Rey Mysterio

Summary

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What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes

Episode: Rey Mysterio
Date: February 18, 2026
Host: Cody Rhodes
Guest: Rey Mysterio

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Overview

This episode of "What Do You Wanna Talk About?" brings together two generations of wrestling greatness as Cody Rhodes sits down with the legendary Rey Mysterio. Their candid, in-depth conversation journeys through Rey's iconic career, the legacy of lucha libre, wrestling family dynamics, memorable matches and moments, the evolution of wrestling psychology, and personal philosophies behind their sustained success. Long-time fans and newcomers alike gain a rare backstage glimpse into what makes Rey Mysterio a universally respected figure—and the bond between legacy superstars.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Rey’s Legacy and Influence in Wrestling

• Cody introduces Rey as the greatest luchador in history, surpassing even the legendary El Santo (00:50).
• Rey is celebrated for his cross-generational influence: world champion, tag team champion, cruiserweight champion, WWE Hall of Famer, Royal Rumble winner.

Quote:

"I consider the greatest luchador of all time even being bigger than the unbelievable El Santo..."
— Cody Rhodes [00:50]

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2. The Art and Significance of the Mask

• The duo’s conversation opens with Cody praising Rey’s unique and evolving sense of style, especially his iconic masks.
• Discussion of Rey’s favorite mask—the Hall of Fame mask designed like a helmet by his longtime designer, Hayashi, who has crafted Rey’s gear since 1996 (02:54–06:11).
• The culture of gear in Japanese wrestling, gift-giving, and the enduring relationship with his designer.

Quote:

"He came to me with the present. He flew in from Osaka... And he pulled it out. And my masks bend made out of material. This one was like a helmet..."
— Rey Mysterio [02:52]

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3. Stories Behind Iconic Outfits and Matches

• Rey reminisces about his historic “Phantom” suit from Halloween Havoc 1997 against Eddie Guerrero, revealing its inspiration for a unique cocktail (“Desert Phantom”) served during the episode (08:08–09:12).
• Discussion about memorable but challenging costume moments, like his troublesome WrestleMania 21 latex mask (10:00–11:51).

Quote:

"That was one of the masks that I loved. I just struggled throughout that whole match trying to keep it on. It would slip and move."
— Rey Mysterio [11:25]

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4. Tributes and Connections: Eddie Guerrero, Art Barr, and Wrestling Families

• A look at Rey and Dominik’s tribute gear to Eddie Guerrero and Art Barr (“Los Gringos Locos”) at WrestleMania (12:28–13:01).
• Rey’s candid reflection on his close friendship with Art Barr and the limitations of fame “before social media” (13:33–14:12).
• Generational wrestling is a recurring theme—Rey shares his own journey and how relationships, both personal and professional, shaped his career.

Quote:

"Some weird reason, Art and I just got along very well...”
— Rey Mysterio [13:33]

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5. Family Pride: Watching the Next Generation

• Cody shares a touching moment of watching Rey observe his son, Dominik ("Dom"), at a show—comparing this to memories with his own father (17:19–21:21).
• Rey discusses the pride in seeing his children pursue their paths, especially Dom’s rise as a major WWE figure.

Quote:

“Watching you watch him in Boston ... it’s really wild. ... It has to be for you.”
— Cody Rhodes [19:07]

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6. Backstage, Psychology, and Breaking In

• Rey recounts his audition for WCW, trial matches with Dean Malenko, and learning to adapt his style from the fast-paced Lucha libre to the more story-driven American wrestling (23:08–25:43).
• Key lessons from forebears—Dean Malenko’s advice on physical communication in the ring, adapting, and building chemistry.

Quote:

"Dean was just incredible at just putting pieces together and, and I would tell him, I would love to do this. Where can we throw this in?”
— Rey Mysterio [23:40]

• The supportive locker room and mutual admiration among the “cruiserweight class” (Jericho, Dragon, Eddie, etc.) and the emergence of their division as a crucial component of WCW’s success (29:08–31:48).

