Post by Icon Lord Sean "Magic" Fiery on Apr 13, 2008 5:44:06 GMT -6
Hotwire Magazine: How are things with your wrestling school, Desert Storm Industries, going?
Ring of Honor Icon Sean "Magic" Fiery: They’re going great, actually. Thanks to the matches some of my students had on Storm, it turned a lot of heads. Wheeler is even being considered for a GZG contract, so that is definitely exciting. It took a while to build up DSI’s credibility, but we’re finally showing a lot of progress. I also have a great team over there helping out. I have to give them a huge brunt of the credit. It’s not MY school… It’s theirs. Without them, these kids wouldn’t be nearly as good as they are. Plus, with my schedule it’s hard to be there as much. Overall, DSI has been a great success and I’m glad that me and my team can help these kids fulfill their dreams.
How has becoming World Heavyweight Champion changed your life lately?
Oh wow… It’s pretty intense. There’s a lot of promoting that goes with the responsibility of being World Heavyweight champ… A lot of press conferences, fan fares, autograph signings, appearances that I have to make at schools or charity events. Don’t take that for complaining, though. This is my life. I love doing this to help the business, be there for the fans, be there for the kids. Even if I weren’t the champion I’d be out there doing it. Even though it’s stressfull, it’s rewarding to be able to reach out to these people who look up to you and idolize you. It’s overwhelming, come to think of it. I don’t see myself as that kind of figure, ya know? But I am, and it’s things like that that make me want to be with this business until I’m on my death bed.
What about your family? Are they bothered by you devoting so much time to GZG?
You’d think they might, huh? But no, I have a great supportive family. They know that this is what I love doing and I’m a happier man in general. I mean, while I was stuck at home during that severe injury, I was kind of gloomy. It was hard to cope with, thinking that my career was over. And Steph basically told me to get off my ass and get back into that ring.
Kind of ironic that she was the one that wanted me to retire because of the dangers involved, but she also saw how much it ate me away. I got to raise Evan for the first few years of his life and now that he’s a bit older I think it was the perfect time to come back. He’s also at the age where the world is starting to come to life and seeing his daddy do all of these things… He loves it. Plus, there’s a lot of times when they travel with me. Especially when we go out of the country. Steph enjoys taking him to see the world, watch him light up… He’ll have a lot of stories to tell when he gets into school.
We don’t see much of your family on the camera, especially Steph. Any reason to that?
I’d rather keep that attention off of them. Steph loved being my manager before I retired, but she was getting pretty stressed out with the schedule and couldn’t handle all of the press. And Evan… I just don’t want him to be involved. It’s not necessary. I like to have my privacy, especially for my family. Once I’m done with the GZW side of my life for the day, I want the camera’s gone. I want to be with my family, I want to be there for the kids at DSI, I want to just enjoy my life without the world seeing and knowing my every move. It kind of irritates some of the GZG producers, thinking my life is one big open book, but I’m not going to drag my personal life into the business. It’s not worth it.
So, it’s well documented that you’re a huge baseball fan?
Definitely. Everyone knows I love the Diamondbacks. I’ll still back them up, even in their hardest times. That’s what a true supporter and fan does… Even if they’re not having the greatest season, you still cheer them on. And fortunately, they’re doing great this year. It’s nice to go out and watch them play, because they’re such a talented team with so much depth. I actually think this is the best lineup they’ve had since 2002.
Who’s your favorite player?
Ouch, that’s a tough choice. I’d say Brandon Webb. The guy is just devastating when he pitches. The movement he has and the dominance is uncanny. I can’t believe what he’s done for the team and the impact he’s made over the years. He’s a likeable, down to earth guy, too. I’m also growing some new favorites like Reynolds, Upton, Young, Byrnes, Owings, and Haren. And then you got the good ol’ veteran, Randy Johnson. Need I say more?
Any other interests or hobbies that you do in your spare time?
