Former Syracuse Lineman Josh Black receives a WWE contract after WWE Summerslam

This year's WWE SummerSlam took an unexpected turn as a "secret" tryout saw 54 college athletes competing for coveted WWE contracts.

Josh Black in a file photo [Image-Twitter@jnblack85]
By Blesson Daniel | Aug 18, 2023 | 2 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

This year’s WWE SummerSlam took an unexpected turn as a “secret” tryout saw 54 college athletes competing for coveted WWE contracts. Although WWE has yet to officially reveal the selected participants, a notable name has surfaced from the shadows. The Rockford Register Star has confirmed that former Syracuse defensive lineman, Josh Black, has secured a WWE contract following the tryouts held in Detroit, Michigan.

Josh Black, who initially harbored dreams of pursuing a career in the National Football League (NFL), has taken a remarkable detour into the realm of WWE. After being released by the New Orleans Saints just before the kickoff of the 2022 NFL season, Black embarked on a new trajectory that has proven to be successful. WWE recently extended a three-year development deal to the former footballer, with the contract expected to arrive in his mailbox within a week.

“I waited and waited [for a call after the tryout]; but it was so worth the wait,” Black shared, reflecting on the anticipation. The life-altering offer left him somewhat astonished, leading to a moment of surreal disbelief. “I was a little struck. It was one of those moments, where you are like ‘Is this really happening?'”

Josh Black transitioning to wrestling

Following the contract signing, the 25-year-old athlete will soon find himself relocating to Orlando, Florida – home to the prestigious WWE Performance Center. Here, he will immerse himself in rigorous professional wrestling training, all in pursuit of transforming into the next WWE Superstar.

“I just hope it’s something that sticks for me. It’s so much fun,” Black shared his aspirations. He’s eager to seize the opportunity to present his authentic self to the world, expressing uncontainable enthusiasm for the journey ahead. “This is going to be my time to showcase who I am. I can’t wait to show the world who I am — and what I can do, baby.”

As the WWE SummerSlam secret tryout unravels its unexpected gem, the transition of Josh Black from a football field to the wrestling ring highlights the diverse paths that athletes can carve for themselves. With his sights set on embracing the exhilarating world of WWE, Black embarks on a new adventure that promises to captivate audiences and potentially shape the trajectory of his future.

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