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7. Lucha Libre’s Next Evolution & Generational Talent

• Discussion about WWE's acquisition of AAA, fan expectations and the enduring essence of Lucha libre (35:25–36:44).
• Rey highlights up-and-coming Luchadors like Hijo del Vikingo, son of Dr. Wagner Jr., Penta, Fenix, and the generational aspect of wrestling in both families and stables (40:25–45:01).
• The challenge of giving advice—should young wrestlers today “do less to mean more,” or push the boundaries like Rey did in his youth? (41:26–42:14)
• The importance of “basing” in lucha (the art of being the foundation for high-flying moves), with Cody crediting Rey for teaching crucial fundamentals (84:04).

Quote:

"Being a heel is 10 times harder than being a baby face. Because you have to base, you have to carry. You have to be in the right spot…”
— Rey Mysterio [83:31]

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8. Opening Doors for Each Other

• A profoundly emotional segment where Cody thanks Rey for choosing him as his WrestleMania opponent, describing it as a “life-changing” opportunity (52:31–57:36).
• Rey credits Conan for opening doors in his own path, mirroring the mentorship Cody received from Rey.

Quote:

"You changed my life...I would have never had a high. Everything. So I have to thank you."
— Cody Rhodes [54:36]

"I've had incredible opponents over the years that thanks to them, like, I have outshined and been put on the map. But I truly don't believe that I would be here if I wouldn't have been given the opportunity..."
— Rey Mysterio [56:00]

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9. Respect, Locker Room Camaraderie, and Staying Grounded

• Cody lauds Rey’s reputation as the most universally beloved figure in wrestling locker rooms (63:19–64:07).
• Rey attributes this to his upbringing, gratitude, treating all peers with respect, and passion for wrestling.

Quote:

"I've always respected all my peers younger or older than me. And I think I've always treated everyone the way I've been wanting to be treated."
— Rey Mysterio [65:18]

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10. Family Training, Next Generation, and Personal Growth

• Both discuss their early training—Cody’s with his father Dusty, Rey’s as a child under his uncle (74:02–76:45).
• Rey shares updates about his daughter Aaliyah’s interest and progress in training and the excitement (and anxiety) of possibly having another family member step into wrestling (76:27–79:26).
• Rey’s philosophy as a father: never force but always support the dreams of his children (94:39–95:22).

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11. Philosophy on Learning, Longevity & Remaining Timeless

• Both agree that continued learning, adaptation, and humility are vital for longevity (88:15–88:49, 89:40).
• Rey reflects on his goals post-Hall of Fame induction; his ongoing roles include contributing to AAA’s growth, supporting Dom’s journey, and adapting to the ever-changing industry (90:46–91:37).

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12. Fun Rapid-Fire Topics and Lighthearted Moments

• Rey’s “Dream Team” (zombie apocalypse or wrestling apocalypse): his dogs, and his lifelong friend Konnan (97:06–99:08).
• Final word games: Rey coins the phrase “Wheatley so good I drink it maskedly” for a vodka jingle (100:18).
• Anecdotes about first training matches, locker room pranks, The Miz’s competitiveness, springboards, and the art of “basing.”

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments (with Timestamps)

• On the Hall of Fame mask’s story:

  “He came to me with the present. … My masks bend made out of material. This one was like a helmet.”
  — Rey [02:52]

• On the Halloween Havoc 1997 “Desert Phantom” suit & drink:

  “This drink is special. It was the Halloween Havoc 97 against Eddie Guerrero. Phantom outfit. So it’s … a touch of Rey Mysterio. Ish."
  — Rey [08:08]

• On Dom’s generational growth:

  “Watching you watch him in Boston … it’s really wild. … It has to be for you.”
  — Cody [19:07]

  “I now understand and can imagine how your dad felt watching you. Because we have the sense of pride and joy … in some way or form, that is paying off.”
  — Rey [58:18]

• On opening doors in wrestling:

  “You changed my life...I would have never had a high ... So I have to thank you."
  — Cody [54:36]

  "I've had incredible opponents over the years ... but I truly don't believe I would be here if I wouldn't have been given the opportunity … which was Conan.”
  — Rey [56:00]

• On staying beloved and grounded:

  “I’ve always respected all my peers younger or older than me. … That comes from home.”
  — Rey [64:45]

• On being a base, not just a flyer:

  "Being a heel is 10 times harder than being a baby face ... you have to base, you have to carry. You have to be in the right spot."
  — Rey [83:31]

• On timelessness and continuing to learn:

  "I feel your open mindedness ... the character Rey Mysterio is timeless ... just watching last night ... it's very timeless. Congrats."
  — Cody [88:49]

