The mainstream seems to have a hard time taking professional wrestling seriously. Do you feel that wrestling is a hindrance to your success in the musical field and to be taken seriously?
I can see what you mean by that. Wrestling is a unique industry in itself because we are live performers. We have one take to get it right, to tell the story, and make it incredible. But, because it's sports entertainment, it doesn’t really fall into acting, theatre, or sports. When in reality it’s a beautiful blend of all three.
I can also see how people may not originally take me seriously, whether it’s their perception of wrestling or the fact that I’m crossing over from another industry. But I would hope, and pray that when they hear my music, their opinions would change. The fact is that music and wrestling are two totally different passions and parts of my life that I love equally with all my heart. I also recognize that had I not been fortunate enough to have made the name I have for myself in the wrestling industry, I wouldn’t have been able to meet and do all these amazing things in the music industry. So I think it’s a blessing for all aspects of my careers.
In TNA, you have guys like Hulk Hogan and Sting that still show up and take the stage. There have been continual complaints that they along with others of that generation don’t want to give up the spotlight and sort of railroad other talent. Have you encountered this sort of thing from any of the more notable male wrestlers and how do you get beyond it if you have?
I find this so disheartening. People love to complain as much as they love to make excuses for their own shortcomings. The truth is, if and when you are given an opportunity, and you completely own that moment, then you cannot be denied. The fact is the reason why we don’t have as many stars today as we did then is fear. Fear to break the mold.... to be something different.... to be you!
The world doesn’t want another Hulk Hogan, The Rock or Stone Cold, because we already have them, and they will live forever in our hearts and through history. We want.... We need the stars of TODAY, that people connect with TODAY, not this cookie cutter mold of what they think a wrestler is supposed to be. Generic trunks and a great body are a dime a dozen.... personality and character is where you make your way! When you dare to break the mold, when you dare to be you, with respect yet no reservations or excuses, that is when you will find your way.
TNA really has an old school feel to it. Is there less scripting.... more leeway with your character, your interviews and so on with this organization?
Yes and No. I have always been given a fair amount of creative control in all my characters. I feel that I made it a point to talk with the writers and try to make it all the best I could. The thing is when you are performing, you are the one that has to go out there and say or do these things. And if it comes off as unnatural or forced then it will never work.
The only way to avoid that is to make it your own, which I’ve always made it a point to do. Whether I was successful in most of it is one's opinion. I have tons of respect for all the writers and the creative side of the business. But I can’t do their job. Just as I don’t expect them to try to do mine. It's a mutual respect for the sake of the show as a whole and the story you’re trying to tell. We may not always see eye to eye but we always find a way.... and hopefully the right way.... To make it spectacular!
