WWE Extreme Rules 2012: 5 Potential Challengers for Santino Marella's US Title

Here we are just moments from witnessing The Miz succumb to "The Cobra." Now, we're left to wonder who could be next in line for Santino Marella's U.S. Title.

As we all know, the WWE has treated their midcard titles as mere trinkets of late.

Long gone are the days of midcard feuds. In fact, the last time we really witnessed a great midcard title feud was in 2009. Since then, the WWE has given long reigns with no substance to several stars.

Sadly, Cody Rhodes just came off a seven-and-a-half month Intercontinental Championship reign, of which he only defended the title five times.

Now we look to Santino, as he has a real chance to make the midcard scene special once again—mostly, because he has managed to defend his U.S. Title at least once a month since acquiring it in March. Now, if only the WWE can find a suitable opponent for him to feud with to solidify his legacy.

Here are five people I feel would be great challengers for the U.S. Title.

Cody Rhodes

If Rhodes wins his match tonight, it would be great to see a "Champion vs. Champion" match.

However, if Rhodes loses, he could easily jump brands and make himself a part of the U.S. Title picture. This feud could be great considering both men have great reputations in the ring and great mic work.

Not to mention, it could legitimize Santino, especially if it lasts for a few months.

Lord Tensai

Tensai is in dire need of a feud, and right now, should not be considered a main-eventer.

However, he's a great midcard heel, and a solid feud could propel him to the main-event scene—especially, if he's given some time on the mic and matches that aren't all squashes.

Wade Barrett

Let's face it, Barrett is almost there.

He has the look and can go at it in the ring and on the mic. Yet, the WWE hasn't given him the push he sorely deserves.

Don't get me wrong. I am not saying a match against Marella is like a main-event push.

However, another solo title run, with a solid feud could get him in WWE's good graces.

Zack Ryder

Unfortunately, Ryder's star is falling fast and a feud for a midcard title that he once held could help him stay in the limelight.

Ultimately, Ryder would have to change up his gimmick a bit and possibly go back to being a heel.

At the very least, this feud would add the E in WWE.

Brodus Clay

Clay has been nothing less than a star since his return.

However, he has the same issue that Lord Tensai has, fans can't take him seriously if he continues to squash his opponents.

Ideally, he could get into a feud with Marella; that would end in neither turning heel and potentially win the gold.

This would allow the WWE to move on from Marella's reign and give "The Funkasaurus" some much-needed respect.