WWE Confirm EC3 Signing After NXT Debut

Former Impact star jumps ship.

Ethan Carter III debut
www.wwe.com

WWE has formally announced the acquisition of Ethan Carter III, after the former TNA star was spotted in the crowd at last night's NXT TakeOver show.

The news comes mere weeks after it was confirmed that EC3 was to depart the Impact Zone after more than four years in Orlando. The 34-year-old held the company's biggest prize twice, headlining Bound For Glory, its marquee show, in 2015 and 2016.

After similar career moves in recent years by the likes of AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, Bobby Roode, and Drew McIntyre, Carter is walking a well-trodden path. Styles is currently one of the main roster's leading lights, whilst the latter three have all worn NXT Title gold.

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Having spent four years as a WWE developmental hopeful between 2009 and 2013, he joins the company's Performance Centre already acquainted with the demands of its in-ring style and touring schedule. During this tenure, EC3 went under the name of Derrick Bateman, competing in season four of NXT.

On a sour note, confirmation that he will initially be joining the ostensible rookies down in Florida would appear to dash hopes of an appearance at tonight's Royal Rumble. The Ohio-native had previously been mooted as a potential surprise entrant, with several spots in the 30-man free-for-all as yet unclaimed.

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