TEMPE — Former Arizona State fullback Case Hatch is continuing his athletic journey off the football field and in the squared circle.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Jan 14, 2023; Orlando, FL, USA; Team Aina linebacker Bradon Bouyer-Randle (34) of the Uconn Huskies tackles Team Kai tight end Case Hatch (24) of the Arizona State Sun Devils during the second half in the 2023 Hula Bowl at UCF FBC Mortgage Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Storry-USA TODAY Sports
Hatch, a Gilbert native who attended Perry High School, debuted on WWE’s NXT on Tuesday as Tate Wilder. Hatch has been part of WWE’s developmental system for a few years, signing through the organization’s NIL program, which has helped him transition from football to professional wrestling.
The debut has only highlighted the broader trend within WWE of recruiting former college athletes from across the country for a shot at changing career paths. The company has invested heavily in its systems to convert these players into wrestlers, while athletes gain a potential career after college sports.
TATE WILDER HAS ARRIVED!! 😎
What a CRAZY night!! pic.twitter.com/hojc3q3WKK
— WWE (@WWE) April 29, 2026
Arizona State fullback Case Hatch (54) during the spring practice game on Feb. 28, 2019, at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Ariz.
Asu Spring Football Practice Game 2019
Hatch is only one of many, but one with deep Arizona ties, who has made his way through the system and made his televised debut on NXT. For WWE to pick up on Hatch’s strength and ability to potentially become a full-time wrestler means his development at ASU has prepared him for these moments.
With limited spots in professional sports, many athletes are left to explore other options to carry over their experience. WWE has increasingly become a top option for these athletes, and now not only has a Sun Devil developed enough to take his talents to WWE, but also someone who has called the Valley home.
ASU FB Case Hatch (44) blocks LB Eric Gentry (9) during spring football practice in Tempe, Ariz. March 28, 2021.
Asu Spring Football
As Hatch begins his WWE career in NXT, his journey showcases both the unpredictability of post-college sports and the expanding range of opportunities available for athletes to pursue outside traditional paths.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
‘He’s our centerpiece’: Suns GM Brian Gregory reinforces Devin Booker’s importance to the club
