waiting for the right moment—but in the process, they risk missing the boat entirely.

What the Future Holds

Grayson Waller’s ceiling in WWE is as high as he wants it to be. The company is in dire need of fresh voices and characters who can bridge the gap between traditional wrestling fans and younger, social media-savvy audiences. Waller is that bridge. He understands the importance of presentation, engagement, and brand-building in a way few others do.

Short-Term Potential:

• A midcard title reign (U.S. or Intercontinental Championship) could be the perfect launching pad.

• A feud with a major babyface like LA Knight, Cody Rhodes, or even a returning Randy Orton could elevate him.

• Continued spotlight with the “Grayson Waller Effect” keeps him visible even outside the ring.

Long-Term Vision:

• Grayson Waller is a future world champion. Not just for the sake of a fresh face, but because he gets it. He understands the rhythm of WWE: heat, story, and spectacle.

• A potential babyface turn (down the line) could open up even more layers of his character.

• Crossover appeal—media appearances, podcasting, or outside-WWE ventures—could position him as a company ambassador.

But perhaps most importantly, Waller has the potential to be a generational villain. Not in the overdone, cartoonish way—but in the sharp, real-world arrogance that cuts deep. He doesn’t need to scream to be heard. He doesn’t need to dominate to be relevant. He just is.

The Bottom Line: It’s Time to Invest in Grayson Waller

In professional wrestling, the truly special talents are often the ones you can drop into any segment, and they make it better. Grayson Waller is that kind of performer. Whether it’s a promo with a legend, a tag team match, or a main-event level feud, he elevates the product.

Yet, for reasons that remain unclear, WWE hasn’t given him the rocket push he deserves. Maybe it’s politics. Maybe it’s timing. Maybe it's just the unpredictability of the business. But make no mistake: the fans are noticing. The locker room is noticing. And eventually, WWE leadership will have to notice.

Grayson Waller is not just another heel. He’s not just another guy with a talk show. He is one of the most complete, compelling, and forward-thinking performers WWE has in its arsenal. If handled correctly, he could be the face of a new generation—not just in how wrestling is done, but in how it’s sold.

In an industry built on hype and hyperbole, one truth stands clear:

Grayson Waller isn’t just underrated. He’s next.