This week, WWE announced its new WWE ID program, marking a major move to enhance recruitment of independent wrestlers. The program provides independent wrestling prospects with a clear pathway to join WWE and grow their careers. The WWE ID initiative is distinct from WWE’s college athlete-focused Next In Line (NIL) program, offering indie wrestlers the opportunity to gain exposure and potentially make a leap into the WWE roster.
WWE ID Program Overview
WWE ID is a talent pipeline designed to streamline recruitment from the independent wrestling scene. By partnering with renowned wrestling schools, WWE can access and scout talent from top-tier academies. The following wrestling schools have been given WWE ID designation:
- Reality of Wrestling – Founded by Booker T, this Texas-based school has produced many top wrestlers and serves as a training ground for talent across the U.S.
- Nightmare Factory – Established by Cody Rhodes, this Atlanta-based academy is known for its hands-on training and competitive environment.
- Black and Brave Wrestling Academy – Owned by Seth Rollins, this school in Davenport, Iowa, emphasizes conditioning and technical skills to prepare wrestlers for the big leagues.
Through these schools, WWE ID offers prospects guidance, training, and potential access to WWE tryouts or contract opportunities.
Backstage Insights and Program Development
Brandon Thurston, on the Pollock & Thurston podcast, confirmed WWE ID’s rollout. While no specific recruits have been named, Thurston hinted that announcements on official signees may follow soon. Notably, wrestlers in WWE ID can continue competing outside WWE without restrictions, offering them flexibility rarely seen in major wrestling contracts.
According to PWInsider’s Mike Johnson, WWE has been exploring WWE ID’s potential for years, with Gabe Sapolsky overseeing the program’s implementation. Sapolsky, who has years of experience with independent wrestling promotions, has played a vital role in shaping WWE ID’s structure to ensure it meets the needs of both WWE and emerging indie wrestlers.
WWE ID vs. NIL Program
While WWE ID targets independent wrestlers, WWE’s NIL program, launched in 2021, focuses on scouting college athletes interested in pro wrestling. Together, WWE ID and NIL represent WWE’s two-pronged approach to talent acquisition, fostering diverse backgrounds and skill sets for WWE’s roster.
WWE ID’s Future and Its Impact on Talent Development
The WWE ID program will also allow WWE’s current developmental talent to train at designated wrestling schools to broaden their skillsets. For WWE, this means increased opportunities to scout rising stars while also refining their current developmental roster.
For indie wrestlers, WWE ID provides the chance to gain WWE’s attention while maintaining control over their careers. And with prominent schools like Reality of Wrestling, Nightmare Factory, and Black and Brave Wrestling Academy on board, prospects have high-caliber resources to propel them toward success.