Former WWE Superstar Batista has said he is surprised Kofi Kingston wasn't in the main event scene years ago, in an interview with Pro Wrestling Sheet.

Kingston, the reigning WWE Champion captured the title at WrestleMania 35 this year, after being a popular staple of the company's mid-card for years.

Speaking to PWS, Batista said how the Ghanian Champion deserves everything he has received, and is surprised it didn't come sooner.

He said: "With all the love he is getting now, he deserved that many years ago, when I was there.

"He was something special in FCW. They got the bright idea so many years later. The guy is money, he is a star."

Kofi is set to defend his championship at the upcoming WWE Stomping Grounds pay per view on June 23, against Dolph Ziggler in a Steel Cage match.