NXT Divas: How To Submit Your Wrestling Audition
So, you dream of becoming an NXT Diva? You've got the charisma, the athleticism, and the unmistakable desire to shine under the bright lights of WWE's NXT brand. Awesome! But how do you actually get your foot in the door? What does it take to get noticed and potentially become the next big thing in women's wrestling? This guide will walk you through the process of submitting your audition and hopefully, give you some insights to increase your chances of success. Let's dive in!
Understanding What NXT is Looking For
Before you even think about filming an audition video, take a step back and really consider what NXT is all about. It's not just about wrestling; it's about entertainment, character, and untapped potential. NXT is WWE's developmental brand, meaning they're looking for individuals they can mold into well-rounded performers. They want people who can connect with the audience, tell a story in the ring, and ultimately, become stars. Think about some of the most successful NXT alumni – Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, Sasha Banks, Bayley – they all brought something unique to the table, a certain 'it' factor that made them stand out. So, what's your 'it' factor?
Consider these points when preparing your submission:
- Athleticism: While prior wrestling experience is a plus, it's not always a requirement. NXT is interested in athletes from diverse backgrounds – gymnastics, dance, martial arts, even cheerleading. They want to see that you have the physical foundation to learn the ropes (literally!).
 - Charisma and Personality: This is HUGE. Can you command attention? Are you comfortable in front of a camera? Do you have a unique personality that will resonate with fans? Practice your promos, work on your facial expressions, and let your natural charisma shine through.
 - Wrestling Ability (If Applicable): If you have wrestling experience, showcase your skills! Highlight your signature moves, your in-ring psychology, and your ability to work a crowd. Keep it concise and impactful.
 - Marketability: What makes you different? What's your story? What kind of character can you portray? NXT is looking for individuals they can build compelling storylines around. Think about your look, your style, and your overall presentation. Are you someone that fans will want to invest in?
 - Dedication and Work Ethic: This might not be immediately apparent in an audition video, but it's crucial. NXT is a demanding environment, and they want individuals who are willing to work hard, learn quickly, and constantly improve. Show them that you're passionate about wrestling and dedicated to achieving your goals.
 
Crafting Your Submission: The Essentials
Alright, you've done your research and you're ready to create your submission. Here's a breakdown of the key elements:
The Application Form
First and foremost, you'll need to fill out the online application form on the official WWE Performance Center website. This form will ask for basic information such as your name, age, height, weight, contact details, and athletic background. Be honest and accurate in your responses. This is your first impression, so make it a good one!
The Audition Video: Your Time to Shine
The centerpiece of your submission is your audition video. This is your opportunity to showcase your skills, your personality, and your potential. Here are some tips for creating a killer audition video:
- Keep it Concise: Aim for a video that's no longer than 3-5 minutes. NXT receives a ton of submissions, so you need to grab their attention quickly and keep them engaged.
 - Professional Quality (Sort Of): You don't need a Hollywood-level production, but make sure your video is well-lit, well-shot, and has clear audio. Use a decent camera (your smartphone will probably do the trick), find a quiet location, and avoid distractions.
 - Introduction: Start with a brief introduction. State your name, age, height, weight, and any relevant athletic background. Be confident and enthusiastic!
 - Athletic Showcase: This is where you demonstrate your physical abilities. If you have wrestling experience, show off your moves, your chain wrestling, and your ability to take bumps. If you don't have wrestling experience, showcase your athleticism through drills, exercises, or demonstrations of your skills in other sports or disciplines. Examples: sprints, jumps, push-ups, squats, gymnastics routines, martial arts forms.
 - Promo Time: This is your chance to show off your personality and your ability to connect with the audience. Cut a short promo (1-2 minutes) where you introduce your character, explain why you want to be an NXT Diva, and generally try to captivate the viewer. Be creative, be authentic, and be yourself!
 - Why You?: Conclude your video by explaining why you believe you have what it takes to be an NXT Diva. What sets you apart from the competition? What unique qualities do you bring to the table? What are your goals and aspirations? Sell yourself!
 
Photos: Visual Appeal Matters
In addition to the application form and the audition video, you'll also need to submit photos. Choose high-quality photos that showcase your physique and your personality. Include both headshots and full-body shots. Avoid using heavily filtered or edited photos. You want to present an accurate representation of yourself.
Maximizing Your Chances: Tips and Tricks
Submitting a great audition is only half the battle. Here are some additional tips to help you stand out from the crowd:
- Network, Network, Network: Attend wrestling shows, training seminars, and conventions. Get to know people in the industry. Make connections. The more people who know you and your work, the better your chances of getting noticed.
 - Train, Train, Train: Even if you don't have access to a professional wrestling school, you can still work on your fitness, your strength, and your agility. Take classes in other disciplines, such as gymnastics, dance, or martial arts. The more well-rounded you are as an athlete, the more appealing you'll be to NXT.
 - Build Your Brand: Create a social media presence and start building your brand. Share your training videos, your promo work, and your thoughts on wrestling. Engage with fans and other wrestlers. The more visible you are, the better.
 - Be Patient and Persistent: The road to NXT is long and challenging. Don't get discouraged if you don't hear back right away. Keep training, keep improving, and keep submitting your work. Eventually, your hard work will pay off.
 - Get Feedback: Ask trusted friends, family members, or wrestling professionals to review your audition video and provide feedback. Be open to criticism and use it to improve your presentation.
 
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a Low-Quality Video: Poor lighting, bad audio, shaky camera work – these are all red flags that will immediately turn off the reviewers.
 - Being Unprepared: Don't just wing it! Plan your video, rehearse your promo, and make sure you know what you want to say and do.
 - Lacking Enthusiasm: If you don't seem passionate about wrestling, why should they believe you're serious about becoming an NXT Diva?
 - Being Generic: What makes you different? What sets you apart from the thousands of other hopefuls? Find your unique voice and let it shine through.
 - Giving Up Too Easily: Rejection is part of the process. Don't let it discourage you. Learn from your mistakes and keep pushing forward.
 
The Bottom Line
Becoming an NXT Diva is a challenging but achievable goal. It requires talent, hard work, dedication, and a whole lot of passion. By following the tips and advice in this guide, you can significantly increase your chances of getting noticed and potentially realizing your dream of wrestling on the biggest stage in the world. So, what are you waiting for? Get out there and show them what you've got! Good luck, guys!