I have spare time? That’s news to me! I don’t have many hobbies, really. I play baseball with some friends every week or so. I also catch a lot of concerts and whatnot… Usually get autographs from bands. I’ve gotten drum sticks and symbols, guitar picks, setlists. I’ve got a whole game room with all of these cool concert experiences I’ve had over the walls.
That’s interesting. What’s been your favorite concert moment?
Hmmm. I’ve had a lot. It’s not secret at all that Tool is one of my favorite bands, so seeing them is always an unforgettable experience. Their atmosphere is awe-inspiring and… No one can match it. Maynard even lives in Arizona, so we’ve bumped into each other a time or two here. Also, Godsmack was a great concert. Sully invited me to come up and play guitar and do some guest vocals. Their double drum routine is so kickass. I’ve seen it twice already and it didn’t get old at all. He’s really a great front man for all he does during the show.
So you play guitar?
I guess I could have mentioned that when you asked about my hobbies. Yeah, I play some acoustic guitar. I’m not good at it, but it keeps me relaxed sometimes, just strumming along. Evan loves it when I play for him. Especially when it’s bed time and he asks me and Steph to do a little duo. I wouldn’t play for many people other than that, though… It’s pretty embarrassing.
Do you still talk to any old friends from GZW’s past?
Of course. Nathan [Williams] and I hook up every now and then. I also keep in contact with Clive [Eclipse], Basildon, William [Billy Bond], Crystal, Jason [Makavelli], Sho [Murakame], Samuel [Knight]… Just to name a few. Not to mention some people that are still around. Albert [Wuchie], Jung-Lei [Hiroshuma], Alex [Hunt], Memphis [Pike]. So, yeah, it’s always good to catch up with old friends.
Are you anything in real life like you are on television?
Very much so. GZW doesn’t really make me change much from my usual personality traits. I mean, there’s obviously been times where I’ve had to stretch beyond what I’m like outside of the ring, like when I’ve played a heel and delved into the darker side of myself. It was pretty difficult to tap into, because it does mess with your head sometimes. I also got a bit carried away here and there, bringing some of my heel personalities into real life and I had to basically be reminded that I don’t need to put on a character outside of GZW. Not that I’d ever consider myself a ‘character’. I’m pretty true to myself inside and outside of the business.
One of my favorite parts of my whole routine is when I get to do comedy spots. I love being a jokester… Love making people laugh. I’m just as sarcastic inside GZW as I am outside. I get a lot of crap about it, but whatever, ya know? It’s who I am. But I also feel that I have an image to uphold on TV. I’d like to be a good role model in some instances… Someone that kids--and my son--can look up to. I know I’m not a perfect role model like Billy Bond or Nathaniel Davis, but I do what I can to make sure that there are lessons to be taught to children.
Like hitting people with sledgehammers?
Hey now! Leave the smartass comments up to me, eh? Seriously, though, I’d never claim myself as a prime example of what to be as far as a character standpoint goes. I would never promote hitting fellow classmates with hammers or running them over with trucks or what have you. All I promote is being true to yourself, fighting for your beliefs and not letting people stop you from accomplishing your goals and dreams. And, of course, outside of the ring I do what I can be a role model. I do a lot to help society and donate to charity and try little by little to make a difference in the world. If kids see that then it sets a good example on what they should be doing.
Are you worried that your son, Even, might watch GZW and think it’s ok to be like his dad?
Not really. We don’t let him watch the shows a lot of the time. I know that I’m not a perfect example for him to be watching. I’d rather him know his dad for how I am outside of the ring and what I do with my success to help others. I know that there are times where I push the boundaries and I’m asked to do some pretty twisted things, so we try to make sure that he only watches the more peaceful times. Especially if I have a more extreme match. I don’t really want my son to be seeing me get tortured and made into a bloody mess. He asks where I get all of these scars, cuts, bruises, marks… “Ouchies”. It’s hard to explain to him sometimes, but I’d never let him witness it. I usually just tell him I got in a fight with the boogeyman that he thought was under his bed and that I gave him a good beating. He gets a kick out of it. Really, whatever keeps him from thinking the environment I wrestle in at times is “OK”.
