Dustin Rhodes would love for Tony Khan to launch an AEW talent recruitment program with the independents, similar to the new WWE ID program. In an interview with WFAA.8, Rhodes shared his enthusiasm for the idea.
“I would love for Tony to do that with us where we have a little type thing. That would be kind of cool for some of our schools.”
Rhodes isn’t just a wrestler for AEW and Ring of Honor, but also has worked as a behind-the-scenes coach. While he certainly has the experience to be a part of the WWE ID program, he doubts his school, the Rhodes Wrestling Academy, will be approached by WWE.
“That’s probably the reason they haven’t reached out, right, because I’m contracted with All Elite Wrestling.”
Though Rhodes’ Wrestling Academy isn’t an official partner of the WWE ID program, Cody Rhodes’ Nightmare Academy is. Other schools attached to WWE ID include Seth Rollins Black & Brave Academy and Booker T’s Reality of Wrestling.
WWE ID
WWE ID has seen several names from the independent wrestling scene sign with WWE as ‘Prospects’ of the new talent development program. Prospects will receive access to the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, as well as training from the promotion’s various coaches and staff. Ring of Honor/Dragon Gate USA founder Gabe Sapolsky is overseeing WWE ID, ensuring that Prospects learn from the very best in how to develop as in-ring talents.
For the latest on the WWE ID program, as well as which stars are Prospects, check out our WWE ID central hub.