WWE has announced its latest class of signees for their Next in Line (NIL) program, which aims to provide college athletes with opportunities in the world of professional wrestling. The program, which was launched in December 2021, allows these athletes to explore a career in sports entertainment while continuing their collegiate pursuits.
Since the acquisition of WWE by TKO Group Holdings and its merger with UFC, there has been speculation about potential changes in the company’s strategies. However, the announcement of this new class of signees indicates that the ownership change has not affected the NIL program.
The press release from WWE highlights the inclusion of 14 college athletes in the program, including two highly ranked wrestlers, Lucas Davison from the University of Michigan and Stephen Buchanan from the University of Oklahoma. Other notable signees include Bayley Humphrey, the first acrobatics athlete; Adam Berghorst, the first baseball player; and Slane Glover, the first male cheerleader.
This diverse class of athletes represents 14 different universities and ten NCAA conferences, showcasing the program’s commitment to recruiting talent from various athletic backgrounds.
Since its inception in December 2021, WWE’s Next in Line program has signed a total of 60 college athletes. Seven of these athletes have gone on to sign full-time developmental contracts with WWE and train at the prestigious WWE Performance Center in Orlando.
The program not only provides these athletes with access to state-of-the-art training facilities but also offers resources across the organization, including brand building, media training, live event promotion, creative writing, and community relations. This comprehensive approach ensures that the athletes receive a well-rounded development experience during their time in the program.
Upon completion of the NIL program, athletes may have the exclusive opportunity to be offered a WWE contract, opening doors to a potential career as a professional wrestler.
One of the notable aspects of the program is the impressive social media following that the athletes bring with them. With a combined following of over 12 million on TikTok and nearly five million on Instagram, these athletes have the potential to further expand WWE’s already substantial fanbase on these platforms.
For more information about WWE’s Next in Line program and the latest class of signees, visit the official website at wwerecruit.com.
Source: Cageside Seats