And what if he becomes a wrestler some day?
It is a family business, afterall. I’d rather him not be a wrestler, to be honest. I would love if he managed to get into the business and be a sideline kind of face. If something would ever happen to him I’d never forgive myself for introducing him into the business. But, ya know, if he does become a wrestler then I’ll support him, just like my dad did. If it’s what he loves to do… If it’s his passion… Then I won’t stop him. I will warn him of the horrors, the risks, the toll it takes on you, but when you have a dream and you want it more than anything, then there’s no way I’d keep him from that.
Ever thought about a reality TV show?
That’s absolutely a NEVER! I’ve been offered that deal so many times, but each time it’s a no-questions-asked “not a chance”. It’s really such a stupid idea, I can’t begin to describe what I think of all of these stars that come out and air their dirty laundry all over TV. It kills and ruins families, actually. I’d never let that happen. The only one that ever intrigued me was an offer to do a reality series on Desert Storm Industries… I think it would give a great insight on how young kids develop and break their way into the business. But it’s too much work for me to take on and I’d rather just keep everything to myself. These experiences are mine and mine alone… Most I don’t want to share with the world. Wrestling is enough of a “reality” TV show, so I think I have my full share of cameras.
Any chance you’ll do movies or guest star in TV series?
Pfft, no way. I would never abandon wrestling for Hollywood. I’m not a Bond, afterall.
Ouch. A bit bitter there?
Naw, William knows I mean no harm. I just think he had a great thing going in wrestling and it disappointed me to see him give GZW up for the big screen. But whatever works for him, whatever he thinks he should be doing and what he loves to do… More power to him.
Looking back at the past, now… What’s been some of your favorite moments?
Wow, that’s a long list. Obviously, winning the World Heavyweight Championship here at Anniversary Armageddon was a great achievement for me. People thought I was done, that I couldn’t perform like I used to, or that I couldn’t carry this business on my shoulders anymore. But I proved them wrong and I’m continuing to prove them wrong. Also, winning the title the first time 7 years ago at Heatwave… It was such a magical moment--no pun intended. Then there’s my days in EWO, winning the first ever Light-Heavyweight Championship, feuding with Eric Montair [EZ Money then], which also reoccurred from time to time in GZW. And my battles with Nate [Nathan Williams] and Pimp Bizkit were always a blast. There’s two other moments I hold dear to my heart as well… One of them is Lord of the Coliseum when I made it to the finals with John Taylor. It was such a fun match--a classic--and I was glad to be apart of it. John’s such a great worker and a great wrestler… One of the best opponents that I’ve ever graced that ring with. I feel comfortable and safe with him… Also, he pushes me to up my game and that’s what should be done more in this business. The other moment is getting inducted into the Ring of Honor. I hold that accolade high on my achievements. It’s an honor to be put on a list with some of the greatest men in this business.
What about your retirement match? Was that difficult?
Ah, yes, I forgot to mention that one. I guess because it was a horrifying revelation for me that it was probably my last match. But it was a great match. There’s a reason I chose Justin to be my opponent, because I knew he’d put on a show that would send me off reflecting the heart that I have as a competitor. And he did just that. I might have lost, but I proved a lot that night. I poured everything I had left into that match, and Justin gave me a great match. Shame it didn’t take, eh?
What about now? What are you excited about that’s happening presently?
There’s a lot going on now that I can’t wait to develop and evolve. Things with Jerry Cross have been a blast and we work great together. I’d love to get that taken off the ground again. Seeing the response from the stuff leading up to and into Aftermath was just overwhelming. I think we can make a lot of things happen that will catch a lot of people’s attention. Also, Leon has been fun as well. We have such a heated rivalry going on that it is making for a great feud. I’d love to delve deeper into that and work some more with him. He’s an interesting character and someone I’ve looked forward to working with. Same with Zachary, Bane, Kandi, Kid Kaos, even… Man, the list could go on with the roster we have. There’s so many people I want to work with, but unfortunately I can’t do it all at once, so it will take time.