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Highlighted Segments (Timestamps)

• Intro & Rey’s Fashion Sense: 00:00–04:55
• Bond with Designer, Japanese Culture: 04:55–07:02
• Favorite and Worst Masks: 10:00–11:51
• Eddie Guerrero/Art Barr Tributes: 12:30–14:12
• On Watching Dominik Rise: 17:19–21:21
• Adapting to American Style, Lessons from Dean Malenko: 23:08–25:59
• Learning to Base, “Heel is Harder” Philosophy: 83:04–84:04
• WrestleMania Life-Changing Story: 52:31–57:36
• Locker Room Camaraderie & Respect: 63:19–66:21
• Aaliyah’s Interest in Wrestling: 76:27–79:26
• Dream Team Segment: 97:06–99:08
• Maskly Vodka Jingle: 100:18

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Tone & Language

The conversation is warm, deeply respectful, self-deprecating and often playful—a blend of nostalgia, mentorship, humor, and authentic gratitude between two icons from wrestling families. Cody’s heartfelt storytelling meets Rey’s humble reflections; both speak with candor, reverence, and camaraderie, making this episode a gift for fans of wrestling, lucha libre, and compelling life stories.

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For wrestling fans, aspiring athletes, or anyone interested in legacy, learning, and the bonds that shape champions, this episode is unmissable.

Transcript

[A]

Foreign. Nightmare Cody Rhodes. Welcome to the WWE Warehouse. Thanks to Ben Brown for letting this be the setting for the most look forward to conversation I have had in quite some time. This what do you want to talk about Is a WWE and Fanatics original production and we have an incredible guest and a lot of first with this guest. This is the first time I am sitting across from somebody that I actually wrestled at a WrestleMania which is incredible. Former world champion, WWE champion, tag team champions. Every layer of tag teams for that Cruiserweight champion, a WWE hall of Famer, got the ring on and everything. Royal Rumble winner and often argued particularly by me online. And I don't think it's really much of a an argument anymore. I consider the greatest luchador of all time even being bigger than the unbelievable El Santo and everything that he ever did and such an important person. Contributions wise to pro wrestling to myself which hopefully we get into here in a second. Please welcome to what do you want to talk about? The one and the only Rey Mysterio. Thank you my man.

[B]

Thank you for having me here now.

[A]

Thank you.

[B]

I was waiting for the invitation for a while now.

[A]

I believe you in terms of. I'm so glad. I'm, I'm glad it's happening. It should have happened sooner.

[B]

No, timing is always right. Right, right, right.

[A]

And of all the things that right out of the gate to say to Rey Mysterio and the things I'd want to say, I do probably need to lead with this outfit you're wearing is.

[B]

My teddy bear outfit.

[A]

It's like you skinned a wampa. It's. This is phenomenal.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

You just could at any point when it's time to rest.

[B]

You remember when the Teletubbies were, were hot?

[A]

Yes.

[B]

This is actually a Teletubby jumpsuit which I love.

[A]

I, I, I, I dig it.

[B]

It's comfy.

[A]

And always I, I feel maybe in a sense of just having grown up in wrestling, you Also starting at 14, your uncle like you, you very much part of a wrestling family. One thing I always admire, and I'm sure I'm amongst many who admire this is you have a sense of fashion in terms of the changing of the mask when in different settings. And I know my favorite is the hall of Fame.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

And I think it was the only thing I said because you were moving through and saying your pleasantries and goodbyes and yeah. Do you and sorry if this is a regularly asked question. I just, I'm very curious. Do you have a favorite?

[B]

I think to this day because I Wasn't expecting that mask for the hall of Fame. My designer, Hayashi, which I send a big shout out to, he's working on some new gear right now. But he. He came to me with the present. He flew in from Osaka. He went straight to the arena. I remember he was running late. He got there maybe an hour before the hall of Fame started. And he goes, please, I have this mask for you to wear for hall of Fame. I was like, well, what is it? And he pulled it out. And my masks bend made out of material. This one was like a helmet. And I looked at it, and I was like, wow, this is beautiful. But is it gonna fit me? Because that thing just went on like this. It slid on.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

It didn't bend. I don't know how long he spent making it, but there was no bend to it.

[A]

Sure.

