4 Huge Indie Stars Joining NXT In January?

Get ready for a BIG Performance Center intake.

Ricochet Newcastle
Oli Sandler / The Ringside Perspective

WWE could be on the verge of signing four major independent wrestling stars, according to PWInsider.com.

The first name linked is Ricochet, who recently wrapped up his dates with New Japan Pro Wrestling, and is now free to negotiate with other companies following his Lucha Underground contract's expiration. A long-time WWE target, the high-flying star is yet to announce any indie bookings for 2018, suggesting a deal may be imminent.

The same goes for War Machine. One of the most prolific tag teams on the planet, Ray Rowe and Hanson finished with Ring Of Honor at last week's Final Battle pay-per-view, and will leave NJPW after Wrestle Kingdom 12. They're expected to join Ricochet at the Performance Center this coming January.

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PWI are also that reporting "a very prominent female independent talent" will be part of the intake, along with a handful of other names. This could refer to a former Mae Young Classic competitor, many of whom returned to wrestling's smaller stages after the competition, though there's no clear indication either way.

More news on these potential signings is expected to break over the coming days, but Ricochet and War Machine already look like dead certs.

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Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.