Anyone that you wish you could feud with that isn’t around anymore?
There’s a few. I would have loved to work with Vernon. He had a lot to offer this business and it’s a shame that he’s not around anymore. We would have come up with so many fun and interesting angles. Also, Seth Raide. We had a chance to do a little promo together at Anniversary Armageddon and it got a great response. The two of us had great chemistry and bounced off each other so well. He gives me chills sometimes, and the way he can work a crowd in such a “bad guy” way is scary. Actually, I think it’s natural. He’s not praised as a very approachable man even outside of the ring. And I’d definitely like to do something with Justin again. There’s definitely a never dull moment when the two of us are around each other.
Any regrets?
Yes. Yes, definitely. I think we all have them.
Care to elaborate?
I’d rather not. They’re in the past and I don’t like bringing up things I’m not proud of. However, they may be regrets, but I wouldn’t take them back, no way. They’ve helped mold me into the man I am today.
What else is there to look forward to in your future?
It’s hard to say. I never thought I’d be able to wrestle again, but here I am. So, I think it’s hard to say what the future holds. I take everything one day at a time. I plan to wrestle for a long time now, as long as my body can take it. In a few years I might be on a more strict schedule, with Evan starting school and all. I want to be there more when he does. But I’ll always keep myself involved in the business one way or another. I’d even love to be a commentator once I retire. I loved being in that booth on Storm. Maybe even be a manager. Other than that, I don’t know what to tell ya. I’m going to continue entertaining fans until I die. It’s what I enjoy and will never give up on. I honestly can’t wait to see how things unfold here in the next few years. But for the time being I’m going to live for the moment… For the now. I’ve been given the great opportunity to represent GZW as the World Heavyweight Champion and I couldn't ask for anything more rewarding. If my career ended right now, I’d be satisfied…
But I’m not ready to retire… Again… Not even close.
GZW2K1 Hotwire Magazine
Copyright 2008
Ring of Honor Icon Sean "Magic" Fiery: They’re going great, actually. Thanks to the matches some of my students had on Storm, it turned a lot of heads. Wheeler is even being considered for a GZG contract, so that is definitely exciting. It took a while to build up DSI’s credibility, but we’re finally showing a lot of progress. I also have a great team over there helping out. I have to give them a huge brunt of the credit. It’s not MY school… It’s theirs. Without them, these kids wouldn’t be nearly as good as they are. Plus, with my schedule it’s hard to be there as much. Overall, DSI has been a great success and I’m glad that me and my team can help these kids fulfill their dreams.
How has becoming World Heavyweight Champion changed your life lately?
Oh wow… It’s pretty intense. There’s a lot of promoting that goes with the responsibility of being World Heavyweight champ… A lot of press conferences, fan fares, autograph signings, appearances that I have to make at schools or charity events. Don’t take that for complaining, though. This is my life. I love doing this to help the business, be there for the fans, be there for the kids. Even if I weren’t the champion I’d be out there doing it. Even though it’s stressfull, it’s rewarding to be able to reach out to these people who look up to you and idolize you. It’s overwhelming, come to think of it. I don’t see myself as that kind of figure, ya know? But I am, and it’s things like that that make me want to be with this business until I’m on my death bed.
What about your family? Are they bothered by you devoting so much time to GZG?
You’d think they might, huh? But no, I have a great supportive family. They know that this is what I love doing and I’m a happier man in general. I mean, while I was stuck at home during that severe injury, I was kind of gloomy. It was hard to cope with, thinking that my career was over. And Steph basically told me to get off my ass and get back into that ring.
