On top of what kjh posted earlier, WWE put out a press release detailing the big new concept. Here's the meat of it:
World Wrestling Entertainment(R) and Syfy today announced the next generation of reality television with the debut of WWE NXT, Tuesday, February 23, 2010 at 10:00 PM ET/PT on Syfy.
WWE NXT is a hybrid live event/reality show featuring eight well-known, popular WWE Superstars ("Pros") mentoring eight WWE "Rookies." These Rookies, who are learning the ropes, are athletes who epitomize pop culture and personify strong attributes -- they are opinionated and aggressive -- which means inherent conflict between Rookies and other Rookies, conflict between Rookies and Pros, as well as, conflict between Pros and Pros. The trials and tribulations of the WWE NXT cast ensure action-packed, innovative entertainment -- WWE Style.
"Once again, WWE will bring something entirely new to the television landscape as WWE meets reality TV," said Vince McMahon, Chairman and CEO, World Wrestling Entertainment. "As we introduce this brand new franchise exclusively on Syfy, WWE NXT will have a completely different look and feel from our other WWE television programming."
"Syfy is excited to continue our partnership with WWE, Vince and his team with this innovative live event/reality show," said Syfy President Dave Howe. "This is a unique combination of heart-stopping entertainment and gritty behind-the-scenes reality. The NXT Rookies take the challenge of our new tagline 'Imagine Greater' to heart as they embark on their ultimate dream quest to be the next generation of revered heroes and champions in the fantastic arena of the WWE."
A certain website that I refuse to name for spyware disseminating reasons is reporting that the full roster of "Rookies" (developmental talent from Florida Championship Wrestling) will be:
- Joe Hennig (Curt's son)
- Brett DiBiase (Son of Ted Sr./brother of Ted Jr.)
- Daniel Bryan ("American Dragon" Bryan Danielson)
- Kaval (Low-Ki/Senshi)
- Justin Angel (The current Florida Championship Wrestling Champion)
- Skip Sheffield
- Darren Young
- Heath Slater
- Michael Tarver
The "Pros" haven't been reported yet. While it seems like they would want bigger stars in those roles to boost the ratings, it wouldn't shock me if the veteran talent from the ECW roster may be involved since they were specifically slotted in ECW to teach younger wrestlers.
It's certainly has potential, and Tough Enough did pretty well in terms of TV ratings, so NXT should be interesting to follow.