The Shortest Male WWE Superstars Currently on the Roster
The WWE has long been home to larger-than-life athletes, with towering figures like Andre the Giant, Big Show, and Kane dominating the landscape. However, history has shown that shorter wrestlers can also rise to prominence, proving that size isn’t the only factor in success. Superstars like Rey Mysterio, Bryan Danielson, and Johnny Gargano have defied the odds, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
In WWE today, there are several male wrestlers who may not stand out for their height but shine in other aspects of their game, whether through exceptional in-ring ability, charismatic promos, or pure resilience. Here’s a look at the shortest male wrestlers currently competing in WWE and how they continue to make their presence felt.
Pete Dunne (5’10”)
Previously known as “Butch” under Vince McMahon’s creative direction, Pete Dunne was initially booked as a small, aggressive brawler with an explosive temper. However, once Triple H reinstated his original persona, Dunne’s credibility skyrocketed. While he remains in the mid-card, he’s a prime example of how booking can impact a wrestler’s standing, regardless of height.
Otis (5’10”)
Despite his bulky, powerhouse frame, Otis is deceptively shorter than many might expect. Standing at 5’10”, he brings an incredible mix of strength and humor to WWE television. His ongoing feuds and tag team dynamics have kept him relevant, proving that size is more than just height—it’s about presence.
Angel (5’9″)
Formerly known as Angel Garza, this charismatic performer has struggled to transition his NXT success to the main roster. While his 5’9” height might make him seem undersized compared to WWE’s heavyweights, his skills and natural charm make him a standout performer waiting for his breakout moment.
Noam Dar (5’9″)
A veteran of the cruiserweight division, Noam Dar has mostly found success in NXT UK and the Heritage Cup scene. His smaller stature has kept him confined to WWE’s developmental brand, but his technical abilities remain some of the best in the business.
Ilja Dragunov (5’9″)
A force to be reckoned with, Ilja Dragunov may stand at only 5’9”, but his in-ring intensity makes him appear much larger. His brutal matches against larger opponents have proven that height doesn’t dictate toughness. Unfortunately, an injury has sidelined him, halting his growing momentum on the main roster.
Andrade (5’9″)
Since returning to WWE, Andrade has bulked up significantly, making it hard to believe he’s only 5’9″. His skills are undeniable, but his placement in WWE’s new Speed Division has kept him from reaching the heights many fans expected.
Wes Lee (5’9″)
A standout in NXT, Wes Lee has defied expectations with his aerial prowess. Though sidelined with an injury, his eventual return will likely see him return to the top of NXT’s landscape and, potentially, transition to the main roster.
Johnny Gargano (5’9″)
Once the ultimate underdog in NXT, Gargano has struggled to find his footing on the main roster. However, his recent reunion with Tommaso Ciampa in DIY has revitalized his career, culminating in two reigns as WWE Tag Team Champions.
Chad Gable (5’8″)
Gable’s journey has been riddled with highs and lows, including a forgettable run as “Shorty G.” Despite this, his in-ring skills have earned him consistent TV time, and while he fell short in his Intercontinental Championship pursuits, he remains one of WWE’s most respected competitors.
Axiom (5’8″)
Previously known as A-Kid, Axiom’s high-flying style and masked persona have made him a fan favorite in NXT. As he continues to receive main roster opportunities, his future in WWE looks promising.
Dragon Lee (5’7.5″)
Often hailed as the next Rey Mysterio, Dragon Lee has dazzled audiences with his lucha-libre style. Despite his potential, his role in the LWO has not given him the spotlight many expected.
Tyler Bate (5’7″)
The first-ever NXT UK Champion, Bate’s transition to the main roster has been rocky, especially after an injury derailed his tag team aspirations. However, his in-ring skills make him a valuable asset to WWE’s growing roster.
Cruz Del Toro & Joaquin Wilde (5’7″)
These two high-flyers form part of the LWO’s tag team division, bringing exciting action to WWE television. However, they’ve struggled to break out from the shadow of their legendary mentor, Rey Mysterio.
Akira Tozawa (5’7″)
Once a standout in the Cruiserweight Classic, Tozawa has mostly been used as comedic relief in WWE. However, his involvement with the Alpha Academy has brought him more screen time and a renewed fan following.
Rey Mysterio (5’6″)
The undisputed king of undersized wrestlers, Rey Mysterio has built a Hall of Fame-worthy career despite standing at only 5’6″. Even at this stage of his career, he remains an active and vital part of WWE’s roster
Final Thoughts
While height has often been a defining factor in WWE, these shorter superstars have proven that talent, charisma, and determination matter just as much. Whether through high-flying action, technical prowess, or sheer grit, they continue to leave a mark on the industry, defying expectations and redefining what it means to be a WWE Superstar.
