Seven Names Who Could Replace Nick Aldis as WWE SmackDown General Manager

Nick Aldis has been the face of WWE SmackDown’s authority structure since joining the company in 2023, and three years into the role he remains one of the more credible on-screen executives in the business. But with questions mounting about whether Aldis might eventually return to in-ring competition, attention is turning to who could step into that general manager seat if and when the time comes.

The most natural internal candidate is Adam Pearce, who has held the Raw GM role alongside Aldis for years and has even managed both brands simultaneously in the past. His familiarity with the SmackDown roster and proven track record as an authority figure make him the safest transition option WWE has available.

Also in the conversation is Robert Stone, who stepped up to lead NXT after Ava’s departure and has impressed in the role. His work on the developmental brand has put him on the radar for a potential main-roster promotion.

Other names being discussed include Wade Barrett, currently one-half of SmackDown’s commentary team and a five-time Intercontinental Champion, whose personality and history with the show make him a compelling fit. The Miz, long associated with authority figures and corporate wrestling culture, is another option that would feel organic given his character’s history.

On the more unexpected side, Danhausen — who made a memorable debut at Elimination Chamber 2026 emerging from a mystery crate — has quickly become one of WWE’s more popular acts and could be handed a unique role to keep him prominent without necessarily being in the ring.

AJ Styles, whose in-ring career came to an end at Royal Rumble 2026 following a loss to GUNTHER, re-signed with WWE in 2026 in an ambassador, recruiter, and coach capacity after being inducted into the 2026 Hall of Fame. His credibility and communication skills make him a legitimate dark horse for a GM-type position down the line. JBL, who currently calls AAA programming in English, rounds out the group — his deep ties to SmackDown’s history as both a top star and commentator on the blue brand would make a return in an authority role a full-circle moment.

Aldis hasn’t indicated publicly that he’s stepping away anytime soon, but WWE clearly has options if the situation changes.