WWE is conducting a new series of tryouts this week in New Jersey as part of the WWE SummerSlam 2025 Weekend, inviting a broad range of athletes, wrestlers, and models to showcase their skills. This event is drawing attention due to the diversity of participants, including prospects from the UK, Ireland, and various other backgrounds, all vying for a place in WWE’s future roster.
Distinctive Talent and Size Draw WWE Interest
Despite limited official details on the attendees, sources confirm the tryouts include a remarkable variety of talent. Among the participants is Ben Bishop, an imposing seven-foot-tall athlete nicknamed “Big Trouble” by insiders, who is set to take part in upcoming WWE evaluations. Bishop’s stature makes him stand out as one of the tallest prospects the company has engaged.
Another figure previously noted to have tried out is former AEW star Leyla Hirsch, who has explored opportunities within WWE, including a potential role as a referee. However, the session broadens beyond this, highlighting WWE’s aim to attract a range of physical styles and skills.
International and Athletic Backgrounds Represented
The current tryouts also feature multiple prospects from the British and Irish wrestling circuits, including Goldenboy Santos and Rayne Leverkusen, who have previously attended WWE’s London tryouts earlier this year. Other wrestlers such as LJ Cleary, Omari, and CBL add to the wrestling talent pool in attendance.
In addition to wrestlers, various athletes and fitness models are present, reflecting WWE’s interest in diverse athletic abilities. This mix includes social media influencer Meghan Walker, who is drawing attention for her crossover appeal.
Notable Athletes Bringing Unique Strengths
This weekend’s lineup includes a range of athletes with varied sporting backgrounds, underscoring WWE’s commitment to finding talent with different athletic profiles:
- Maliq Carr, a former Michigan State football player with Division I experience, brings strength and competitive sportsmanship.
- Ahmed Essam, an Egyptian amateur wrestler who has impressed WWE enough to receive a repeated invitation after participating in London tryouts.
- Eduardo Godinho, a Brazilian marathon runner and popular online fitness figure, offers endurance and a distinctive athletic skill set.
- Zoey Hines, a former Boston College softball player who also competed internationally with the French National Softball Team, combines collegiate and global competition experience.
- Syd Langston, a Canadian ex-hockey player turned Instagram model, represents a striking blend of sports and social media presence valued by WWE.
- Ariana Wright, Miss Maryland 2023 and former track & field athlete at the University of Maryland, combines pageantry with high-level athleticism.
WWE’s Broad Talent Search Reflects Expanding Strategy
This wide-ranging group reveals WWE’s ongoing strategy to tap into diverse pools of talent, whether from traditional wrestling backgrounds or other sports and entertainment fields. Their inclusion of international athletes and fitness personalities suggests a growing recognition of varied skills contributing to WWE’s dynamic style.
As WWE SummerSlam Weekend unfolds, these tryouts may signal the company’s future direction in recruiting talent who are not only athletes but also capable of engaging audiences beyond the ring.
Next Steps and Anticipated Developments
Updates on participants’ performances and potential signings are expected in the coming weeks. WWE’s continued efforts to expand its roster with a diverse lineup of wrestlers and crossover stars illustrate its commitment to evolving its brand. Fans and industry observers will be watching closely to see who secures a contract following these tryouts.