[B]

And when I put it on, I was like, wow, this is cool.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I really love this. So I think that's my favorite out of all of them that he has done over years, since 96.

[A]

It's beautiful. And so you said your designer has been doing this since 1996?

[B]

1996. I met him in. In Japan on my first Japan tour.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And he had an outfit for me made, which was crazy, because he never took my measurements. He was just a big fan. Yeah, we are probably about the same height.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Somewhat same built, you know. And he said, I have this outfit for you. And I made two masks. Just, please, the mask that you wrestle in, I would love to keep it. I was like, I don't think it's gonna fit me, man.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

He goes, no, please try it on. It fit me to a T. Which is crazy. That was the first time somebody has ever given me something without taking any measurements just based on what he was seeing on TV at the time, I feel.

[A]

And you said, he's from Osaka or from Osaka. Isn't it such a kind of having gone over there? Japanese culture, never asking for something without giving something.

[B]

You know, there's a whole.

[A]

The first time somebody asked for an autograph in the lobby, there was a gift that came with like a small candy or something. Just. That's such a beautiful culture. A culture. And the idea is like, hey, wear it, please. I just want it. Yeah, like that. Very much. I mean, of what we do in the live theater aspect of pro wrestling. Also, none of it is possible without the fan and their involvement in Japanese culture. They're wanting the gear, and all their involvement is fundamental.

[B]

Yes, very much. I go back and think at that and tell myself that's been almost 30 years of connecting with him.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Based out of one show that he went to go see and presented me a gift. And we built this relationship that we have a connection, like a very deep connection that over the years, he's made numerous of my WrestleMania outfits.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

And just. He's just an amazing human being. An incredible designer.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And he's made stuff for other guys as well.

[A]

Dude. I was gonna say, now that you're you. I mean, you've shouted him out, I'm sure many times. Do people try and steal him?

[B]

They've asked him. He's exclusive to you. Well, he.

[A]

It's got it right. He's working a lot, though, I think.

[B]

I think the connection that me and him had.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

At the beginning kind of gave him the. Gave both of us the notoriety to start connecting with other people, getting work from others, you know, getting asks from other wrestlers, boxers. I know he made gear for Canelo Alvarez, the boxer as well. So he's done. He's done a lot of stuff.

[A]

But you also grew together. This is you in the beginning.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

So this is pre the world championships, pre the hall of Fame reign, pre everything. He was there. And that. That's. I mean, he bet. He took a bet on. On Rey Mysterio. And what a great. What a great bet to take.

[B]

Incredible. Incredible.

[A]

I see you've got something special there. I have an American mule always brought to us by our friends at Wheatley American Vodka. What is it that you.

[B]

This is. This is custom.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Now, if you want one, I can ask, right?

[A]

You know somebody?

[B]

Yeah, of course. This is called the Desert Phantom. Oh, Fantasma del Desierto. And cheers to you. Thank you for having me here.

[A]

Thank you.

[B]

Made with Wheatley American Vodka.

[A]

Well done. Yes.

[B]

And tastes delicious. It has a bunch of stuff in here, but you know what? I'm a big grapefruit guy.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I feel like it has a little bit of grapefruit.

[A]

Is there.

[B]

I love it.

[A]

I. I know. We're gonna put the ingredients up on the screen so that.

[B]

Oh, you can't do that.

[A]

No. You don't want to give away the secret.

[B]

No.

[A]

The ingredients aren't going on the screen.

[B]

This drink is special. It was the Halloween Havoc 97 against Eddie Guerrero.

[A]

Yes.

[B]

Phantom outfit.

[A]

So it's.

[B]

It has a little bit of tuck of a touch of Rey Mysterio. Ish. So it's one of a kind.

[A]

One of a kind.

[B]

But if you want one, I can.

[A]

Request, you know someone.

[B]

Oh, yeah.

[A]

So the Phantom mask is. This is a period of time that I'm deeply entrenched in WCW.

[B]

How old were you at that?

[A]

So 96.

[B]

90. 97.

[A]

12. 12. And. And this is the bodysuit as well. Right. In terms of. Because first time he's ripping at all of it. I remember. Right. You know.

[B]

Yes, he's ripping here. Yep. But that was my very first outfit that I wore again. Hayashi. Yeah, his creation. It was like a turtleneck with a mask.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So I put on the. The bodysuit and it came with the mask with the turtleneck and it. It tied underneath like a. Like a leotard.

