Internal Intention Behind Independent School Affiliation With New WWE ID Program

WWE recently unveiled the WWE ID program, a new initiative to secure deals with independent wrestlers for potential future roles in the company. The program’s rollout is raising questions, with details still emerging on the company’s strategy and long-term plans.

According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, WWE is focusing on early recruitment for indie talent they believe shows promise. Previously, WWE’s approach was to invite select talent for tryouts and assess whether to sign them to full-time deals. Now, under the WWE ID program, promising wrestlers will be offered deals early in their careers, similar to the company’s NIL deals for college athletes. These deals provide a small financial incentive and establish a working relationship with WWE, while the wrestlers continue their training and independent appearances.

The change marks a significant shift, as WWE previously avoided contracts that allowed talent to work independently. Under the new structure, wrestlers signed to these WWE ID deals can continue to wrestle independently, although WWE retains the right of first refusal if these wrestlers receive offers from other major promotions like AEW, New Japan, or TNA. If WWE sees the value in these individuals, they can secure them with a full-time contract.

The program is not limited to a specific set of wrestling schools, but WWE recommends affiliated training centers for those without an established base. This network aims to streamline training and development, potentially creating a pipeline of talent better suited to WWE’s system and style.

Several wrestlers have already been signed through the WWE ID program. Zayda Steel, known for her recent work with Marigold, was recruited, though she’s still developing her in-ring skills. Bryce Donovan, an eight-year veteran trained by Brian Myers and Pat Buck, also joined the roster. Cappucchino Jones, who has experience on AEW’s Dynamite and ROH, was announced as well.

More announcements are expected soon as WWE continues building this new talent pool. The WWE ID program may reshape the independent scene by establishing a hybrid relationship that allows talent to grow within WWE’s orbit without a full commitment, signaling a new era in how the company develops and retains emerging stars.

This program is still in its infancy, and fans haven’t even seen any of its signees make their mark in WWE yet. Only time will tell how this new system will be viewed in retrospect, but it is certainly an exciting addition to the WWE machine.