WWE continues the march to its inaugural Wrestlepalooza PLE. The historic event to launch the new WWE-ESPN deal isn’t the only major show set for later this month as officials are currently planning a special tribute show, one that will be close to the Chief Content Officer.
Triple H really began to transform WWE’s NXT brand in early 2012. The sixth season of NXT with the reality-competition format was nixed, and WWE parted ways with the FCW developmental territory, then began running the program from Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida. The new NXT was born, the TV series was re-launched as a vehicle for developmental talent. Full Sail hosted the historic NXT Arrival live special on the WWE Network, which led to the popular TakeOver series, and eventually the roster landed a cable TV deal, touted as WWE’s third brand. The rest is history.
WWE and Full Sail University had a strong partnership from 2012-2020. The private for-profit school was founded in 1979, and is accredited to award associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees to students majoring in computer animation, audio/video, design, and business administration. This was a perfect opportunity for WWE as they needed hungry, young people to help with the rise of NXT.
Full Sail’s deal with WWE allowed students to serve as producers and various production roles at NXT TV tapings. While the partnership officially ended in 2020, both sides have continued to benefit. Numerous Full Sail students received real-word job experience working the NXT brand, and went on to use those skills in their careers.
The NXT Arena at Full Sail University only had a capacity of a few hundred, but WWE always drew a hot crowd. The deal between WWE and the school saw merchandise and ticket sales go towards a scholarship fund for enrolled students. The partnership led to around $500,000 in scholarships, usually in increments of $10,000 or $25,000.
Full Sail recently noted that 1,400 students gained hands-on experience through the deal, with some going on to work WrestleMania events and work jobs at the WWE Performance Center. Now the brand is set for a special homecoming on the Full Sail campus, which now includes The Fortress. The 11,200-square-foot venue hosts the Full Sail e-sports team, Armada, and was named a top 10 collegiate e-sports venue. Full Sail also launched its Virtual Production Studio since WWE left.
WWE NXT Homecoming Special Quickly Sells Out
The WWE NXT Homecoming special has been announced for Tuesday, September 16. The event will air live on The CW from Full Sail University in Winter Park, FL. The local start time is 7:30pm ET, but doors open at 6:30pm.
Tickets went on sale and were priced at $52.75 for standing room only, and $78.50 for Golden Circle. The show quickly sold out.
In the lead-up to NXT Homecoming, Full Sail students will participate in a busy day of guest presentations and lectures with NXT Superstars and members of the WWE production team. The two sides will also recognize Full Sail students and Alumni that have helped with NXT production over the years by giving remarks before the show hits the air. A scholarship announcement will also be made.
Triple H expressed excitement over the Homecoming special. WWE’s Chief Content Officer also praised Full Sail in the official announcement.
“Alongside our incredible partners at Full Sail University, we’re coming back to where it all began. NXT returns to Full Sail live,” Triple H said.