The latest installment of ESPN’s annual ranking of the top 30 professional wrestlers under 30 has been unveiled, showcasing a dynamic blend of rising stars and established talent. Several notable wrestlers, including Toni Storm and Logan Paul, missed the cutoff due to age, allowing fresh faces to emerge in this year’s list. The rankings reflect a competitive wrestling landscape, highlighting the depth of talent across various promotions such as WWE, AEW, NJPW, and CMLL.
Dominik Mysterio Dominates Again
Maintaining his position at the top for the second consecutive year, Dominik Mysterio, 28, has truly stepped out of his father Rey Mysterio’s shadow. Known for his entertaining performances and captivating mic skills, he has embraced his role as a beloved villain. Throughout 2025, Mysterio held both the WWE Intercontinental and AAA Mega Championship titles, showcasing his versatility. Though he lost the Intercontinental Championship to John Cena on November 10, he continues to generate significant crowd reactions, establishing himself as one of the most compelling figures in wrestling today.
Rising Stars and Established Talents
Also making waves in the rankings is MJF, 29, who has solidified his reputation as a masterful performer. His 2025 included winning a Casino Gauntlet Match and making headlines with his over-the-top antics, such as threatening to set a rival on fire. MJF’s ability to engage audiences both in the ring and through captivating storylines cements his status as a standout in AEW.
Another prominent name is Rhea Ripley, 29, who has amassed an impressive list of accolades, including being named ESPN’s 2023 Women’s Wrestler of the Year. Her accomplishments span across multiple championships in WWE, including a memorable moment when The Undertaker celebrated her title win on the “Raw” Netflix premiere in January, further elevating her status in the industry.
Young talents are also on the rise. Charlie Fletcher, 26, has demonstrated remarkable growth in 2025, becoming the AEW TNT Champion after a fierce rivalry with Dustin Rhodes. His versatility and improved promo skills make him a competitor to watch.
Another notable entry is Blake Monroe, 27, who transitioned from AEW to NXT this year. After a series of high-profile matches, Monroe captured the NXT Women’s North American Championship, proving her worth in the competitive wrestling scene.
Surprises and New Entrants
A significant surprise in this year’s list is Axiom, 27, who returned to prominence after a brief period of obscurity. His recent performance in a U.S. title open challenge match on “SmackDown” showcased his impressive skills and potential for future success.
Also noteworthy is Vikingo, 28, who faced challenges due to injury but still managed to deliver exhilarating performances, especially after WWE’s acquisition of AAA. His aerial skills and recent character development suggest he could reach new heights in 2026.
Meanwhile, Starlight Kid, 24, has emerged as a key figure in Stardom, holding multiple titles and leading a popular faction. His charisma and in-ring ability continue to resonate with fans, securing his position among the top talents.
As the wrestling world evolves, this year’s rankings reflect not only the individual successes of these athletes but also the broader trends within the industry. With a mix of established stars and emerging talents, the future of professional wrestling looks bright. The depth and variety of talent under 30 continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the ring, making it an exciting time for fans and competitors alike.
