Hikuleo Reportedly Set to Debut on WWE SmackDown, Could Join Faction

Best known for his time in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) as a member of the Bullet Club, Hikuleo’s arrival could have major implications for WWE’s ongoing Bloodline storyline. As a member of the extended Anoa’i family, Hikuleo brings both name value and in-ring credibility. His NJPW résumé includes reigns as both IWGP and STRONG Tag Team Champion. That said, the casual WWE fan may not know who he is, so a name change and a backstory are likely expected to accompany his debut.

Will Hikuleo Join Up With Solo Sikoa?

PWInsider notes there’s growing speculation that Hikuleo could debut as part of Solo Sikoa’s new faction, which recently added JC Mateo (Jeff Cobb) and split from Jacob Fatu. The group saw a major shakeup at Money in the Bank, and Sikoa will need reinforcements as he tries to combat the imminent feud with the United States Champion. Hikuleo gives Sikoa another enforcer, and if the Tongas also return (Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa), their faction becomes one of the more formidable groups on the blue brand.

The real question becomes whether Jacob Fatu goes up against Solo’s new crew on his own? He's one of WWE's biggest and baddest, but even he would have trouble against a faction of this size.

One thing’s for sure: Hikuleo’s arrival signals another major chapter in WWE’s evolving Samoan dynasty storyline. If reports of his debut are accurate, Friday's SmackDown may have become a must-watch show.