WWE's first tryout camp of 2026 wrapped this week at the Performance Center in Orlando, delivering a mix of star power, controversy, and strategic shifts in talent recruitment.
The multi-day camp featured a surprise appearance from John Cena, who served as coach for the promo class portion of the tryout. Undefeated MMA fighter Regina Tarin documented Cena's involvement on Instagram, sharing a photo with the caption, "Coach: John Cena."
The tryout drew a diverse class including indie standout Starboy Charlie, basketball player James Karnik, and strength athletes Bruss Hamilton and Joshua Hillen.
However, safety concerns emerged after social media influencer Sallie Grace publicly quit the camp following a concussion. Grace alleged that "everyone's getting concussed left and right" during drills, claiming coaches pushed participants to take bumps "harder and harder." She announced her departure by telling a coach directly that she "can't ruin my brain."
According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, the tryout was strategically structured to spotlight Black male athletes and bodybuilder-type prospects. Dave Meltzer reported this emphasis was a direct response to criticism that Triple H "doesn't push black males" on the main roster, with WWE leadership "aware of the optics."
The camp also signals a broader recruitment pivot away from college/NIL athletes toward in-shape indie wrestlers who can already work and cut promos.