Kind of ironic that she was the one that wanted me to retire because of the dangers involved, but she also saw how much it ate me away. I got to raise Evan for the first few years of his life and now that he’s a bit older I think it was the perfect time to come back. He’s also at the age where the world is starting to come to life and seeing his daddy do all of these things… He loves it. Plus, there’s a lot of times when they travel with me. Especially when we go out of the country. Steph enjoys taking him to see the world, watch him light up… He’ll have a lot of stories to tell when he gets into school.
We don’t see much of your family on the camera, especially Steph. Any reason to that?
I’d rather keep that attention off of them. Steph loved being my manager before I retired, but she was getting pretty stressed out with the schedule and couldn’t handle all of the press. And Evan… I just don’t want him to be involved. It’s not necessary. I like to have my privacy, especially for my family. Once I’m done with the GZW side of my life for the day, I want the camera’s gone. I want to be with my family, I want to be there for the kids at DSI, I want to just enjoy my life without the world seeing and knowing my every move. It kind of irritates some of the GZG producers, thinking my life is one big open book, but I’m not going to drag my personal life into the business. It’s not worth it.
So, it’s well documented that you’re a huge baseball fan?
Definitely. Everyone knows I love the Diamondbacks. I’ll still back them up, even in their hardest times. That’s what a true supporter and fan does… Even if they’re not having the greatest season, you still cheer them on. And fortunately, they’re doing great this year. It’s nice to go out and watch them play, because they’re such a talented team with so much depth. I actually think this is the best lineup they’ve had since 2002.
Who’s your favorite player?
Ouch, that’s a tough choice. I’d say Brandon Webb. The guy is just devastating when he pitches. The movement he has and the dominance is uncanny. I can’t believe what he’s done for the team and the impact he’s made over the years. He’s a likeable, down to earth guy, too. I’m also growing some new favorites like Reynolds, Upton, Young, Byrnes, Owings, and Haren. And then you got the good ol’ veteran, Randy Johnson. Need I say more?
Any other interests or hobbies that you do in your spare time?
I have spare time? That’s news to me! I don’t have many hobbies, really. I play baseball with some friends every week or so. I also catch a lot of concerts and whatnot… Usually get autographs from bands. I’ve gotten drum sticks and symbols, guitar picks, setlists. I’ve got a whole game room with all of these cool concert experiences I’ve had over the walls.
That’s interesting. What’s been your favorite concert moment?
Hmmm. I’ve had a lot. It’s not secret at all that Tool is one of my favorite bands, so seeing them is always an unforgettable experience. Their atmosphere is awe-inspiring and… No one can match it. Maynard even lives in Arizona, so we’ve bumped into each other a time or two here. Also, Godsmack was a great concert. Sully invited me to come up and play guitar and do some guest vocals. Their double drum routine is so kickass. I’ve seen it twice already and it didn’t get old at all. He’s really a great front man for all he does during the show.
So you play guitar?
I guess I could have mentioned that when you asked about my hobbies. Yeah, I play some acoustic guitar. I’m not good at it, but it keeps me relaxed sometimes, just strumming along. Evan loves it when I play for him. Especially when it’s bed time and he asks me and Steph to do a little duo. I wouldn’t play for many people other than that, though… It’s pretty embarrassing.
Do you still talk to any old friends from GZW’s past?
Of course. Nathan [Williams] and I hook up every now and then. I also keep in contact with Clive [Eclipse], Basildon, William [Billy Bond], Crystal, Jason [Makavelli], Sho [Murakame], Samuel [Knight]… Just to name a few. Not to mention some people that are still around. Albert [Wuchie], Jung-Lei [Hiroshuma], Alex [Hunt], Memphis [Pike]. So, yeah, it’s always good to catch up with old friends.
Are you anything in real life like you are on television?
Very much so. GZW doesn’t really make me change much from my usual personality traits. I mean, there’s obviously been times where I’ve had to stretch beyond what I’m like outside of the ring, like when I’ve played a heel and delved into the darker side of myself. It was pretty difficult to tap into, because it does mess with your head sometimes. I also got a bit carried away here and there, bringing some of my heel personalities into real life and I had to basically be reminded that I don’t need to put on a character outside of GZW. Not that I’d ever consider myself a ‘character’. I’m pretty true to myself inside and outside of the business.
