WWE Grand Slam Champion Bayley recently created a buzz within the wrestling community by visiting the Chicago Wrestling Center, the training facility run by TNA star Mustafa Ali in Forest Park, Illinois. This cross-promotional moment between two of wrestling’s most dynamic personalities has sparked conversations about collaboration, mentorship, and the evolving landscape of professional wrestling in 2025.
Bayley’s Chicago Stop: A Meeting of Champions
On November 18, Mustafa Ali took to Instagram to share two candid photos of himself alongside Bayley, both sporting smiles inside the ring at the Chicago Wrestling Center. In a succinct but impactful caption, Ali described Bayley as “The GOAT”—an acronym for “Greatest Of All Time”—and expressed his appreciation for her visit by tagging both Bayley and the facility[1][2][3].
Bayley’s presence at the school was more than a simple drop-in. According to a source close to the WWE locker room, “Bayley’s always been passionate about giving back to the wrestling community, and her visit to Ali’s school is just another example. She spent time working with trainees, sharing insights from her journey, and even rolled around in the ring for a few drills.” This hands-on approach from Bayley provided an invaluable experience for local wrestlers and highlighted the mutual respect between top-tier talent, regardless of their current promotions.
The Rise of the Chicago Wrestling Center
Mustafa Ali founded the Chicago Wrestling Center in early 2024, shortly after departing WWE and signing with TNA. Located in Forest Park—a suburb just west of downtown Chicago—the facility has rapidly become a destination for both aspiring wrestlers and established stars passing through the Midwest[1][2][3].
Ali’s move to TNA revitalized his career, as he captured the TNA X Division Championship and became the leader of the formidable stable “Order 4.” Under Ali’s guidance, Order 4 recently secured a high-profile victory over The Hardys and Cedric Alexander at TNA Turning Point on November 14, underscoring Ali’s continued influence in the industry[1][2][3].
The center emphasizes not only in-ring technique but also the mental and emotional aspects of wrestling. According to Ali in a previous interview, “I wanted to build a place where people could learn the craft the right way. It’s not just about moves—it’s about heart, storytelling, and respect for the business.” This philosophy resonated with Bayley, who has long been known for her dedication to the sport’s traditions and her focus on elevating the next generation.
Bayley’s Ongoing WWE Storyline
While Bayley’s visit to the Chicago Wrestling Center made headlines, her main focus remains on the WWE Raw roster, where she continues to be a cornerstone of the women’s division. Currently, Bayley is embroiled in a heated rivalry with The Kabuki Warriors (Asuka and Kairi Sane), the reigning WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions[1][2][3].
The feud reached a boiling point on the November 3 episode of Raw, when Bayley and her ally Lyra Valkyria were ambushed by The Kabuki Warriors, alongside Nia Jax and Lash Legend. Since then, Bayley has been relentless in seeking retribution, appearing weekly on Raw and refusing to back down despite the odds. Sources within WWE describe Bayley as “as motivated as ever,” with her focus squarely on regaining championship gold and restoring order to a division currently dominated by factions and alliances.
Cross-Promotion and the Spirit of Wrestling
Bayley’s appearance at a TNA-affiliated training facility is a testament to the increasingly blurred lines between wrestling promotions in the modern era. While WWE and TNA (formerly Impact Wrestling) have traditionally operated as separate entities, moments like these reflect a shared commitment to the industry’s growth and the development of new talent.
Mustafa Ali’s journey—from WWE mainstay and Retribution leader to TNA star and head trainer—mirrors the changing tides in professional wrestling, where talent frequently crosses boundaries to pursue new opportunities. Bayley’s willingness to engage with Ali’s school demonstrates a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that transcends company lines.
As one WWE insider commented, “There’s a real sense of community when top stars like Bayley take time to mentor the next generation. It sends a message that wrestling, at its core, is about lifting each other up, whether you’re on Raw or Impact or anywhere else.”
Trainees React: Inspiration in Real Time
For the students at the Chicago Wrestling Center, Bayley’s visit was nothing short of inspiring. According to several attendees, Bayley offered words of encouragement and practical advice on everything from ring psychology to career longevity.
“She told us to never stop learning and to always respect the grind,” said one trainee, who asked to remain anonymous. “Seeing someone at her level take an interest in what we’re doing here gives us all hope. It’s proof that hard work really does get noticed.”
Ali echoed these sentiments in a post-visit interview, stating, “Bayley’s visit meant the world to everyone here. She embodies what it means to be a true champion—on camera and off. We’re grateful she took the time to share her knowledge and inspire the next wave of talent.”
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Bayley and Ali?
With her ongoing feud on Raw and her constant drive for excellence, Bayley shows no signs of slowing down. Insiders suggest she remains in the title hunt and could soon challenge for singles or tag team gold as her rivalry with The Kabuki Warriors intensifies.
Meanwhile, Mustafa Ali continues to make waves in TNA, both as a performer and as a mentor. His Order 4 stable is gaining momentum, and the Chicago Wrestling Center is poised to become a major training hub in the Midwest. Ali’s ability to balance his in-ring commitments with his dedication to developing talent speaks to his evolution as both a wrestler and a leader in the industry[1][2][3].
Final Thoughts: A Moment That Matters
Bayley’s visit to Mustafa Ali’s Chicago Wrestling Center serves as a reminder of what makes professional wrestling truly special: the sense of community, the dedication to craft, and the willingness of established stars to nurture future generations.
As Ali put it in his Instagram post, “The GOAT came through.” For the trainees in Forest Park—and for wrestling fans watching around the world—Bayley’s appearance was more than just a photo op. It was a moment of inspiration and a celebration of wrestling’s enduring spirit.