WWE has announced an exciting expansion in its developmental efforts with the launch of a new program called WWE ID, which stands for WWE Independent Development. This initiative is designed to provide a pathway for independent wrestlers to potentially join WWE.
“WWE ID is the latest in our efforts to identify and support the journey of up-and-coming wrestlers, in turn raising the profile of and strengthening the independent wrestling ecosystem,” said WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque in the official press release.
More on WWE ID
The WWE ID program aims to designate prominent independent wrestling schools, enhancing developmental opportunities for both new trainees and existing talent. This innovative approach offers unprecedented financial assistance to independent wrestling schools, further solidifying WWE's commitment to the broader wrestling community.
Under Triple H's leadership, WWE has broadened its partnerships beyond its own universe, establishing agreements with organizations like TNA and Pro Wrestling NOAH. Additionally, WWE has acknowledged Superstars' previous achievements in other promotions through on-air commentary by figures such as Michael Cole.
However, questions remain regarding the specifics of these new agreements, particularly concerning exclusivity and signing rights for designated prospects, which could limit their career options. There's also speculation about whether these prominent independent wrestling schools will become extensions of the WWE brand.
The first five independent wrestling schools to receive the WWE ID designation include:
Booker T’s Reality of Wrestling (Houston, TX)
Cody Rhodes’ Nightmare Factory (Atlanta, GA)
Seth Rollins’ Black and Brave Academy (Davenport, IA)
Elite Pro Wrestling Training Academy (Concord, NH)
KnokX Pro Academy (Los Angeles, CA)
In addition to designating these schools, WWE ID will identify top independent wrestling prospects, providing them with financial support, training, mentorship, and access to facilities. WWE plans to highlight these prospects and their development journeys on its social media platforms.
Triple H expressed his enthusiasm for the program, stating:
“The level of talent on the independent scene is incredible. They’re grinding away to make their dream a reality, and I’m excited for WWE to be on the forefront of supporting their journeys.
“@WWEID is here to help identify, support and build the next generation of WWE Superstars.”
The WWE ID program follows the launch of WWE’s NIL initiative in 2021, reinforcing WWE's commitment to supporting independent wrestling prospects and schools with world-class training, development, and mentorship.