[A]

Exactly.

[B]

It had Velcro. Yeah. But yeah, it was one piece.

[A]

Isn't it funny how in. In final form, everything looks so clean and polished? But then you think of some of the. I remember all. God bless him, Glenn Kane.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You wouldn't think that Kane had like the little button underneath underneath. Like, you wouldn't think that was part of the cane. Cane look. But you know, all the things that go into.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

The final form of it all.

[B]

The old school look back then. Yes.

[A]

I actually. No rush on this at all because it's been offered in the mystery of this drink. If there's someone making one of those, if it exists. I would love one. I would love. I have to try.

[B]

Highly recommend.

[A]

Highly recommended, right? My gosh, I'd have to try. I don't know if it's.

[B]

Doesn't come with buttons either. This is straight up.

[A]

So I asked about a favorite mask. I often wonder, is there one that caused you the most trouble? Is there a mask that was your least favorite? Yes.

[B]

I love that outfit very much. Again, we were always coming up with like, okay, what can we do this year? What can we do for this pay per View and WrestleMania 21, which was the first. WrestleMania goes Hollywood. Yeah. Eddie and Eddie and I opened up that show and the mask was cool. The outfit was cool. We did a version of my tattoos at the time. It was a chess piece and it had Mexican across the stomach and in the back. He did the design of my spine tattoo with the rib cage on the back. And the mask was made out of like a latex material. This is the first time he had done something like that. But it kept unbuttoning from the bottom. And if you see throughout the whole match, I'm fixing and fixing my mask and I'm strapping it back on. And it was just a pain. Like, I think about that happening to me now at my age. I freak out back then. I don't know how I handled it, but it's like being in there with Eddie is like you feel pressure, but at the same time, you know you have to put on your wrestling boots.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So I was trying to lace up my boots and the mask at the same time and not letting Eddie down for some reason. Man. God is always on our side and. And he made it work perfectly well that night. Yeah. But that was one of the masks that I loved. I just struggled throughout that whole match trying to keep it on. It would slip and move.

[A]

There's a specific. I think it's Greco Roman knuckle lock. Fall back. Were you both bridge up in that match? Yes. Okay.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You don't see that that often. It just came to my mind because I thought like, oh, I remember this where they both bridge up. I think a double cover and then a double bridge or something.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Like maybe monkey flip into it. I feel like it's deep cut on this. But I thought like, this is. Speaking of Eddie, of course. One of my favorite things we do here and the soul that exists the Warehouse is we always try to throw up some of the items that relate to the. To the guest or to the situation. And there's Eddie's.

[B]

I love it.

[A]

It's right there. Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. I love it. You know, we. Dom and I, when. When he claimed that I was his father. Not anymore.

[A]

I don't know why.

[B]

We did a tribute to Eddie and Love Machine at our first WrestleMania together. Yeah. In Texas.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

We just did a newer version. So I wore the Mexican and he wore the American colors, but it was a tribute to Los Gringos Locos. Did you ever have a chance to see Art Bar wrestling?

[A]

That's what I was going to ask you. I saw Art Bar wrestle. And it seems like. And this is probably not the best parallel, but there's wrestlers you hear about all the time. Dick Murdoch, Ray Stevens. Art Barr is one as well. That I feel like there's not enough in terms of. You hear great things. But it didn't move to another. It's limited to a period of time or however it went. But speak to that. Just because I've only ever heard Amazing. And the tag run Ditzy in these jackets is unreal.

[B]

Crazy enough, I was better friends at the time with Art Bar. Yeah. Than with Eddie. For some reason, some weird reason, Art and I just got along very well.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But his. I sometimes think if it. If it was because of the era that we were going through at that time. No. Social media, everything was word of mouth, vhs.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

The observer. That was your only point of reference to who was up and coming. So maybe that's why. And because he left us way too soon.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

He never got to that peak where I think if he was still around when Eddie made it to that peak, that he would have been right there next to him. Uh huh. Yeah. He was just so. That good.

[A]

Absolutely.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Wait, coming in. Oh, coming in.

[B]

That's on the house.

[A]

You knew somebody. Thank you so much. Well, this is a first salute typically. Salud. Thank you. Oh, wow.

[B]

You like it?

[A]

I do.

[B]

I knew it.

