The WWE landscape is shifting, and some Superstars are feeling the tremors more than others. With Tommaso Ciampa's departure, Johnny Gargano's future looks uncertain, leaving fans wondering if he can thrive as a solo act. But here's where it gets controversial: is Gargano's recent slump a sign of things to come, or can he rise above the challenges? Let's dive into this week's stock report, where fortunes rise and fall in the blink of an eye.
At Cageside, we don't just rank power—we analyze the momentum. In this weekly series, we spotlight three Superstars (or groups) whose stars are ascending and three whose luck seems to be running out. This week was a whirlwind, from Je'Von Evans' abrupt match stoppage on Raw to Jacob Fatu and Cody Rhodes' non-match at Saturday Night's Main Event, and Giulia's potential double championship reign. Buckle up as we dissect who's soaring and who's sinking.
Stock Down #3: Austin Theory
Austin Theory's post-War Games reveal has been a rocky road. Since unmasking, he's competed in four Raw matches, winning only the first. This week, he fell to Rey Mysterio in a six-man tag, though it took brass knuckles and Adam Pearce's interference to seal his fate. While not entirely buried, Theory risks becoming the fall guy for The Vision, absorbing losses to protect stablemates like Bronson Reed, Logan Paul, and Bron Breakker. Is this his role moving forward, or can he break free?
Stock Down #2: Johnny Gargano
Tommaso Ciampa's WWE exit leaves Gargano as a singles competitor on SmackDown, and his 2026 solo run hasn't been promising. Losses to Carmelo Hayes and Nathan Frazer raise questions about his future. The defeat to Frazer, in particular, suggests Gargano might struggle to climb the card without Ciampa by his side. Can he reinvent himself, or is he destined to fade into the background? And this is the part most people miss: Gargano's success as a solo act could redefine his legacy.
Stock Down #1: Wyatt Sicks
Uncle Howdy's eerie faction lost the WWE Tag Team Championship to Solo Sikoa's MFT on SmackDown. While the MFTs aren't exactly fan favorites, the title change likely signaled the end of the Wyatts' underwhelming reign. Though the family lantern remains in play, the Wyatts' peak push may be behind them. Without fresh ideas, their act risks growing stale. Are they headed for a downward spiral, or can they recapture fan interest?
Now, let's shift gears to those on the rise.
Stock Up #3: Natalya
Natalya's heel turn on Raw, costing Maxxine Dupri the Intercontinental title against Becky Lynch, has breathed new life into her career. While her primary role may be to elevate Maxxine, this is a significant upgrade from her previous absence from TV. Heading into WrestleMania, Natalya is back in the spotlight, even if it's as a villain. Is this the start of a new chapter for her?
Stock Up #2: Sami Zayn
Sami Zayn's Fatal 4-way victory in his hometown of Montreal secured him a WWE Championship match against Drew McIntyre at the Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia. Though an underdog, Zayn's pursuit of the title keeps him relevant. With Saudi influence in play, could a title change be on the horizon? Even if he loses, WWE's continued investment in his story suggests a future payoff. Will Zayn finally reach the top?
Stock Up #1: CM Punk
Amidst the WWE championship scene's chaos, CM Punk stands tall. Holding the World Heavyweight Title, he defended it against Finn Bálor in Ireland on Raw. With no immediate threats aside from part-timers like Roman Reigns or Brock Lesnar, Punk is a safe bet for another WrestleMania main event. His stability contrasts sharply with the turmoil surrounding other titles. Can anyone dethrone him?
There you have it, Cagesiders. Whose stock shift surprised you most this week? And here’s a thought-provoking question: With Ciampa gone, is Johnny Gargano’s solo career doomed, or can he prove the doubters wrong? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
