He's Got Spirit

Dolph signing autographs at WWE Axxess (2010)

Dolph Ziggler is making the most of the new year.  Just five years ago he was kicking and jumping and cheering as a member of the Spirit Squad.  Today, he's the number 1 contender to the World Heavyweight championship.

On the same night he lost the Intercontinental title to Kofi Kingston, Dolph won a fatal four way to become Edge's next opponent.

It's an interesting choice.  But a good one I think.  The WWE is in desperate need of fresh blood in the main event, especially on Smackdown!  I personally would have gone with Drew McIntyre if they were looking for a heel to go head to head with Edge.  But I support Dolph.  I think he's come a long way.

Dolph heading to the ring at Wrestlemania 26

His recent matches with Daniel Bryan, Kaval, and John Cena have been good.  He's proving he's more than just a former member of the Spirit Squad.  Who thought he'd be the one still around and now in the World title picture?  I always thought Kenny had the most potential...

My guess is just like John Morrison, Dolph will not be winning the gold belt anytime soon.  While it's good that we're getting fresh world title matches, these recently elevated guys still have a long way to go before the belt goes around their waist.  I hope they don't just hot shot this one like they did the Miz and Morrison last week on Raw.  They could actually do a little buildup here to the Royal Rumble.

Dolph, McIntrye, Cody Rhodes, and Alberto Del Rio are the four heels I see making an impact (pardon the expression) on Smackdown! this year.  Del Rio seems to be the one who's getting a lot of buzz, so don't be surprised to see him in the title hunt or wearing the belt by SummerSlam.

I think now that the E is pushing some guys they haven't before they need to work on developing them and keeping them on the top of the card.  (Insert Jack Swagger memory here)