[A]

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[B]

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[A]

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[B]

That was in Atlanta. Right?

[A]

In Atlanta. And it happens to be against former world champion. All the things that make up Rey Mysterio. But there is a moment where when it was done, my dad had a BlackBerry and I just remember blackberries had the little ball and obviously like old, old dude as well. There's that, there's that lack of understanding of technology. Once you get one thing down, that's like the one thing you know how to do.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But I remember watching him watch us down the hall and he just took a picture of us talking and I very much knew that that was just for him, that was just, just to be there. So I just wanted to share that with you, that I got to watch you watch him. And it was. It's really wild. And it has to be for you to see. Some of these were children, kids, you know, like, I think you met Ashley, you know Charlotte, I think you met Ashley. Like again, you're talking about the Phantom, right? That's 12 years old for me. And those were the questions I'd ask after the WCW was so. Those pay per views, Halloween havoc, they were so fun because for the regular fan we were rewarded with. You got to see these amazing matches. It's like nobody wanted to put the shift in. They had their main event scene, whatever it was. These amazing matches that were. Everyone was cooking. Everyone. Raven is doing something crazy. You're doing something crazy. Eddie's doing something crazy. Not just the cruiserweight. Like there were genuine character pieces that were happening. And then the NWO scene would take that, whatever it may be. But it's almost like the show built in a way that it worked for everyone. A casual fan, a hardcore fan, there was something special. But I remember how fondly on commentary they would speak about you and how quick it all happened because it was just a few times we saw you and the next thing you know, it was entrenched in you being the lead dog in the cruiserweight division and the kind of trading back and forth that you have with a Dean, that you have with an Eddie is.

[B]

So.

[A]

I guess I'm asking more because obviously I was a massive fan of it and remember a great bit of it. But I ask more what it's like backstage when you're in a place like that, doing what you were doing because you guys were out there, you had time.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, we did.

[A]

To work and tell stories. Yeah.

[B]

And I remember your dad being part of that commentating team.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And he would always speak wonders every time I was in the ring. And at the time I didn't recall it going back and watching stuff like that. I can hear him now and oh, wow. Like he never had. Always spoke very positive about my work and what I delivered. And that was very.

[A]

He loved you.

[B]

Oh, I loved him too.

[A]

He come back and he'd talk about you and. Because there was questions and you know, Mike Tenay was right there to fill in a lot of details that maybe you didn't know, but he. I think he fell in with the familia of it. The. The like, oh, the. This guy's. Same with Eddie. Like I remember not knowing who Eddie was and he kind of set me down. So I always felt Like I had a heads up over all my friends. I was sitting there like, you don't know that.

[B]

Right.

[A]

This is such and such from this family. And he'd have that information. But I think it's something that the psychology. There's another thing I want to ask you about being a lighter heavyweight in a company of giants and how you not only survive but thrive. The psychology of that was fun for him to be part of on commentary, the rooting for somebody and you being one of the few who could find a way.

[B]

Right. Well, I was always very open minded and still to this day to listen.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Whether he has more years on top of my experience or less years, if there's a suggestion and. Or an opinion on how the match should go in a certain direction, I'm all about it. And at that time, especially entering wcw, I was being guided the majority of the times on how to work this particular American style.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Coming from everything being so fast, no count outs and just.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Doing whatever you wanted, whenever you wanted. So the first one to teach me that was Dean. Dean was just incredible at just putting pieces together and, and I would tell him, I would love to do this. Where can we throw this in? And that's how I started learning how to kind of just put the puzzle together.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, But Dean was a very fundamental key on the uprising of my career in wcw. With the very first, with the very first match, thinking that now I know what a dark match is or a tryout match.

[A]

Sure.

[B]

Back then I didn't know what a tryout match. So what it was me going in to do my first wrestling show for wcw. I'm thinking, yeah, they're gonna probably throw me in before the pay per view starts. And this was Bash at the Beach, Washington, Baltimore. I'm sorry. And I'm thinking, okay, well, I'm sure we're probably gonna be the first match opening the show and then obviously they're gonna lead into the pay per view.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

No, it was the first match on the pay per view and I literally started to panic in a good way. So I was like, oh, I've never wrestled Dean before. I studied him, try to pick up a little bit on what he did, but the connection was instant. And I, I felt like I was very easy to adapt with whoever it was that I was stepping in the ring with. And that really gave me a lot of confidence to eventually wrestle a Regal later on in wwe. A Kurt angle. Like, it just, it was, I guess, the passion and the love that I have for this sport that. That just made me blend in with whatever style that was brought up to me at the time, which is so cool.

