The latest rankings from ESPN reveal the top 30 professional wrestlers under the age of 30 for 2025, with Dominik Mysterio maintaining his position as the number one wrestler for the second consecutive year. This year’s list, which includes stars from various promotions such as WWE, AEW, NJPW, and CMLL, highlights the dynamic talent pool in professional wrestling, showcasing how several wrestlers have emerged, while others have fallen or held steady.
A total of seven wrestlers, including Toni Storm and Logan Paul, missed the cutoff for this year’s list, opening avenues for fresh faces and new contenders. The rankings are determined by analyzing factors such as drawing power, popularity, in-ring skills, roster positioning, and notable accomplishments, including championship titles and tournament victories. Analysts Andreas Hale, Greg Wyshynski, Sean Coyle, Sachin Chandan, and Arda Ocal provided insights into the rankings.
Dominik Mysterio’s Continued Dominance
At just 28 years old, Dominik Mysterio has carved out his identity in the wrestling world, stepping out from the shadow of his father, Rey Mysterio. His exceptional in-ring skills and charismatic mic work kept him in the top spot. Throughout 2025, he entertained audiences with a persona that has evolved into a “bad guy” role, drawing significant crowd reactions. He simultaneously held the WWE Intercontinental and AAA Mega Championship titles this year, although he lost the Intercontinental Championship to John Cena on November 10 during an episode of “Raw.” Dominik’s ability to engage audiences, coupled with his ongoing storyline involving his father and the late Eddie Guerrero, positions him as a foundational star for WWE’s future.
Rising Stars and Significant Moves
Another noteworthy performer is Kyle Fletcher, aged 26, who made significant strides this year after transitioning to a singles wrestler due to an injury to his tag team partner. His victory over Dustin Rhodes in a street fight solidified his status as the AEW TNT Champion. Fletcher’s versatility and improved promo skills have positioned him as a main event contender.
The women’s division also saw remarkable performances, particularly from Rhea Ripley. At 29, she has already achieved a Hall of Fame-worthy career, holding three women’s world championships and being celebrated as ESPN’s 2023 Women’s Wrestler of the Year. Her championship celebrations, including one with The Undertaker, reflect her prominence in WWE.
In the case of MJF, also 29, he has solidified his reputation as a unique performer, engaging in captivating storylines that include winning a Casino Gauntlet Match and feuding with Hangman Adam Page. MJF’s ability to blend in-ring prowess with compelling narratives has made him a standout star.
The year also saw Chase Stratton at 26 accumulate an impressive 24 wins before losing her WWE Women’s Championship to Jade Cargill. Her journey reflects the fierce competition and the potential for future growth within WWE’s women’s division.
Meanwhile, Blake Monroe, aged 27, transitioned from AEW to NXT, where she secured the NXT Women’s North American Championship. Her charismatic heel persona and wrestling skills indicate that she is a name to watch in the coming years.
A Glimpse Ahead
As the wrestling landscape continues to evolve, this year’s rankings underscore the depth and talent available under the age of 30. The mix of established stars and emerging talent reflects a promising future for the sport. The rankings not only celebrate current achievements but also hint at the potential trajectories of these athletes as they navigate their careers in a highly competitive environment.
With the rankings set, all eyes will be on these wrestlers as they enter 2026, eager to see who will rise to the top next and how the dynamics of professional wrestling will continue to unfold.
