Cody Rhodes delivered an unofficial farewell to Raw, slowly moving away from his role as brand leader.

Ahead of the WWE draft, it seems likely The American Nightmare will focus on SmackDown going forward with AJ Styles or LA Knight next stepping up to him.

This leaves a top babyface spot on the red brand. While Rhodes focused on Jey Uso and his upcoming challenge to Damian Priest, another man more clearly reached for the mantle.

Sami Zayn immediately claimed the top babyface role with the best entrance of 2024, heading directly from the door of the arena through the crowd to the ring.

WWE @WWE

WELCOME HOME, SAMI!<a href="">@Montreal</a> welcomed WWE Intercontinental Champion <a href="">@SamiZayn</a> home at <a href="">@CentreBell</a> with a gigantic ovation for an unforgettable entrance!<a href="">#WWERaw</a> <a href="">

He followed up with a fantastic match with Chad Gable, with the two competitors establishing it as a battle that needs to happen again on another major stage.

While Damian Priest may hold the top title on the red brand, he is being overshadowed by the intercontinental champion.

Zayn is carrying the legacy of the IC title forward after the honor Gunther bestowed upon it. More importantly, the new champion is carrying on his own legacy, which was built from his work with The Bloodline in 2022.

Crowds love him, and he elevates every angle he works. Zayn should be considered the face of Raw as long as he and Rhodes work on opposite brands.