WWE used the October 29, 2025 episode of Evolve, streaming on Tubi, to introduce three promising new additions to its independent developmental system, the WWE ID program. This recruitment comes amidst a recent wave of departures from the developmental ranks, including notable names like Kylie Rae and Zayda Steel, marking another chapter in WWE’s ongoing talent refresh cycle.
Newest WWE ID Prospects: Cunningham, McNair, and Knight
During the Evolve broadcast, interviewer Chuey Martinez welcomed Mike Cunningham, Jha’Quan McNair, and Eli Knight to the WWE family, officially announcing their entry into the ID program a platform designed to cultivate the next generation of WWE Superstars.
Mike Cunningham hails from the Nightmare Factory, a respected wrestling school run by WWE executive and star Cody Rhodes. Cunningham caught Rhodes’ attention during training, with Rhodes lauding him as “one of the school’s top students” thanks to his in-ring skill and work ethic.
Jha’Quan McNair refined his wrestling craft at Team Fearless Training Academy, led by former WCW star Brad Cain, famously known as ‘Lodi’. McNair’s competitive background includes collegiate Division I wrestling, giving him a strong foundation of athleticism and mat skills.
Eli Knight brings a multifaceted training résumé, having been shaped by Booker T’s Reality of Wrestling, Ace Steel’s Harley Race Foundation School of Wrestling, and The Dungeon a training facility overseen by WWE veterans Natalya and TJ Wilson, famed for producing technically proficient performers.
All three participated in the highly competitive WWE tryouts held during SummerSlam week in New Jersey earlier this year, solidifying their standing as top prospects vying for WWE contracts.
Context: WWE ID’s Role and Recent Turnover
The WWE ID program, launched in late 2024, focuses on developing independent wrestling talent with a path toward WWE’s main roster. It complements the WWE Next in Line (NIL) program, which supports collegiate athletes moving into professional wrestling.
Sources close to WWE revealed that the developmental system often experiences annual shifts: talent departures making way for fresh signings to keep the roster dynamic and competitive. The recent exits of established ID talents like Kylie Rae and Zayda Steel created vacancies filled by this new trio[3][6].
“WWE’s developmental pipeline is critical for building long-term success,” a WWE insider told us. “The recent departures opened doors for fresh faces like Cunningham, McNair, and Knight, who each bring a blend of experience and diverse training that WWE values highly. They have a long road ahead, but the foundation is there.”
What Training Backgrounds Reveal About New Prospects
Each new recruit boasts pedigree from different but highly regarded schools, illustrating WWE’s strategic scouting across varied wrestling ecosystems:
| Wrestler | Training Background | Notable Mentors/Influences |
|---|---|---|
| Mike Cunningham | Nightmare Factory | Cody Rhodes |
| Jha’Quan McNair | Team Fearless Training Academy | Brad Cain (‘Lodi’) |
| Eli Knight | Reality of Wrestling, Harley Race Foundation, The Dungeon | Booker T, Ace Steel, Natalya, TJ Wilson |
Their diverse backgrounds reflect WWE’s emphasis on technical proficiency, athleticism, and strong character work developed under industry veterans.
Path Forward: Development, Performance, and Opportunity
While signing with WWE ID marks a significant milestone, it is just the beginning of a challenging journey. These wrestlers will compete primarily on Evolve and possibly on NXT, WWE’s primary developmental brand. Success in championship pursuits at this level often leads to permanent WWE contracts and eventual elevation to the main roster.
Industry analysts note that the ID program serves as a proving ground wrestlers who excel here demonstrate readiness to entertain WWE’s global audience on larger platforms. The multi-year developmental pathway tests both physical skills and adaptability to WWE’s performance style[5].
Fan Reception and Expectations
Wrestling fans and analysts have expressed excitement on social media platforms, noting particularly the praise Mike Cunningham received from Cody Rhodes, which many interpret as an indication of his potential.
Social media buzz identified Eli Knight’s unique training blend as a key asset, especially given his experience in multiple renowned wrestling schools with distinct styles. Meanwhile, Jha’Quan McNair’s collegiate wrestling pedigree presents him as a potential powerhouse in WWE’s evolving landscape[4][7].
Conclusion: WWE Renewing Talent Pipeline with Strategic Additions
WWE’s unveiling of Mike Cunningham, Jha’Quan McNair, and Eli Knight reinforces the company’s long-term investment in the independent wrestling scene and its commitment to cultivating future stars through the ID program. With departures behind them and fresh prospects now stepping into the spotlight, WWE continues to strategically shape its talent pipeline for years to come.
As one backstage source summed up: “The developmental system is about timing and opportunity. When the door opens, WWE looks for the right mix of skill, charisma, and dedication. These three bring all that and more.”
Fans should keep an eye on Evolve and NXT in the coming months to witness these recruits take their first steps toward WWE stardom.
