WWE has officially filed a trademark application for the name Evolve, according to records from the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) on January 30. The filing falls under entertainment services, including professional wrestling events, television programs, and related content.
This move has fueled speculation about WWE’s long-rumored NXT expansion, tentatively known as WWE NXT Evolve. Reports indicate that the project remains in development, with veteran booker Gabe Sapolsky playing a key role. Sapolsky, who previously worked alongside Paul Heyman in ECW and co-founded Ring of Honor (ROH), ran the EVOLVE Wrestling promotion from 2010 until its WWE acquisition in 2020.
WWE NXT Evolve: Still in Development?
According to PWInsider’s Mike Johnson, WWE NXT Evolve remains an active concept but has not been finalized. Independent wrestling talents have reportedly been approached about potential tapings, but no confirmed dates are currently scheduled.
The show is expected to spotlight WWE NIL (Next in Line) athletes and developmental talents, offering a platform for rising stars. However, WWE has yet to make any official announcements regarding its launch.
Sapolsky’s Role and EVOLVE’s Legacy
Gabe Sapolsky’s involvement in the project has garnered attention, given his extensive history in wrestling talent development. After joining WWE as a creative consultant for NXT in 2016, he was briefly released in 2022 before returning later that year. His influence, along with WWE’s control of the EVOLVE brand, could shape the direction of this potential new program.
While there’s no formal confirmation, WWE’s trademark filing suggests movement behind the scenes. Fans will have to stay tuned for further updates on WWE’s evolving plans.