Everything within WWE 2K23's five DLC packs has finally been revealed to the WWE Universe. As always with the WWE 2K series, the game boasts a star-studded roster filled with current featured stars, legendary icons and promising newcomers from NXT.
However, even with the inclusion of extra Superstars within these DLC packs, upon diving into the action, many devoted fans can't help but notice notable absences from the roster that leave them puzzled. While the game undoubtedly provides an impressive array of match-ups to engage in, we cannot overlook the lack of presence in the following selection of wrestlers that should have been added to WWE 2K23.
10 The Iron Sheik
After capturing the then WWF World Heavyweight Championship back in 1983, The Iron Sheik became the first — and, thus far, only — Iranian champion in the history of WWE. His reign may have only lasted 28 days, but in losing his title, he catapulted not only his, but Hulk Hogan's career, in a match that solidified both superstars at Madison Square Garden in January 1984.
The Iron Sheik's ability in gaining negative crowd reactions by leveraging into his Iranian heritage made him a true heel wrestler that everyone loved to boo. His villainous persona would go on to achieve tag team success with Nikolai Volkoff, before retiring and becoming a pop-culture icon through his humorous presence on social media.
9 Emma
Upon her return to the squared circle, Emma stood opposite Ronda Rousey in October 2022. While she hasn't been seen as often after being drafted to the RAW brand in the 2023 WWE Draft, Emma still holds a renowned legacy that helped kickstart the Women's Revolution in WWE.
Her real-life relationship with Riddick Moss has taken centre stage on WWE's programming, and she has been used more in a managerial role to elevate his on-screen status. Hopefully, we can look forward to playing as Emma in future instalments of the 2K series, as she is a phenomenal athlete with a unique moveset.
8 William Regal
There are few wrestling legends that match the ability William Regal once had inside the ring. Having claimed the prestigious title of King of the Ring and securing the WWE Intercontinental Championship twice, among his astounding tally of 15 WWE title reigns, Regal's career has provided us with fantastic submission-based grappling for over three decades.
Currently, Regal has an important role behind the scenes, utilising his expertise to scout and train the talents of the next generation, destined to shine on WWE's developmental brand, NXT. Regal's invaluable contributions in shaping the company's future deserve Hall of Fame recognition, making it all the more astonishing that he remains absent from WWE 2K23's playable roster.
7 Bronson Reed
As a former NXT North American Champion, Bronson Reed displays incredible athleticism, setting him apart as an exceptional in-ring performer. His stature places him in the category of a 'super heavyweight'; however, his wrestling style displays remarkable versatility. Embodying both a powerhouse and high-flyer, Reed unleashes hard-hitting strikes and impactful slams to his opponents, accompanied by a surprising repertoire of springboard and aerial manoeuvers.
Recognised for his talent, Bronson Reed enjoys exposure on WWE's Main-Roster, where his on-screen persona brings authenticity to their product. Despite his continual presence, it remains surprising that he was left out from this instalment of the WWE 2K series.
6 Dusty Rhodes
2K has a consistent tradition of honouring past wrestlers by incorporating them into its games. Surprisingly, despite Dusty Rhodes' significant contributions within WWE and its developmental brand, NXT, he isn't a playable character in this instalment, despite an opportune moment for such inclusion.
At WrestleMania 38, Dusty's son, Cody, made a shocking return to WWE, engaging in a featured storyline aimed at fulfilling the narrative his late father was unable to complete: capturing the WWE Championship. Although Cody's endeavours were ultimately unsuccessful at WrestleMania 39, the considerable focus on Dusty Rhodes' remarkable career during that year presented a compelling and pertinent opportunity to commemorate his legacy within the game.
5 Gallus
You would assume that any tag team that held the NXT UK Tag Team Championships for 498 days would rightfully secure a spot in WWE 2K23. Sadly, with Gallus, that is not the case. The team, made up of Wolfgang, and real-life brothers, Joe and Mark Coffey, have ruled over NXT, elevating their status by clinching the NXT Tag Team Championships in February 2023.
There is no denying that Gallus' success in both the UK and North America serves as a testament to their remarkable talent and accomplishments as a faction. However, their absence in WWE 2K23 raises questions about the fairness of the selection process.
4 Carlito
With a resounding reception to his return at Backlash 2023, Carlito's undeniable popularity solidifies his status as a beloved WWE superstar. Having held the prestigious titles of WWE Intercontinental Champion, United States Champion, and Tag Team Champion, Carlito's impressive accomplishments illustrate his dues paid and remarkable in-ring ability, earning admiration from the WWE Universe.
Despite his absence from WWE games since SmackDown vs Raw 2010 by THQ, it is only reasonable to expect that, due to his popularity, Carlito stands a fair chance of becoming a playable character in future iterations developed by 2K.
3 Chelsea Green
Chelsea Green's impact in the WWE cannot be overlooked. Her unique charisma and thoughtfully developed character work has made her a standout on the main roster. With her partner, Sonya Deville, she has shown incredible chemistry, capturing the Women's Tag Team Championships and proving her worth as a top-tier talent.
While Chelsea Green's journey to success initially took place outside the WWE, her smooth transition to the company has been a testament to her dedication and talent. Her commitment to her in-ring persona has garnered her a passionate fan base, leading many to wonder why she hasn't been included in the popular video game series.
2 Bob Backlund
Not many wrestlers can say they've held the WWE Championship for 2135 days. Bob Backlund, however, adamantly can. As a two-time WWE Champion and Hall of Famer, Backlund went on to have a 30-year career before retiring.
Even in an era where wrestling continued to evolve, Backlund's incredible legacy remained relevant and influential. Many wrestlers have cited him as a major influence and credited him for shaping their careers. As the industry has continued to grow and adapt, Backlund's timeless values of respect and a clean-living lifestyle serve well for the future generations of talent.
1 Ric Flair
'The Nature Boy' Ric Flair commands an undisputed position in professional wrestling. With a staggering 16 World Title reigns, he stands as a legend not only within WWE but across the entire wrestling industry. His vibrant and flamboyant persona captivated the WWE Universe every time he graced the screen, leaving behind a memorable legacy.
Since his retirement, Flair's accomplishments lives on through his daughter, Charlotte, a standout force on the main roster with an impressive collection of WWE Women's Championships reigns to her name already. Considering his influence on the wrestling world, Ric Flair's absence in WWE 2K23 is extremely perplexing.