Kevin Nash, a WWE Hall of Famer and founding member of the legendary nWo faction, recently shared his perspective on why LA Knight—one of WWE’s most charismatic and popular stars—has yet to secure a climb to the very top of WWE’s card. Despite LA Knight’s undeniable crowd appeal and solid in-ring work, Nash believes there’s a core issue holding the star back from reaching main event status.
Kevin Nash’s Take On LA Knight’s WWE Challenges
On a recent episode of his “Kliq This” podcast, Nash revisited his thoughts on LA Knight, a performer he once criticized for allegedly emulating iconic WWE legends such as The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. Nash admitted that while Knight’s act never fully resonated with him, he recognizes the talent and effort Knight brings to WWE programming. However, Nash maintains that Knight’s current character and delivery “just don’t work” in the modern WWE landscape, contributing to the star’s struggle to break through top-tier storylines[2].
Nash clearly sees value in Knight’s ring work and fan connection, stating, *“He’s a f**ing solid hand. The people like him. He would definitely be on my list of guys to give a World Title run to.” He further praised Knight’s conditioning and in-ring reliability, emphasizing that the veteran superstar is “always in really good shape” and delivers consistently professional performances[1][3].
Why Is LA Knight Still Stuck Mid-Card?
Despite winning the United States Championship twice and participating in high-profile matches—such as consecutive Money in the Bank ladder bouts where he came up short—Knight has struggled to ascend beyond the mid-card to the world title scene. Nash’s analysis centers on the issue that Knight’s persona lacks a distinctive, compelling originality that can elevate him past being a crowd favorite to a main event player.
According to sources close to WWE creative, the company admires Knight’s natural mic skills and charisma but is hesitant to give him a full main event push because his character’s tone remains too reminiscent of legends rather than forging a uniquely modern superstar identity. One backstage insider noted, “LA Knight is immensely talented, but the creative team feels he hasn’t found a fresh voice that distinguishes him in the crowded WWE landscape. That’s the missing ingredient for a World Title run.”
From Harsh Criticism To Respectful Recognition
Kevin Nash’s evolution from a harsh critic to an admirer who hopes to see Knight reach the pinnacle of WWE is notable. Earlier in his commentary history, Nash openly criticized Knight for appearing as a “copycat” of WWE’s biggest icons[2]. But as Knight’s popularity surged—especially after turning face in 2023 and sharing the ring with heavyweights like John Cena and Roman Reigns—Nash softened his stance.
In June 2025, Nash confirmed on his podcast that while his critique of Knight’s character still stands, he refuses to be the “bitter old guy.” He respects that Knight has earned fan support, works hard, and consistently maintains quality in the ring. Nash stated, *“I don’t wanna f**ing badmouth the guy. He worked his ass off and got over, so I have to respect that.” That acceptance came alongside a suggestion that WWE should seriously consider giving Knight a World Championship run before his career ends[1][5].
The Industry’s Perspective On LA Knight’s Future
Many wrestling fans and insiders alike agree with Nash that LA Knight is overdue for a top-tier push. His ability to connect with live audiences, draw strong reactions on social media, and hold his own in matches with established stars highlights his untapped potential.
WWE insiders suggest that a reinvention of Knight’s character or a fresh creative direction could unlock that potential. One source commented, “It’s not about Knight’s talent—he has plenty. The question is how WWE repositions him to feel like a main event threat rather than just a fan favorite with echoes of past legends. If they crack that code, he’s got a bright future ahead.”
No Bad Blood Between Nash and Knight
Despite their past public disagreements, Kevin Nash clarifies that there is no ill will between him and LA Knight. In December 2024, Nash discussed a backstage meeting with Knight at a SummerSlam event, emphasizing a mutual respect despite their previous on-record criticisms[4]. Nash’s transparent comments reveal a professional acknowledgment of Knight’s work ethic and standing within WWE.
Conclusion: The Missing Piece For LA Knight’s WWE Ascension
Kevin Nash’s insights underline a common theme in professional wrestling: sheer talent and audience approval do not always translate immediately into main event status. For LA Knight, the challenge lies in evolving his character beyond homage to WWE legends and convincing WWE creative that his persona can carry the company’s flagship storylines.
According to insiders and Nash alike, the ingredients are there—work ethic, fan support, in-ring proficiency—but WWE must identify the right moment and creative vision to transform LA Knight into a true World Champion contender. Until then, Knight’s impressive climb may continue, just shy of the summit he clearly seems destined for.