The WWE ID program has been under heavy fire after several indie names were recently released, leading many fans to call it a waste of time. But GCW owner Brett Lauderdale isn’t having it — and he’s stepping in to set the record straight.
When one fan took to Twitter to trash the WWE ID system, they didn’t hold back, writing:
“Honestly, what kind of dumb s** would sign up for this after the debacle of the last one? I know the answer is terrible indy workers, but roll with me a bit.”*
Lauderdale replied with a reality check, defending the program’s value and flexibility for talent looking to grow without getting locked into something long-term.
“Plus access to train at the WWE PC with WWE talent and trainers and still work virtually wherever they want whenever they want and still be eligible to sign elsewhere in short order without being tied down to a long term contract at such an early stage in their career…”
That response sparked even more heat, with another fan accusing Lauderdale of only defending the program because he allegedly profits from it.
“Hey the guy who makes money off WWE ID shows thinks you should sign up for WWE ID! Shocking!!”
Lauderdale fired back immediately, denying any financial gain from the program and making it clear he’s not pushing anyone to sign up.
“I make no money off WWE ID or WWE and I didn’t say anyone should sign up. But I know people that are in the program and have had very positive experiences. Criticizing the program is one thing (and ok) but we should at least be accurate and avoid spreading disinformation.”
This all comes on the heels of names like Zayda Steel and Kylie Rae exiting the program — with Zayda choosing not to re-sign and Kylie being told her deal wouldn’t be renewed. That only added fuel to the argument that WWE ID might not be delivering on its promise.
Still, Lauderdale’s comments offer a different perspective — that the WWE ID program gives young wrestlers a place to grow, learn, and move on when they’re ready. Like it or not, it’s becoming a stepping stone in today’s wrestling landscape.
