WWE and NXT will be represented at the 2016 Summer Olympics with NXT developmental wrestler Adrian Jaoude, who will be representing his country of Brazil in the freestyle wrestling competition.
Jaoude has been part of NXT since October of last year and was part of the new group of recruits that also included some Tough Enough competitors. He was named Best Brazilian Wrestler in the junior category in 2000 and the senior category in 2005, 2006, 2007, 2010, and 2012.
“Adrian’s come into the group and his natural ability has shone through,” NXT coach Robbie Brookside told WWE.COM. “It’s still very early in his career, but thus far, he’s come in and picked things up – footwork, balance, attitude, application and holds. He’s got a great appreciation and understanding of what it’s all about and puts it to great use.”
WWE Performance Center strength and conditioning coach Matt Wichlinski is helping the Brazilian to get in perfect shape before the Olympics. Wichlinski praised Jaoude’s work ethic, a sentiment echoed by NXT head coach Matt Bloom.
“It’s kind of breathtaking,” Brookside added. “I think it’s a great thing for everyone down here to turn around and go, ‘One of us is going to the Olympics.’ It’s not very often you can say that.”
