Big news, folks! WWE has set its sights on indie wrestling rings across America like a kid in a candy store—or a billionaire in a gold-plated candy store, if you will. Last week, the WWE ID program, the new “farm-to-table” wrestling initiative, plucked three shiny new prospects from their respective promotions.
Let’s break it down:
From Worcester With Love
At Beyond Wrestling’s Wrestling Open event in scenic Worcester, Massachusetts (home of world-class clam chowder and now developmental contracts), Aaron Rourke snagged a WWE ID deal. Rourke, who has six years of experience, gave Rex Lawless a wrestling clinic before signing the dotted line. Rourke is no stranger to the squared circle, having honed his craft at Create-A-Pro Wrestling and making stops at Limitless and Chaotic Wrestling. Six years, countless bumps, and now a ticket to the big leagues.
Not to be outdone, Brad Baylor joined the WWE ID ranks after he and Ricky Smokes captured the Wrestling Open Tag Team Championships. In a bold move, Baylor said, “Hold my protein shake,” and signed his WWE ID contract while still celebrating his title win. Baylor’s résumé includes guest appearances at Pennsylvania Premiere Wrestling and Northeast Wrestling, but now he’s leveling up.
Southern Charms
Down in Greensboro, North Carolina, at Fire Star Pro Wrestling’s Afterburn event, the reigning FSW Champion Jackson Drake added his name to the WWE ID lineup. Drake’s no rookie when it comes to big stages, having danced with the National Wrestling Alliance, Deadlock Pro, AML, and even had a cameo on AEW Rampage. This guy doesn’t just wrestle; he main events wherever he goes. WWE must have thought, “Why not? Let’s add a champion to our collection.”
Breaking News at Breaking Point
If this week weren’t already overflowing with talent signings, Chaotic Wrestling has promised another WWE ID reveal during their Breaking Point event tonight. Who’s next? Is it you? (It’s probably not you.)