Mike D Vecchio, one of the most promising European wrestlers anticipated to join WWE, appears to have concluded his independent wrestling chapter. At PROGRESS Wrestling’s Chapter 183 event on August 25, 2025, Vecchio dropped the PROGRESS Atlas Championship in a high-stakes triple threat match, signaling a farewell to his indie fans ahead of a likely WWE debut[3][4].
Mike D Vecchio’s Farewell at PROGRESS Wrestling
Vecchio, who lost the PROGRESS Atlas Championship against Will Kroos and the new titleholder Gene Munny, received a heartfelt standing ovation following the match—a rare moment symbolizing the respect and admiration from the PROGRESS fanbase[3][4]. PROGRESS Wrestling itself posted on social media: “In what could be his final PROGRESS match for the foreseeable future, Mike D gets a standing ovation from the fans…”[3].
This sentiment encapsulates the end of an era for Vecchio on the UK’s indie scene, where he had established himself as a dominant competitor, notably capturing the PROGRESS Atlas title during his run. Fans and peers alike acknowledged this moment as the closing chapter before Vecchio transitions to WWE.
The Path to WWE: From European Indies to Global Stage
Mike D Vecchio’s upcoming WWE contract was first reported in May 2025 after successful tryouts during WWE’s European tour in March. Alongside fellow European sensations Aigle Blanc and Zozaya, Vecchio has been earmarked as part of WWE’s strategic international recruitment drive[1][2][3].
According to insiders familiar with WWE’s plans, all three talents are expected to begin training and competing at WWE’s Performance Center as soon as September 2025. These moves align with WWE’s long-rumored plans to finally launch NXT Europe, a dedicated brand for European-based talent[4]. A WWE insider shared, “WWE is doubling down on global expansion, and bringing in fresh international stars like Mike D Vecchio is crucial to staking their claim in Europe’s vibrant wrestling market.”
Mike D Vecchio’s Wrestling Credentials
Hailing from Belgium, Mike D Vecchio (real name Mike Derudder) commands respect for his technical skills and hard-hitting style. He is a reigning wXw European Champion, having won the title from Aigle Blanc in late 2024—a European rivalry that has significantly raised his profile[1][2]. Vecchio has also worked extensively with top European independent promotions such as PROGRESS, RevPro, and wXw, showcasing versatility and excellence in ring psychology.
In addition to his work on the European circuit, both Vecchio and Aigle Blanc competed in All Japan Pro-Wrestling’s prestigious 2025 Champion Carnival tournament, gaining exposure in a revered international platform. The pair also teamed on the last night of the tournament to challenge for the All Asia Tag Team Titles, illustrating their synergy and growing global presence[1][2].
Another European Talent Bids Goodbye: Zozaya’s Farewell to RevPro
Vecchio’s departure follows the recent farewell appearance of Zozaya at RevPro’s 13 Year Anniversary Show, hinting at a broader WWE signing spree from the European tryouts[3][4]. Sources confirm that the WWE is preparing a new wave of international talents to refresh its roster for a global audience.
A backstage source revealed, “The WWE sees enormous potential in Europe’s independent scene. Signing these athletes isn’t just about talent acquisition—it’s about building a foundation for future shows like NXT Europe, designed to spotlight stars who already have built loyal fanbases overseas.”
What This Means for WWE Fans and the Indie Scene
WWE’s aggressive recruitment from Europe signals a new era of diversity and international storytelling within its ranks. For fans, the arrival of fresh faces like Mike D Vecchio brings anticipation of new match styles, narratives, and intercultural rivalries. For the indie scene, while they lose marquee talents, the opportunity for others to rise in their absence remains.
Vecchio’s farewell at PROGRESS was not merely a formality; it was an emotional send-off acknowledging his impact on the promotion—and a clear statement that his future now lies on the world’s largest wrestling stage.
Looking Ahead: WWE’s Global Expansion and NXT Europe
Industry watchers expect Mike D Vecchio’s arrival at WWE to coincide with the promotion’s imminent launch of NXT Europe, as internal discussions about this brand have been ongoing for years[4]. The investment in diverse talent pools reflects WWE’s commitment to growing its global footprint beyond the United States.
WWE will likely position talents like Vecchio to bridge European wrestling culture with the company’s legacy style, thereby attracting new markets and rejuvenating its programming. One source close to WWE stated, “The fusion of European technical wrestling with WWE’s entertainment style will create a dynamic product that resonates globally.”
Mike D Vecchio’s farewell at PROGRESS Wrestling represents the closing of a significant chapter as he embarks on a new journey within WWE. His championship run, international experience, and fan support mark him as a talent destined for impactful storytelling on a much larger stage. WWE fans and wrestling enthusiasts worldwide eagerly await his official debut and what the future holds for NXT Europe.
As the wrestling world evolves, Vecchio’s transition epitomizes the exciting intersection of independent wrestling excellence and mainstream wrestling ambition—heralding new possibilities for fans and performers alike.