[A]

It's so funny you brought up Dean. There's a synergy here. To Dean. One time was in the ring teaching all of us just a pre house show, pre alive event. And he said something because somebody was asking about calling spots. He said something I'll never forget. He says, you don't always have to call spots.

[B]

Right.

[A]

If I hook you like this and throw my arm here, I'm gonna suplex you. Like he said something about the connection, the physical. If I've got you, you know what we're. You know where we're going. If I tuck you in like this, if I. You're. You're at least. If there's three routes here, you know what those three routes are. And I always thought that's genius because really, the idea of just counting on your person to be professional and have enough in the. In the bank to know I could do this, I could do this. I could just reverse out of it, whatever it may be, instead of yelling it or speaking in carny or whatever it may be. And I thought, I don't think that's a thing that's taught. Which is wild to me. Here you are going to this pay per view match, and that's somebody that. Because when you have chemistry with somebody, you want to work them all the time.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I won't say who, because this was just recent, but I just wrestled somebody on TV where right away I thought.

[B]

Ooh, this is special.

[A]

This is special. And. Yep. And I wanted to let as many people know as I could.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And we're not doing live events anymore. No. But still, the nature of being in there with someone who gets me or feel. We just have a. We're clicking.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And you and Dean. Absolutely.

[B]

It's. Yeah.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

It's crazy going back and just thinking about those moments or those. That first stage of being able to work with him, it's like, wow. Like we really created magic. Which I felt at the time, I hadn't jumped to many opponents.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

The only opponents that I really had a good connection was Psychosis, which was the number one. Hooven to Guerrero.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Which was number two Movie. And to me, another guy that I connected with was Heavy Metal, Casa's younger brother. You know, besides that, I would have good matches, decent matches with other wrestlers. But Mexico was so used to doing three versus three, two versus two single matches were only for a title. A mask versus mask or A hair versus mask. So you didn't get to see many of those single matches. So you connected with pretty much whoever was in front of you of the three opponents. But here going into WCW was the majority were single matches. Yeah. And that was. That's what really kind of opened up my confidence to be able to trust other wrestlers on a one on one.

[A]

Sure. And I feel like this is just from an observation standpoint because I watched so much of wrestling throughout the day and that's an era that I was. We were all into it. But it's. It's very fun to watch an incredibly young adult crowd, college age. Whereas today it's so many young kids and families. That attitude era. Monday night war is peak. That WCW run, NWO run. It's a lot of college age, rowdy with a bit of ignorance in not a negative way. But they're just coming to have a good time.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And it's very fun to see people that perhaps they had no idea were wrestling. Absolutely. Take the crowd on a ride. Dean. Powerbombing a dude, powerbombing you maybe coming off the ropes and getting a near fall. That it's like they took the opportunity that was in front. All of you took this opportunity. Because that era is obviously clearly talked about so much with what happened with the cruiserweights and what happened. But that couldn't. There's a chance that that doesn't happen. If you don't have the right people. There's a chance that I don't. Where's. I don't like this, you know. And instead instantly Ultimo Dragon, you, Eddie, like it's what a class of people. That's why I wondered what it's like or what it was like backstage for that when you're in that company. And is it a chip on the shoulder? Is it more of a confidence and having fun? Is it learning? Was it incredibly pressure filled?

[B]

I think from my point of view, I think because of what you just said of fans maybe going in to see what the NWO was doing at the time. You know, we slowly started capturing that audience to become like more and more focused not on what was happening with the nwo but what was happening that cruiserweight division, all these guys that were coming in with masks. But from my point of view, I think it was more of let's go out there and let's go have some fun. Let's go do what we love to do. I've always went out thinking I'm putting everything out there.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Like whatever. It is they can let me do it. I'm gonna put it out there. So it was always very enjoyable and. And obviously you knew with who you can really let yourself go.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And obviously Eddie was one of them. Jericho was another Dean. You know, overall, that whole division Dragon, we would go out there and just put on really good matches. The psychology wasn't quite there all the way yet, but we were all learning in the process, you know, And I learned so much from all the guys that I just mentioned over the years on how to eventually start toning it down. But I think that happens to everyone. When you're on the rise. You're just willing to do and take whatever to go out there and entertain. Right. And that was my case back then.

