On October 29, the Stamford-based promotion announced the launch of WWE ID. Since the Sports Entertainment juggernaut made this announcement on X (formerly Twitter), wrestling fans have been excited to know what the new program is all about.
As per a statement released on the promotion's website, the 'ID' in WWE ID stands for Independent Development. Per the site, this program will provide upcoming independent wrestlers with a chance to build a career as an in-ring performer.
The site also stated that the WWE ID program has been constructed to provide support to independent wrestling schools and promotions by giving access to top-tier training and mentorship. Also, under the program, new trainees and existing talent at select institutions will get enhanced developmental opportunities.
Here is a list of schools that will be provided the WWE ID designation:
- Booker T’s Reality of Wrestling (Houston)
- Cody Rhodes’ Nightmare Factory (Atlanta)
- Seth Rollins’ Black and Brave Academy (Davenport, Iowa)
- Elite Pro Wrestling Training Center (Concord, N.H.)
- KnokX Pro Academy (Los Angeles)
Last but not least, the Stamford-based promotion will identify top independent wrestling prospects with an official WWE ID ''prospect'' designation and will provide them with perks like financial opportunity, best-in-class ring training, mentorship, access to world-class facilities, etc.
What did Triple H say about WWE ID?
Overall, based on the information given on the promotion's website, it seems WWE Independent Development will be a one-of-a-kind opportunity for independent wrestlers to make a career in the TKO-owned promotion. The program is aimed at nurturing new talents, which is again beneficial for the industry.
In the statement released on the company's website, Chief Content Officer Triple H spoke about the program. The Game mentioned what the promotion aimed to do through this program and also spoke about his vision for the independent wrestling ecosystem.
The King of Kings said:
“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."
In the last few years, WWE has taken many steps to grow talent. In 2021, the promotion launched the NIL program, which aims at providing a clear pathway from college athletics to the Sports Entertainment juggernaut through collaborative partnerships with athletes from colleges spanning various athletic backgrounds.
It will be interesting to see the kind of talent WWE is able to spot and groom with its new program. Further information about it can be found on WWE Recruit.