More than a gym: the high-tech laboratory behind professional wrestling

Countries & Cities · Published 13 October 2026 · Updated 25 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: It is a 26,000-square-foot training hub equipped with ultra-slow cameras, sports science facilities, and specialized padded rings. While it functions as a school for 70 wrestlers, this facility has also served as a global television studio and a temporary home for the world's largest wrestling-based broadcasts.

The WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, opened on July 11, 2013, replacing the former Florida Championship Wrestling headquarters in Tampa. The facility is a comprehensive training ecosystem, featuring seven rings—including one specifically padded for high-flying maneuvers—alongside strength and conditioning programs, medical facilities, and production studios. Beyond wrestling, the center hosts training for referees, commentators, and ring announcers, and serves as a rehabilitation site for established main roster performers.

The facility's role expanded significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic. In March 2020, the Orlando center became the primary production hub for flagship programs like Monday Night Raw and Friday Night SmackDown. It even hosted WrestleMania 36, which was moved from Raymond James Stadium to the center's studio hall. During this period, the site was reconfigured into the 'Capitol Wrestling Center' to house the NXT brand, featuring plexiglass dividers and virtual audiences. While the Raw and SmackDown productions eventually moved to the 'ThunderDome' arena setting, the NXT brand's residency in Orlando became permanent.

The infrastructure of the Performance Center is designed for both physical development and media precision. It includes voice-over rooms for practicing promos and advanced editing facilities. The training roster, typically between 65 and 70 individuals, includes everyone from beginners to seasoned independent circuit veterans. The center also conducts invite-only tryouts for athletes from diverse backgrounds, including NCAA and NFL football players. As of 2025, the Orlando site has expanded its programming to include LFG and Evolve.

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