UT Track and Field Standout Chandler Hayden Inks with WWE

WWE has recently signed University of Tennesse redshirted sophomore shot putter/hammer thrower Chandler Hayden to its Next In Line (NIL) program, which provides a “clear pathway” for select athletes from collegiate athletics to a company professional wrestling ring.

The nearly 6-foot Hayden joins fourteen other athletes representing 14 universities, seven NCAA conferences and seven sports as new enrollees in the six-month-old program to recruit and develop potential future WWE superstars, according to reports.

This comes on the heels of the NCAA allowing college athletes to earn compensation from their name, image and likeness. 

Hayden chucked a new personal-best of 58.54 meters (192-1) in the hammer throw at the Tennessee Challenge (5/1), ranking her at No. 5 on UT’s all-time list.

Additionally, the Pittsfield, Ill., native threw the 20-pound shot put 20.26 meters (66-5.75 inches) for a new personal best at the Hokie Invitational (1/22), placing herself at No. 3 all time in Tennessee history this past indoor season.

Hayden, who plays the saxophone and ukulele, has the looks and athletic ability to be successful in a square circle someday in the future, that is for sure. But that all hinges on her aptitude to pick up the in-ring skills, as well as being able to shine on the mic and cut a decent promo.

— Jerry Del Priore

Photo: University of Tennessee Athletics.