One of my favorite parts of my whole routine is when I get to do comedy spots. I love being a jokester… Love making people laugh. I’m just as sarcastic inside GZW as I am outside. I get a lot of crap about it, but whatever, ya know? It’s who I am. But I also feel that I have an image to uphold on TV. I’d like to be a good role model in some instances… Someone that kids--and my son--can look up to. I know I’m not a perfect role model like Billy Bond or Nathaniel Davis, but I do what I can to make sure that there are lessons to be taught to children.
Like hitting people with sledgehammers?
Hey now! Leave the smartass comments up to me, eh? Seriously, though, I’d never claim myself as a prime example of what to be as far as a character standpoint goes. I would never promote hitting fellow classmates with hammers or running them over with trucks or what have you. All I promote is being true to yourself, fighting for your beliefs and not letting people stop you from accomplishing your goals and dreams. And, of course, outside of the ring I do what I can be a role model. I do a lot to help society and donate to charity and try little by little to make a difference in the world. If kids see that then it sets a good example on what they should be doing.
Are you worried that your son, Even, might watch GZW and think it’s ok to be like his dad?
Not really. We don’t let him watch the shows a lot of the time. I know that I’m not a perfect example for him to be watching. I’d rather him know his dad for how I am outside of the ring and what I do with my success to help others. I know that there are times where I push the boundaries and I’m asked to do some pretty twisted things, so we try to make sure that he only watches the more peaceful times. Especially if I have a more extreme match. I don’t really want my son to be seeing me get tortured and made into a bloody mess. He asks where I get all of these scars, cuts, bruises, marks… “Ouchies”. It’s hard to explain to him sometimes, but I’d never let him witness it. I usually just tell him I got in a fight with the boogeyman that he thought was under his bed and that I gave him a good beating. He gets a kick out of it. Really, whatever keeps him from thinking the environment I wrestle in at times is “OK”.
And what if he becomes a wrestler some day?
It is a family business, afterall. I’d rather him not be a wrestler, to be honest. I would love if he managed to get into the business and be a sideline kind of face. If something would ever happen to him I’d never forgive myself for introducing him into the business. But, ya know, if he does become a wrestler then I’ll support him, just like my dad did. If it’s what he loves to do… If it’s his passion… Then I won’t stop him. I will warn him of the horrors, the risks, the toll it takes on you, but when you have a dream and you want it more than anything, then there’s no way I’d keep him from that.
Ever thought about a reality TV show?
That’s absolutely a NEVER! I’ve been offered that deal so many times, but each time it’s a no-questions-asked “not a chance”. It’s really such a stupid idea, I can’t begin to describe what I think of all of these stars that come out and air their dirty laundry all over TV. It kills and ruins families, actually. I’d never let that happen. The only one that ever intrigued me was an offer to do a reality series on Desert Storm Industries… I think it would give a great insight on how young kids develop and break their way into the business. But it’s too much work for me to take on and I’d rather just keep everything to myself. These experiences are mine and mine alone… Most I don’t want to share with the world. Wrestling is enough of a “reality” TV show, so I think I have my full share of cameras.
Any chance you’ll do movies or guest star in TV series?
Pfft, no way. I would never abandon wrestling for Hollywood. I’m not a Bond, afterall.
Ouch. A bit bitter there?
Naw, William knows I mean no harm. I just think he had a great thing going in wrestling and it disappointed me to see him give GZW up for the big screen. But whatever works for him, whatever he thinks he should be doing and what he loves to do… More power to him.
Looking back at the past, now… What’s been some of your favorite moments?
