The WWE ID developmental initiative has parted ways with three of its standout independent wrestling talents: Ice Williams, Jordan Oasis, and Aaron Roberts. These departures mark the latest roster adjustment in WWE’s evolving strategy to cultivate emerging wrestlers through its unique WWE ID program, which blends training, exposure, and in-ring experience for independent scene hopefuls.
Background on WWE ID Program
WWE ID, launched in late 2024, is a developmental system designed to nurture independent wrestling athletes outside the traditional WWE Performance Center route. The program partners with several wrestling schools and promotions, such as Reality of Wrestling and Black and Brave Academy, supporting talent with coaching, facilities, and spotlighting opportunities themed around the independent wrestling world.
In early 2025, WWE ID aligned closely with Evolve, an independent promotion acquired by WWE, creating a content platform where WWE ID prospects and some Performance Center trainees compete in televised matches. This collaboration aims to build star power for future WWE signings by blending in-ring action with streaming visibility.
Details of the Release
According to multiple industry sources including PWInsider and Wrestling Inc., Las Vegas-based Ice Williams, Washington State’s Jordan Oasis, and Mississippi’s Aaron Roberts have officially been released from WWE ID as of late August 2025. Although the exact reasons behind their releases have not been explicitly stated by WWE, insiders suggest this reflects ongoing talent evaluations and roster optimization efforts within WWE’s developmental branches.
A WWE insider shared, “The WWE ID program is continuously refining its roster to focus on prospects who align best with WWE’s vision and long-term plans. These tough decisions are part of how WWE stays competitive and innovative in developing talent”.
Impact on Released Talents and Their Futures
Despite their WWE ID departure, both Ice Williams and Jordan Oasis are scheduled to appear in several Evolve episodes recently taped before being cut. This allows them further exposure to audiences and potential booking opportunities outside WWE. Their departure from WWE ID is not necessarily an end but a pivot back into the broader wrestling circuit, where they can leverage their recent visibility to pursue additional bookings and contracts.
Aaron Roberts responded publicly and candidly to his release through a motivational video on social media, posting the simple and striking message: “I was fired from my dream job.” In the video, Roberts positions himself as resilient and “the baddest motherf**ker walking both sides of the Mississippi,” expressing determination to prove his worth despite WWE’s decision.
Roberts competed in the WWE ID Men’s Championship tournament earlier this year, falling to Jack Cartwheel at the NYWC ID Showcase in June a setting that highlights the fierce competition for advancement within the program.
The Significance of the Movement
These releases highlight the highly competitive and selective nature of WWE’s developmental system, especially as WWE expands its footprint beyond the traditional Performance Center. WWE ID represents a progressive attempt to discover talent in the increasingly vibrant independent scene, but with constant performance reviews and business considerations, many prospects face uncertain tenures.
Industry watchers note that roster shifts like these are not unusual during a program’s growth phase. The WWE ID initiative, by design, involves experimentation with talent development models, and parting ways with certain participants is part of the normal process.
Paul “Triple H” Levesque, WWE’s Chief Content Officer and a key figure behind WWE ID and Evolve, previously stated, “WWE ID is about creating new pathways and championing talent who might otherwise fly under the radar. While releases are unfortunate, they reflect our commitment to pushing top talent forward”.
What’s Next for Ice Williams, Jordan Oasis, and Aaron Roberts?
Though no longer part of WWE ID, all three wrestlers remain active on the independent scene, with industry insiders confident this setback could lead to fresh opportunities. According to a source close to the Las Vegas wrestling community, “Ice Williams has always been a fan favorite with his charismatic style; I wouldn’t be surprised if we see him making waves in other promotions soon.”
For Aaron Roberts, the public response to his release showcased a fighter’s mentality. His video quickly circulated in wrestling circles, garnering respect for candidly addressing adversity and signaling his availability for bookings. Roberts’ continued presence on the independent circuit could serve as a launching pad for future contracts with WWE or other major wrestling promotions.