The introduction of WWE Independent Development, also known as WWE ID, has been one of the most exciting things happening in professional wrestling this year. This program serves as a direct line from independent wrestling promotions to WWE, providing a clear pathway for independent wrestlers to potentially have a career in WWE. The program aims to support independent wrestling prospects and schools with world-class training, development, and mentorship, ultimately raising the profile of and strengthening the independent wrestling ecosystem.
WWE ID has already introduced four professional wrestlers on the WWE ID X account: Zayda Steel, Bryce Donovan, Cappuccino Jones, and Jack Summit. These wrestlers have been scouted from various independent wrestling promotions and have been welcomed into the WWE ID program. More recently, additional wrestlers were introduced on a Friday Night SmackDown episode. William Regal went behind the scenes to inform Marcus Mathers and Sam Hardway Holloway that they were now a part of WWE ID, noting their hard work on the independents and inviting them to join the program.
Marcus Mathers, scouted from Game Changer Wrestling, and Sam Hardway Holloway, scouted from International Wrestling Cartel, were the two wrestlers named on SmackDown. Mathers has been seen on AEW Rampage, PROGRESS Wrestling, Beyond Wrestling, and more, while Holloway has appeared with Beyond Wrestling, Freelance Wrestling, and others. Additionally, two other wrestlers were announced earlier in the day on WWE ID’s X account: Zara Zakher, also known as “The Petite Powerhouse,” and Sean Legacy. Both wrestlers have been scouted from different independent wrestling promotions and have competed in various wrestling events.
WWE ID aims to provide the most prominent independent wrestling schools in the US with the ‘WWE ID’ official designation, guiding new trainees and existing talent at these select institutions with enhanced developmental opportunities. This program will identify top independent wrestling prospects with an official ‘WWE ID Prospect’ designation and support their developmental journey. Fans will have the opportunity to follow the paths of these standout prospects on the independent wrestling scene through curated, behind-the-scenes content, highlights, and matches showcased across WWE’s social platforms.
The introduction of WWE ID underscores WWE’s commitment to supporting and developing independent wrestling talent, showcasing their journey from independent promotions to potentially joining WWE. As the program continues to grow and expand, more independent wrestlers may have the opportunity to join WWE and pursue their dreams in professional wrestling. WWE ID is set to enhance the independent wrestling ecosystem by providing world-class training, mentorship, and developmental opportunities for aspiring wrestlers looking to make an impact in the industry.
For the latest WWE and professional wrestling news, fans can stay tuned to Newsweek Sports for updates on WWE Independent Development and other exciting developments in the world of professional wrestling. With WWE ID paving the way for independent wrestlers to potentially have a career in WWE, the future of professional wrestling looks promising as new talent emerges and makes their mark in the industry.
