I’ve always prided myself on being the very best and my performances speak for themselves. Who would have thought at 47 years of age, I would still be as good as I’ve ever been (If you don’t believe me, watch the next 5 episodes of IMPACT wrestling on PopTV. Vs Galloway, Vs Roode, Vs Lashley)! That’s a credit to the man upstairs. HE has truly blessed me.
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my career, as an Olympic Wrestler and as a professional wrestler. The experiences that I have had have exceeded all of my expectations and I’ve learned so much over the years. I absolutely love it…it’s who I am.
So where do I go from here? I’m not sure, but one thing that I AM sure of, is that I have a lot to offer to the youth, in both amateur and pro wrestling.
If I were a young wrestler, or an aspiring wrestler, and wanted to learn how to be better, I’d watch MY matches, from the beginning to the end. Watch my technique, the psychology and the fire I impose upon my opponents.
I love all aspects of wrestling, the training, the competing, the performing. If you don’t have a passion for it, then DON’T do it. Life is too short to go through punishment without having the passion it takes to be a successful wrestler. If you want to do it only for the money, then DON’T do it. Money alone is not worth the bumps and bruises, or aches and pains that go with it.
Would I do it again? Yes! Would I change a few things? Yes! One thing that I would change is the time during my career that I became addicted to the pain meds that I was taking for my injuries. I’m ashamed of some of my actions during that time. So, sit down and think about about the sacrifice of your body and time away from loved ones before you jump into wrestling.
I’m still healthy. I feel pretty good mentally, physically, and spiritually…for that, I’m thankful. Will I wrestle again? Maybe. Do I feel fulfilled about my career? Yes I do!!!!!
So my advice to any and all of you…..LOVE what you do. Have a PASSION for it that makes you feel like you’re having a love affair. Always shoot for the stars, go for the GOLD, and be the best that you can be. It’s what it’s all about. It’s damn true!!!!
