How to Become a WWE Wrestler?
The glitz, the glam, and the roaring crowd—wrestling on the WWE stage can seem like the ultimate dream. Many fans idolize superstars like The Rock, John Cena, or Ronda Rousey, but few realize the long road of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifice that lies ahead. Our article explores on the topic how to become a WWE wrestler, this step-by-step guide will help you carve a path toward your goal.
How to Become a WWE Wrestler? Step-by-Step Guide
Here are few things to consider, if you want to become a WWE wrestler.
1. Start Early
To maximize your chances of success, it’s best to start training as early as possible. Many wrestlers begin their athletic journey in high school sports like wrestling, football, or gymnastics, which help build a solid foundation of strength, agility, and endurance.
Key Tip: Join a local wrestling club or amateur wrestling league to develop technical wrestling skills and compete in local matches.
2. Stay in Top Physical Condition
Source : Fanatic Wrestling
Professional wrestling demands physical fitness. WWE superstars must be strong, agile, and highly resilient to endure the rigors of matches that often last 15-30 minutes or more. Staying in top shape also helps prevent injuries in such a high-impact sport.
Training Regimen
- Strength Training: Focus on compound exercises like deadlifts, squats, and bench presses to build power.
- Cardio: Incorporate high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and endurance exercises to improve stamina.
- Flexibility: Regular stretching and yoga can help increase your flexibility, which is crucial for avoiding injuries and performing complex moves.
Nutrition: Eat a balanced, protein-rich diet that supports muscle growth and recovery. Wrestlers often have high-calorie diets due to their intensive training schedule, but it’s important to focus on nutrient-dense foods.
3. Find a Good Wrestling School
To get the skills and exposure needed for a WWE career, it’s essential to attend a professional wrestling school. These schools are run by experienced wrestlers who offer mentorship and insider knowledge of the industry.
Notable Wrestling Schools
- WWE Performance Center (Orlando, Florida): This is WWE’s official training facility where many future superstars are groomed. However, attending a reputable independent wrestling school is often a good first step before applying to the Performance Center.
- The Hart Dungeon (Calgary, Canada): One of the most famous wrestling schools in history, it produced legendary wrestlers like Bret Hart and Chris Jericho.
At wrestling school, you’ll learn essential techniques, including grappling, holds, body slams, and high-flying maneuvers. The school will also teach you how to protect yourself and others from injury during matches.
4. Build Your Character
Besides physical prowess, wrestling is about storytelling as well. That’s why developing an on-stage persona is crucial. You’ll need to create a character that resonates with the audience, whether you’re a hero (face) or a villain (heel).
Steps to Create Your WWE Persona
- Identify Your Strengths: Are you naturally charismatic? Do you have a unique style? Build a character around your personal attributes.
- Acting Classes: WWE wrestlers are part-athletes, part-actors. Acting lessons will help you get comfortable performing in front of large crowds and bring your character to life.
- Signature Moves: Develop a few signature moves or catchphrases that will set you apart from other wrestlers.
5. Gain Experience
Before you can make it to the WWE, you’ll need to build a name for yourself in smaller wrestling promotions. Independent wrestling leagues are a great way to gain experience, develop your persona, and get noticed by scouts.
Leagues to Consider
- Ring of Honor (ROH)
- All Elite Wrestling (AEW)
- Impact Wrestling
These promotions have launched the careers of many WWE stars, providing a platform to showcase their skills to a wider audience.
6. Apply to WWE Performance Center
Source : Wrestling Headlines
Once you have substantial experience and feel ready for the big leagues, it’s time to apply to the WWE Performance Center. WWE accepts applications online from athletes across various sports. Submitting your profile at WWE Recruit will put you on WWE’s radar, and if selected, you may be invited to a tryout.
WWE Tryouts: These are rigorous and test your physical, mental, and performance abilities. If you impress WWE recruiters, you may be offered a spot at the Performance Center, where you’ll undergo further training to hone your skills and prepare for your WWE debut.
7. Attend WWE Tryouts and Training
When selected for a WWE tryout, expect to be tested physically and mentally. WWE wants performers who are not only strong athletes but also entertaining and charismatic.
What to Expect at Tryouts
- Strength and Conditioning Drills: Prepare for grueling fitness tests.
- Wrestling Skills Assessment: Demonstrate your ability to execute basic and advanced moves.
- Personality Assessment: Show off your character and ability to entertain both on the mic and in the ring.
After tryouts, successful candidates will be invited to join the WWE Performance Center, where their journey to becoming a WWE Superstar officially begins.
Conclusion
In conclusion, learning how to become a WWE wrestler involves dedication, hard work, and a strategic approach to training both physically and mentally. From honing your skills at a reputable wrestling school to developing a unique in-ring persona, every step plays a vital role in your journey. By staying in top physical condition, gaining experience through local promotions, and applying to the WWE Performance Center, you can work your way toward achieving your dream of stepping into the WWE ring. With perseverance and passion, the path to becoming a WWE Superstar is within reach.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Becoming a WWE Wrestler
1. How Much Do WWE Wrestlers Make?
Salary of WWE wrestlers vary widely. Top-tier wrestlers like Roman Reigns or Ronda Rousey earn millions annually. Entry-level wrestlers, on the other hand, typically earn between $80,000 and $200,000 a year.
2. Do I Need an Acting Background to Become a Wrestler?
Yes, acting plays a significant role in WWE. Wrestlers need to develop personas, cut promos (speeches), and perform theatrically in front of live audiences. Acting experience or classes can help you succeed.
3. What Education is Required to Become a WWE Wrestler?
Although wrestling does not require formal education, many wrestlers have high school diplomas. Some even attend college, but wrestling skills and athletic training are the most critical factors.
4. How Long Does It Take to Become a WWE Wrestler?
It can take several years of training and experience in local wrestling promotions before getting noticed by WWE scouts. Once accepted at the WWE Performance Center, training continues until you’re ready to perform on WWE’s main stage.