Why Sheamus Is Currently the Top Star on Smackdown

Sheamus seems to have breathed new life into his career recently.

Only a few months ago, he had won King of the Ring and went on a losing streak that culminated in him being taken out by a returned Triple H.

It seemed like Sheamus couldn't get any lower than he already was, but finally, things started to change.

He moved from RAW to Smackdown, and there, he changed from a heel to a babyface.

Being on the WWE's B show away from all of the established stars was the first important move.

Turning face also helped, as Smackdown had been a heel-heavy show and only had Randy Orton has a top face to beat them. By turning face, Sheamus had much less competition.

It has led to him winning most of his matches in impressive fashion. Even at Survivor Series, Sheamus was eliminated by DQ instead of actually being beaten.

Considering that even Orton was eliminated by Wade Barrett, it says something that the WWE didn't have the same happen to Sheamus.

In fact, if Sin Cara had not botched a move and damaged his leg, Sheamus would have been the only wrestler to be removed from the match without being pinned.

Even on the Smackdown leading up to Survivor Series, Sheamus was teamed up with Randy Orton to face Wade Barrett and Cody Rhodes.  At the end of the match it was Sheamus in the ring getting the last move in on Barrett with Orton on the sidelines cheering him on.  That moment was telling and showed exactly where he stands on Smackdown.

Sheamus is also something new. Not only is his character new, but it is one that is completely unique in the WWE. Most of the performers are tan with black or brown short-cropped hair.

In contrast, Sheamus is a spiky redheaded, pasty giant. He is also a fun-loving Irishman who seems to have taken to the role well.

If he works at it and doesn't do anything to violate the wellness policy or get injured, he might be able to turn into one of the biggest stars in the WWE. He just needs to keep growing his character and winning.

If he keeps it up, fans just might see a new champion by the end of the year.