WWE Grand Slam Champion Bayley recently turned heads in the wrestling community by making a surprise visit to TNA star Mustafa Ali’s state-of-the-art wrestling school in the Chicago area. The encounter, captured in photos and shared by Ali himself, has sparked fresh speculation about cross-promotional relationships and the dedication of WWE’s top talents to continually honing their craft.
Bayley Makes a Surprise Appearance at the Chicago Wrestling Center
The wrestling world buzzed with excitement as images emerged of Bayley training at the brand-new Chicago Wrestling Center—the training facility founded by Mustafa Ali, a 20-year veteran of the squared circle who has made his mark in WWE, TNA, and New Japan Pro Wrestling[1][2][3]. Ali took to Instagram to share the moment, posting two photos featuring himself alongside the WWE luminary and expressing his admiration for her skill, work ethic, and willingness to give back to the next generation[3].
Inside Mustafa Ali’s Ambitious New Training Facility
Founded in 2024, the Chicago Wrestling Center reflects Ali’s commitment to nurturing the next wave of pro wrestling talent[1][2]. Located in Forest Park, Illinois, the school offers an extensive four-month training course directly under Ali’s tutelage. With a reputation built in major promotions and deep roots in Chicago’s indie scene, Ali’s venture quickly attracted attention both locally and nationwide[1].
The facility itself is equipped with top-tier gym and cardio equipment, a professional-grade wrestling ring, and even cinematic cameras for promo training, ensuring students receive a comprehensive wrestling education. Guest trainers from WWE, AEW, TNA, and New Japan Pro are expected to make appearances, adding further prestige to the program[1].
Why Bayley’s Visit Matters
For Bayley, a superstar who has achieved every accolade WWE offers, the decision to train at Ali’s school is a testament to her relentless pursuit of excellence. It also signals respect for Ali’s expertise and the unique environment he has cultivated in Chicago.
According to a WWE insider, “Bayley is always looking for ways to evolve her in-ring style and connect with the next wave of talent. Training with someone like Ali, who’s reinvented himself multiple times and thrived across several major promotions, is exactly the kind of challenge she seeks.”
Behind the Scenes: What Happened During the Session
Sources close to the school reported that Bayley’s session included drills with aspiring wrestlers, technical chain wrestling, and promo class exercises that focused on authentic character work—a hallmark of both Ali’s and Bayley’s careers. Students at the Chicago Wrestling Center were reportedly “in awe” of Bayley’s willingness to demonstrate, critique, and encourage throughout the session.
One attendee noted, “Bayley didn’t just go through the motions. She was hands-on, providing feedback, sharing her experiences, and even joking around with the group. It was a masterclass in how to be both a superstar and a mentor.”
Mustafa Ali’s Perspective: A School Built on Experience
After his 2023 release from WWE, Mustafa Ali quickly established himself as a force on the independent scene and as the X-Division Champion in TNA[1]. The Chicago Wrestling Center represents his vision for the future of pro wrestling—a place where passionate athletes can receive world-class training regardless of their background[1][2].
Ali’s experience spans everything from WWE’s high-octane 205 Live division to the international stage in New Japan Pro Wrestling. His reputation as a technical innovator and motivational leader made his school a natural destination for motivated wrestlers—and now, for established stars like Bayley.
Reflecting on Bayley’s visit, Ali wrote, “Having someone of Bayley’s caliber choose to spend time at our facility validates everything we’re building here. She’s not just a WWE Grand Slam Champion—she’s a role model for everyone who steps into the ring.”
What This Means for the Future of Wrestling Training
Bayley’s training appearance at a non-WWE facility underscores a growing trend in professional wrestling: boundaries between promotions are becoming more porous when it comes to sharing knowledge and developing talent. With more schools like the Chicago Wrestling Center welcoming guests from various organizations, the next generation of wrestlers will benefit from a broader array of influences.
Industry observers note that WWE has increasingly encouraged its superstars to seek outside perspectives. As one longtime WWE trainer told us, “We want our talent to be the best in the world—and that means learning from the best, wherever they are. Bayley’s always been a leader in that respect.”
Fan and Industry Reaction
Fans on social media responded enthusiastically to the photos of Bayley and Ali, citing the move as evidence of Bayley’s commitment to her craft and her willingness to give back to the wrestling community. Meanwhile, wrestlers and trainers praised both Bayley and Ali for setting a positive example.
Notably, speculation has swirled about whether more WWE stars might follow in Bayley’s footsteps by seeking out training at Ali’s school or other top independent facilities. As cross-promotional relationships continue to evolve, these interactions could pave the way for high-profile collaborations and surprise appearances in the future.
A Backstage Perspective
A source close to WWE’s creative team shared, “Bayley’s always been one to push boundaries. Her visit to Ali’s school wasn’t just about training—it was about connecting with another generation and showing that learning never stops, even at the highest level. It’s the kind of thing that makes her invaluable to the company.”
What’s Next for Bayley and Mustafa Ali?
For Bayley, the visit is part of her ongoing mission to stay at the top of WWE’s women’s division, while also serving as a mentor and inspiration to up-and-coming talent. For Mustafa Ali, the successful launch of his school with a high-profile guest like Bayley cements the Chicago Wrestling Center’s status as a premier destination for aspiring wrestlers.
As the wrestling world continues to react, one thing is clear: the lines between past, present, and future stars are blurring, and the result is a more vibrant, collaborative, and exciting industry for performers and fans alike.
“Seeing Bayley walk through those doors wasn’t just a big deal for our students—it was a reminder that greatness is always in pursuit of growth,” Ali was overheard telling students after the session. “That’s what we’re trying to build here—an environment where anyone, from rookie to champion, can get better every day.”
With superstar visits and a top-tier curriculum, the Chicago Wrestling Center is quickly establishing itself as a new hub for wrestling excellence—and Bayley’s endorsement only accelerates its rise.