Wow, that’s a long list. Obviously, winning the World Heavyweight Championship here at Anniversary Armageddon was a great achievement for me. People thought I was done, that I couldn’t perform like I used to, or that I couldn’t carry this business on my shoulders anymore. But I proved them wrong and I’m continuing to prove them wrong. Also, winning the title the first time 7 years ago at Heatwave… It was such a magical moment--no pun intended. Then there’s my days in EWO, winning the first ever Light-Heavyweight Championship, feuding with Eric Montair [EZ Money then], which also reoccurred from time to time in GZW. And my battles with Nate [Nathan Williams] and Pimp Bizkit were always a blast. There’s two other moments I hold dear to my heart as well… One of them is Lord of the Coliseum when I made it to the finals with John Taylor. It was such a fun match--a classic--and I was glad to be apart of it. John’s such a great worker and a great wrestler… One of the best opponents that I’ve ever graced that ring with. I feel comfortable and safe with him… Also, he pushes me to up my game and that’s what should be done more in this business. The other moment is getting inducted into the Ring of Honor. I hold that accolade high on my achievements. It’s an honor to be put on a list with some of the greatest men in this business.
What about your retirement match? Was that difficult?
Ah, yes, I forgot to mention that one. I guess because it was a horrifying revelation for me that it was probably my last match. But it was a great match. There’s a reason I chose Justin to be my opponent, because I knew he’d put on a show that would send me off reflecting the heart that I have as a competitor. And he did just that. I might have lost, but I proved a lot that night. I poured everything I had left into that match, and Justin gave me a great match. Shame it didn’t take, eh?
What about now? What are you excited about that’s happening presently?
There’s a lot going on now that I can’t wait to develop and evolve. Things with Jerry Cross have been a blast and we work great together. I’d love to get that taken off the ground again. Seeing the response from the stuff leading up to and into Aftermath was just overwhelming. I think we can make a lot of things happen that will catch a lot of people’s attention. Also, Leon has been fun as well. We have such a heated rivalry going on that it is making for a great feud. I’d love to delve deeper into that and work some more with him. He’s an interesting character and someone I’ve looked forward to working with. Same with Zachary, Bane, Kandi, Kid Kaos, even… Man, the list could go on with the roster we have. There’s so many people I want to work with, but unfortunately I can’t do it all at once, so it will take time.
Anyone that you wish you could feud with that isn’t around anymore?
There’s a few. I would have loved to work with Vernon. He had a lot to offer this business and it’s a shame that he’s not around anymore. We would have come up with so many fun and interesting angles. Also, Seth Raide. We had a chance to do a little promo together at Anniversary Armageddon and it got a great response. The two of us had great chemistry and bounced off each other so well. He gives me chills sometimes, and the way he can work a crowd in such a “bad guy” way is scary. Actually, I think it’s natural. He’s not praised as a very approachable man even outside of the ring. And I’d definitely like to do something with Justin again. There’s definitely a never dull moment when the two of us are around each other.
Any regrets?
Yes. Yes, definitely. I think we all have them.
Care to elaborate?
I’d rather not. They’re in the past and I don’t like bringing up things I’m not proud of. However, they may be regrets, but I wouldn’t take them back, no way. They’ve helped mold me into the man I am today.
What else is there to look forward to in your future?
It’s hard to say. I never thought I’d be able to wrestle again, but here I am. So, I think it’s hard to say what the future holds. I take everything one day at a time. I plan to wrestle for a long time now, as long as my body can take it. In a few years I might be on a more strict schedule, with Evan starting school and all. I want to be there more when he does. But I’ll always keep myself involved in the business one way or another. I’d even love to be a commentator once I retire. I loved being in that booth on Storm. Maybe even be a manager. Other than that, I don’t know what to tell ya. I’m going to continue entertaining fans until I die. It’s what I enjoy and will never give up on. I honestly can’t wait to see how things unfold here in the next few years. But for the time being I’m going to live for the moment… For the now. I’ve been given the great opportunity to represent GZW as the World Heavyweight Champion and I couldn't ask for anything more rewarding. If my career ended right now, I’d be satisfied…
But I’m not ready to retire… Again… Not even close.
GZW2K1 Hotwire Magazine
Copyright 2008
