Who is Brady Booker (Bodhi Hayward)? The WWE NXT Star Cast on Survivor 51
Brady Booker, best known to WWE fans as Bodhi Hayward — the long-haired, energetic member of the beloved Chase U stable — is heading to Survivor 51.
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Join NowThe 26-year-old professional wrestler from LaSalle, Illinois, brings serious athletic credentials, charisma, and in-ring toughness to the beaches of Fiji in one of the most exciting casting decisions for the upcoming season.
Wrestling fans who loved his Chase U run and ROH/independent work will root for him, while Survivor fans get a legitimate physical threat with college football background and pro wrestling stamina.
From Football Field to WWE: Early Life and Path to Wrestling
Brady Booker was born in LaSalle, Illinois. He played college football as a D1 linebacker at the University of South Dakota, where he also majored in political science. His athletic foundation — size, speed, and toughness — made the transition to professional wrestling a natural one.
He trained under notable names including Billy Gunn and QT Marshall before signing with WWE in August 2021 as part of the Performance Center recruiting class.
Brady Booker as Bodhi Hayward in his classic Chase U look
Bodhi Hayward in NXT: The Chase U Era
Booker debuted on NXT as Bodhi Hayward, one of the original “super students” in Andre Chase’s eccentric Chase University stable alongside Thea Hail.
The faction became one of NXT’s most entertaining and memorable storylines in 2022, blending comedy, heart, and surprisingly solid wrestling.
Key highlights of his Chase U run:
- Part of the core trio with Andre Chase and Thea Hail
- Involved in multi-person tag matches and chaotic university-themed segments
- Famous for the “FRATliner” and energetic babyface personality
- Graduated from “Andre Chase University” in memorable on-screen moments
His time in WWE was short but impactful — he was released in November 2022 along with several other talents.
Bodhi Hayward hyping up the crowd during his Chase U days
Post-WWE Career: ROH, AEW Dark, and Independent Scene
After leaving WWE, Booker returned to his real name Brady Booker. He has competed on:
- AEW Dark
- Ring of Honor (ROH) tapings (including recent post-Survivor filming matches)
- Various independent promotions
At 6’3″ and around 240 lbs, he uses a powerful style with football-inspired moves like the three-point stance chop block.
Brady Booker on Survivor 51: Athletic Edge and Strategy Potential
Survivor 51 (filmed in Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands, set to premiere late 2026) features Booker as one of approximately 20-21 castaways. The pro wrestler joins a diverse cast that includes actors, influencers, and everyday heroes.
Why he could dominate:
- Physical dominance — Former D1 linebacker + pro wrestler = elite challenge performer
- Stamina & toughness — Years of taking bumps and high-impact athleticism
- Social game — Charismatic “good guy” personality from Chase U could help build alliances
- Strategic mind — Political science background + wrestling psychology
Wrestling fans know Booker can “sell” and perform under pressure, skills that translate perfectly to Survivor’s social and physical demands.
Personal Life and Off-Screen Vibes
Booker resides in Orlando, Florida. He remains active on social media (@bradybooker_ on Instagram), sharing training, travel, and wrestling content. His positive, energetic demeanor that made him a fan favorite in Chase U should serve him well on the island.
Career Highlights Table
| Year | Promotion / Project | Role / Gimmick | Notable Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021–2022 | WWE NXT | Bodhi Hayward | Original Chase U member |
| 2022–Present | ROH / Independents | Brady Booker | Active competitor |
| 2022+ | AEW Dark | Brady Booker | Multiple appearances |
| 2026 | Survivor 51 | Himself | Reality TV castaway |
Why Wrestling Fans and Survivor Fans Should Root for Brady Booker
From “Andre Chase University” graduate to potential Sole Survivor — Brady Booker’s journey is pure underdog gold. His combination of size, athleticism, and likeable personality makes him a unique threat in Survivor 51.
Whether he uses wrestling psychology to navigate alliances or powers through challenges with his football/wrestling background, Booker is poised to deliver must-watch moments.
Follow Brady Booker on Instagram @bradybooker_ for updates.
Is Brady Booker (Bodhi Hayward) on Survivor 51?
Yes — he is a confirmed/rumored cast member for the season filming in Fiji.
What is Brady Booker known for in WWE?
His run as Bodhi Hayward in the popular Chase U stable on NXT.
Has any other wrestler been on Survivor?
Yes, including John Morrison (Johnny TV) and the late Ashley Massaro.
Survivor 51 is shaping up to be epic — wrestling fans, get ready to cheer on Bodhi Hayward!
