In a bold move that underscores WWE’s ongoing commitment to diversify its talent pool, the company has officially tapped three promising athletes to join its NXT system via full-time Performance Center contracts. The trio — Meghan Walker, Cyrus Habibi-Likio, and Jessica Bogdanov — represent a varied athletic background and bring high-level competitive pedigree to WWE’s developmental ranks.
Meghan Walker: From Nebraska Sprinting Star to Full-Time WWE Aspirant
At just 21 years old, Meghan Walker transitions from collegiate track standout to full-time WWE signee. A former University of Nebraska–Lincoln sprinter, Walker made waves in the wrestling world after being part of WWE’s “Next In Line” (NIL) program.
During her time at Nebraska, she competed in the 200m and 400m events and also contributed to her university’s relay teams. Her track pedigree traces even further back: she was a two-time South Dakota state champion in high school.
Walker’s journey toward WWE intensified in SummerSlam week this year when she participated in WWE tryouts — an opportunity that reportedly helped land her full developmental contract. Her new deal elevates her from the NIL arrangement to a full Performance Center / NXT developmental contract, meaning she will now train full-time in Orlando.
Observers note that Walker’s signing aligns with WWE’s broader talent strategy: leveraging its NIL program as a proven pipeline from elite collegiate sports into pro wrestling. Indeed, some insiders point to previous NIL alumni, such as former NXT stars, as evidence of the program’s long-term value.
Cyrus Habibi-Likio: From the Gridiron to the Squared Circle
Cyrus Habibi-Likio is another recent addition to WWE’s developmental roster, bringing with him a rich athletic and personal narrative. According to reports, he attended WWE tryouts during SummerSlam week and has now secured a Performance Center deal.
Habibi-Likio’s background includes football: he played as a running back, and his athleticism caught WWE’s eye. But what makes his path particularly compelling is his digital footprint — he documented his journey toward WWE in vlogs, including footage from WrestleMania weekend, which reportedly resonated with company scouts.
Moreover, according to PWMania, Habibi-Likio comes from a diverse family background: on his maternal side, his grandfather was Iran’s former head military surgeon, while his father is of Tongan descent.
Under this new contract, he will report to WWE’s Performance Center in Orlando, where he is expected to begin his transformation from collegiate football athlete to in-ring competitor.
Jessica Bogdanov: Gymnastics, Calisthenics & Pole — A Unique Athletic Blend
The third member of the signing class, Jessica Bogdanov, brings an unconventional but highly athletic résumé that stands out even in WWE’s diverse developmental system. Her background includes high-level gymnastics, calisthenics, and professional pole performance.
Bogdanov’s achievements are notable: she earned a silver medal in the 5-ball group event and bronze in the 3 ribbons + 2 hoops competition at the 2011 Pan American Games. She later competed in the USA Gymnastics Rhythmic Championships in 2012, further honing her strength, balance, and flexibility. In 2015, she claimed the Freestyle Calisthenics World Championship, a title that underscores both her athleticism and her performance instincts.
Her journey into WWE was catalyzed by SummerSlam week tryouts, where she impressed with her agility and presence. According to PWMania, WWE was particularly drawn to her unique athletic profile — the blend of strength, flexibility, and artistry offered by her gymnastics and pole work makes her a compelling developmental prospect.
Strategic Implications for WWE & NXT
The signing of Walker, Habibi-Likio, and Bogdanov reflects WWE’s multi-pronged approach to talent development:
- NIL Program as a Pipeline: Walker’s transition from NIL to a full Performance Center deal reinforces the effectiveness of WWE’s “Next In Line” initiative.
- Diverse Athletic Backgrounds: By recruiting from track and field, football, gymnastics, and calisthenics, WWE is further broadening the developmental talent pool — not just in terms of gender, but in variety of athletic disciplines.
- Digital Savvy & Storytelling Potential: Habibi-Likio’s vlogging journey caught WWE’s attention, hinting that the company values not just in-ring potential but also personality, digital engagement, and self-branding.
What’s Next
All three new signings will begin training at WWE’s world-class Performance Center in Orlando, Florida — the same facility that has produced many of NXT’s breakout stars. As they settle into their contracts, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how their athleticism translates into wrestling — and which future storylines WWE might build around these unique talents.
Given their diverse backgrounds, Walker, Habibi-Likio, and Bogdanov could easily emerge as future influencers in NXT’s evolving brand. Whether they become high-flying women’s competitors, powerhouse agrarian-style wrestlers, or character-driven athletes with strong social media narratives remains to be seen — but their addition certainly raises the ceiling of potential.
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