How Much Should You Save to Train in WWE?

Training to become a professional wrestler in WWE is not just about raw talent and physical strength. It's a journey that requires extensive preparation, dedication, and financial planning. If you're seriously considering the path to WWE, this article will guide you through the costs, requirements, and steps involved.

Understanding the Path to WWE

Many aspiring pro wrestlers wonder how much they should save to train at WWE. However, the truth is that the traditional path to becoming a WWE wrestler is more nuanced and multifaceted than simply saving a large sum of money. It involves starting in other sports, smaller promotions, or training programs designed to develop raw talent into professional wrestling stars.

Infiltrating the WWE Universe

According to statistics and personal experiences, many WWE wrestlers did not start out in WWE. Instead, they might have:

Participated in other professional sports like football or MMA (e.g., Goldberg in the NFL, Mark Henry in BEING THE STRONGEST MAN IN THE WORLD). Trained in smaller wrestling promotions like Ring of Honor or... Started in WWE’s developmental territory, also known as NXT, which is now run at WWE Developmental.

The Developmental Path

Truly, joining WWE’s developmental territory at NXT is not a straightforward path. It often requires:

A strong athletic background in another sport A family connection to the wrestling scene (e.g., John Cena, Randy Orton) Sensational performances in an independent promotion (e.g., Brock Lesnar, Dave Bautista)

The Path of a Pro Wrestler

Assuming you're not a standout athlete in college football, nor do you have a family connection to WWE, your best course of action might be to start in an independent wrestling promotion. This means undergoing rigorous training designed to develop your wrestling skills.

There are numerous pro wrestling schools across North America that offer training and education. These schools are often run by former WWE or WCW wrestlers, providing a valuable grassroots foundation. Training in one of these schools can cost several thousand dollars. Depending on the school and the facilities, you might expect to spend around $5,000-$10,000 for the entire training program. Remember, these figures are conservative estimates, and actual costs can vary significantly.

Financial Considerations

While you're training, you'll also need to maintain your physical condition and pay for your own ring gear, which might not be provided by the schools. Additionally, you should factor in the cost of day jobs to support yourself and cover incidentals like travel and nutritional supplements. This ongoing financial commitment can be substantial, especially if you're juggling multiple commitments.

The Long Road Ahead

After completing your training, you must continue to hone your skills and build a reputation in independent wrestling promotions. Prospects are better if you can stand out, whether in a specific way or by performing well in your local area. The ultimate goal is to catch the attention of WWE officials or secure a place in WWE’s developmental territory.

Conclusion

In summary, while it's essential to save money for training, the journey to becoming a WWE wrestler is a marathon, not a sprint. The financial investment is just one aspect of the journey. Dedication, persistence, and a commitment to your craft are equally crucial. If you're truly passionate about becoming a WWE wrestler, the long and often arduous journey is well worth it.