WWE announces latest Performance Center class.
Female standouts Scarlett Bordeaux, Shotzi Blackheart, and Indi Hartwell along with referee Stephon Smith are the latest additions to the WWE Performance Center. Squared Circle Sirens first reported the signings of Bordeaux, Blackheart, and Hartwell over the last couple of months.
Four new recruits have reported for training at the WWE Performance Center, strengthening the ranks of WWE’s training facility in Orlando, Fla. The latest group to report includes three independent women’s wrestling standouts and a referee.
Chicago’s Elizabeth Chihaia – aka Scarlett Bordeaux – has made quite the name for herself in America and abroad. The self-proclaimed “smokeshow” has been a standout for promotions like Mexico’s AAA, Ring of Honor and Ohio Valley Wrestling.
Ashley Urbanski, known on the independent scene as Shotzi Blackheart, is renowned for her fierce, in-your-face style. Fans will recognize Urbanski from her standout performance in a No Disqualification Match at EVOLVE’s 10th Anniversary Special that aired on WWE Network. She was presented her WWE contract by NXT General Manager William Regal last month at an EVOLVE show in Atlanta, Ga.
Australia’s Samantha De Martin, also known as “Impressive” Indi Hartwell, has been just that during her time on the indies. The 22-year-old has cited Bayley and Sasha Banks’ epic battles in NXT as her inspiration in pursuing a career inside the squared circle. She’s racked up titles in her home country and for promotions like SHIMMER.
Referee Stephon Smith rounds out the group of newcomers. Smith, a Baltimore native, started out as an in-ring competitor before transitioning to donning the stripes. He’s a graduate of Ohio Valley Wrestling and most recently officiated for EVOLVE Wrestling before joining the PC.
