Independent Wrestling Promoters Worried New WWE ID Programme Could Lead To NXT UK Situation

Although the response on social media about the launch of WWE's new 'WWE ID' programme has been mostly positive, not everyone is happy about the new initiative.

Mike Johnson of PWInsider reported that a few independent wrestling promoters they have spoken to are "already worried" that WWE ID could end up being the United States equivalent of WWE NXT UK. There are particular fears that WWE will sign up a whole host of talents and then independent promotions will have issues booking WWE-contracted wrestlers to lose, or WWE could pull talents from shows at a moment's notice.

WWE launched NXT UK during the British independent wrestling boom in 2016. The brand shuttered in 2022, with WWE announcing at the time they planned to launch NXT Europe. Those plans have never come to fruition.

WWE ID is designed to provide a pathway for independent wrestlers to sign with WWE and several independent wrestling schools have been given 'WWE ID' designation, include those owned by Booker T, Seth Rollins, Cody Rhodes, and Rikishi.

Independent wrestlers will also be designated as a WWE ID 'prospect' and be provided with financial opportunities, as well as training and mentorship. The plan is for WWE to feature those talents across the company's social media platforms.