What is a common link between John Cena, Randy Orton, Dave Bautista, and Brock Lesnar? Well, of course, they all are WWE Superstars. However, an astonishing fact is that all these prospective Hall of Famers were all a member of the famous “Class of 2002”.
WWE’s former developmental territory Ohio Valley Wrestling churned out a class of rookies unlike any other in 2002. These names exploded into superstardom and went on to become the most decorated names in wrestling. Interestingly, even though these four are incredibly talented athletes, there was someone even more athletic hired by WWE that same year!
Jim Ross Believes Shelton Benjamin Was The Most Athletic Wrestlers WWE’s Class of 2002 Over The Likes Of John Cena and Brock Lesnar
Jim Ross is a legendary figure in professional wrestling. For decades, Ross’s booming voice and insightful commentary have been the voice of the sport. During his time as head of talent relations for WWE, Ross’s keen eye for potential played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s future.
One wrestler who particularly impressed him with his athletic prowess was Shelton Benjamin. While future megastars like John Cena and Brock Lesnar garnered significant attention, Ross claimed Benjamin was the most athletic of the bunch in a recent episode of the Grilling JR podcast.
“You get him a single run with somebody who could actually really wrestle and let him show his skills. Then, you find a partner for him and let Shelton’s experience help build a foundation for a tag team. I’m a big fan of Shelton Benjamin. When we recruited Cena [John Cena], Brock [Brock Lesnar], Orton [Randy Orton], and Batista, the best athlete of that group was Shelton.”
Sure, superstars like Cena, Batista, and Lesnar went on to dominate the squared circle, but Shelton Benjamin’s in-ring performances were equally impressive. Fans can never forget the high jump he took from one corner of a ring to get kicked mid-air by Shawn Michaels in the other corner.
Jim Ross Discusses What Was The Issue With Shelton Benjamin
From a great shape to exemplary athletics. Shelton Benjamin had everything that it took to be a great wrestler. However, there is perhaps another thing that takes to be a great WWE Superstar and it is personality.
Jim Ross believes Benjamin was lacking in this department. However, he is a team player, and any locker room will definitely benefit from his presence, as per Ross.
“Shelton’s issue was personality, connecting with the audience. I love Shelton. A company guy, a team player, he came from a team environment, which is always important to me. I’m a big fan of his work and him as a man. He would help any locker room. I can just imagine what kind of mentor he would be to some of the kids, not just his color, not African-American only, but young talent. Shelton’s journey has been well documented and I’m proud I got to hire him. He’s a credit to the wrestling business, no question.”
Despite ticking most of the boxes, Benjamin could never win a World Title in WWE. Unfortunately, he was released by the company in 2023. Fans eagerly await the next move for the 48-year-old star and wonder whether he will eventually land up on his rumored destination, All Elite Wrestling.
