Indie wrestler Miranda Alize participated in WWE’s Performance Center tryout held in Orlando this week, seeking a potential spot in the company’s NXT brand. The tryout aims to scout talented wrestlers who can perform in the ring and deliver promos effectively, aligning with WWE’s increased focus on developing well-rounded performers in 2026.
Shawn Michaels Shares Preview of Tryout; Nixon Newell Reacts
NXT head Shawn Michaels posted a brief video from the tryout on social media, clearly showing Alize among the participants. Alize’s girlfriend Nixon Newell, formerly known as Tegan Nox in WWE, responded in her Instagram stories noting,
“Number 34 [the number on Alize’s shirt] is my favorite,”
from which she expressed support for Alize’s efforts. Michaels accompanied the video with a caption questioning the next big star, saying,
“Who’s got next?… we’ll find out 👀 @WWERecruit,”
fueling suspense around the tryout results.
Background: Alize and Newell’s Recent Wrestling History
In November 2025, Miranda Alize and Nixon Newell gained attention when they left an AEW Collision event before their scheduled match against Tay Melo and Anna Jay. Although willing to lose, they reportedly wanted a longer match than the three minutes allotted, which led to replacements Hyan and Maya World taking their spot. Both replacements have since signed contracts with AEW. Alize originates from Texas and has developed her craft on the indie circuit, particularly in her home area.
Training and Appearance at Tryout
Miranda Alize, known by the nickname Lucha Baddie, received training from Booker T at the Reality of Wrestling school. She also has experience wrestling with Ring of Honor (ROH). The tryout session featured Shayna Baszler—known for her tough in-ring style—serving as a guest coach, possibly preparing for a more permanent coaching role at WWE’s Performance Center. This guidance suggests WWE’s commitment to elevating the skill sets of its prospective talent.
WWE’s Increased Recruitment Efforts for 2026
For the year ahead, WWE plans to hold many more tryouts compared to previous years, as the company actively seeks motivated and physically prepared indie wrestlers who demonstrate both in-ring ability and promo skills. Miranda Alize’s participation places her among a competitive group aiming to break into the mainstream wrestling scene through WWE’s developmental system.
Significance and Outlook for Miranda Alize and WWE
Miranda Alize’s appearance at the WWE NXT tryout marks a critical step in her wrestling career, giving her a chance to join one of the industry’s largest wrestling platforms. With her strong background, connections to experienced figures like Booker T and support from Newell, Alize enters this opportunity well-prepared. WWE’s intensified recruitment drive this year indicates a shift toward refreshing its roster with emerging talent, which could open doors for wrestlers like Alize to advance quickly if they impress evaluators during tryouts.
Who’s got next?… we’ll find out 👀 @WWERecruit pic.twitter.com/5cN2zLe25u
— Shawn Michaels (@ShawnMichaels) February 19, 2026
