League: WWE Sport: Wrestling Country: United States Category: Coaching

Andre Chase discusses unexpected WWE TV debut after coaching role

Wrestling Inc • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 5:00 PM

Last updated Jul 4, 2026

Andre Chase discusses unexpected WWE TV debut after coaching role

Summary

Former WWE NXT star Andre Chase revealed on Duke Hudson's YouTube channel that he was initially hired to serve as a coach at the WWE Performance Center, not as a performer. Despite being told he would not appear on television, Shawn Michaels noticed Chase's in-ring work and pushed for his on-screen debut, which occurred shortly after. Chase, who created the 'Andre Chase University' gimmick, explained how he transformed his character during a transitional phase in NXT. He discussed the challenges of finding his identity in the new environment and the feedback that shaped his persona.

Source Links

Wrestling Inc

Key Details

•Chase was originally brought in solely as a coach at WWE Performance Center.
•Shawn Michaels advocated for Chase's transition to an on-screen character.
•Chase created the 'Andre Chase University' gimmick during this transition.
•He initially accepted a lower-paying role to get his foot in the door.
•Chase's wrestling development took place in a shifting NXT.

Latest Updates

5:00 PMWrestling Inc — Former WWE Star Andre Chase Was Brought In To Be A Coach Before He Was Put On TV

What they're saying

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Former "WWE NXT" star Andre Chase explained on Duke Hudson's YouTube channel that he was only ever brought in to be a coach at the Performance Center.
— Wrestling Incby staff@wrestlinginc.com (Daisy Ruth)

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