The wrestling world’s pipeline from independent promotions to WWE continues to evolve, but not every standout performer makes the immediate jump to sports entertainment’s biggest stage. Luke Jacobs, the reigning PROGRESS Men’s Champion, discovered this reality firsthand after participating in WWE’s March tryouts in London.
WWE’s London Tryout Camp Draws European Talent
WWE’s latest talent evaluation camp took place in London during March, strategically timed ahead of WrestleMania season. The tryouts specifically targeted European and British independent wrestling talent, reflecting the company’s ongoing international expansion efforts.
The timing wasn’t coincidental. With NXT Europe launching later this year, WWE has been actively scouting the continent’s wrestling scene for fresh faces and proven performers. Multiple wrestlers from various European promotions received invitations to showcase their abilities.
The PROGRESS Champion’s WWE Audition
Jacobs entered the tryouts as one of the most recognizable names in attendance. His current reign as PROGRESS Men’s Champion has solidified his reputation across the UK wrestling circuit. The champion even received additional WWE exposure when he appeared as a security guard during SmackDown’s Barcelona broadcast.
This cameo role suggested WWE already had Jacobs on their radar before the formal tryout process began. Security guard appearances often serve as unofficial auditions for wrestlers seeking WWE opportunities.
Impressive Performance Doesn’t Guarantee Contract
According to Fightful Select, Jacobs delivered an outstanding performance during the London evaluations. Sources described his tryout as massively impressive, placing him among the camp’s top performers alongside Goldenboy Santos.
Despite these glowing reviews from WWE personnel, Jacobs received disappointing news during PROGRESS’ Super Strong Style 16 weekend. The company informed him that no immediate contract offer would be forthcoming.
Future Opportunities Remain on the Table
While the initial outcome wasn’t what Jacobs hoped for, sources indicate WWE hasn’t closed the door entirely. The company reportedly plans to give him another evaluation opportunity in the future, suggesting his tryout performance created lasting positive impressions.
This “wait and see” approach has become increasingly common as WWE manages its expanding roster across multiple brands. With NXT Europe still in development, timing may play a crucial role in future signing decisions.
The Bigger Picture for European Wrestling
Jacobs’ situation reflects WWE’s current approach to international talent acquisition. Multiple wrestlers from the London tryouts have reportedly secured contracts, indicating the company is actively building its European presence ahead of NXT Europe’s launch.
The PROGRESS Champion’s experience demonstrates that even impressive tryout performances don’t guarantee immediate success in WWE’s evaluation process. However, his continued championship status and positive WWE feedback suggest his professional wrestling journey may eventually lead to sports entertainment’s biggest stage.
Will Luke Jacobs’ next WWE opportunity prove more fruitful, or will he continue building his legacy in PROGRESS and the independent wrestling scene? His championship reign continues while WWE’s European expansion unfolds.