[A]

We talked about Dusty on commentary and how he talked about you, Dusty, how he'd explained some of the guys who I. Where's he from? What's his story? Get some information. There's always times when in conversations that my dad's brought up where I'm of the thought, I don't really want to talk about my dad. Or oh man, here we are talking about dream again. But one thing I thought I was like, oh, I hope. I think classic wrestling booker producer 101 sometimes is going, that's my guy. That's my girl. There's something about them. Like you saw something they did one night or two nights and whatever it may be, and that's my guy. That's what it was. It was. That's my guy. You know, a couple matches in with Dean, whatever, that's my guy. And I wanted to bring this up because there's someone today that I was watching. And I can't believe I'm gonna say it. Cause I don't have a great reaction, like interaction with him. But there was a guy I was watching. And I shared it with one other legend backstage the other day. Cause I thought if my dad was still alive, that'd be his guy. And it was solo Sikoa.

[B]

Oh, wow.

[A]

And I couldn't figure it out. I'm like, he would just eat him up. Just something about exactly what you just said. Go out there and take what I have. But also, we're gonna have a good time, right? We're gonna have a good time. Like, there's pressure, you know, when you get to those points when there's pressure and it's almost like that's all there is. Well, this is just all pressure. And then there's also, we're gonna have.

[B]

A good time, right?

[A]

This play, you know MGM Grand's losing their mind. It's another, you know, Monday night sellout or WCW pay per view sellout. We get it. February is full of flowers, candy, stuffed animals and of course, lots of talk about relationships and dating. Sometimes it can feel like everyone else has it all together in their love lives. Whether married, dating or single, the truth is most of us are still figuring it out and finding our way. And no matter where you are in your romantic journey, therapy can help you find your way. Help you determine what you want, what feels heavy, and how you can take some pressure off yourself. Therapy can help you identify what's weighing your relationships down and find ways to brighten them. Again. Whether it's for individuals or couples, therapy is an opportunity to identify what's getting in the way and help remove any blockers. BetterHelp therapists work according to a strict code of conduct and are fully licensed in the US and BetterHelp does the initial matching work for you so you can focus on your therapy goals. A short questionnaire helps identify your needs and preferences. And our 12 plus years of experience and industry leading match fulfillment rate means we typically get it right the first time. If you aren't happy with your match, switch to a different therapist at any time from our tailored rex. With over 30,000 therapists, better help is the world's largest online therapy platform, having served over 6 million people globally. And it works with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 for a live session based on over 1.7 million client reviews. Sign up and get 10% [e-mail] Cody that's better. H lp.com Cody because we talked about it a little bit and you mentioned contemporaries in terms of, and lucha libre and doing the psychology, the differences right now with WWE and AAA and this, this partnership and everything that's going on. Do you feel, I don't know, do you feel there's a misconception about lucha libre or do you feel there's something that people don't know yet that they'll see with this?

[B]

I think that it could be interpreted both ways. You know, they're probably waiting to see a little bit more of the lucha style. But it was only an acquisition. And I think eventually when the time is right and everything lines up, there might be some interaction between talent.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But I think overall lucha libre is the same. The same it was 20, 30 years ago when we first came into WCW on the scene. You know, it hasn't changed. The mask still means the same. The only thing that I Think we're trying to incorporate, which we have done over the years on the Mexican side is taking away those two out of three falls. Just doing that one fall, which now the fans are very adapted to. But overall, I think. I think the American fans want to see who's out there that we haven't seen yet that we would like to see.

[A]

Sure.

[B]

Like, give us something new, a new parka, a new Silver King, you know, what's that next generation that's up and coming. Like, at one point we left AAA to come over.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Who are those guys? And I think we've seen a little bit of them.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Mr. Iguana, you know, Psycho Clown.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Who's a generational as well.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, and it was funny because I was just remembering what you just said about Solo. Another generational.

[A]

Yeah. Wrestler. Grew up in it. Got a little bit of sense about.

[B]

Do you think there's something about that that just pulls you in even more once you're in?

[A]

I think it pulls you in. I think it makes you very responsible to the business. You feel responsible to. This fed me now it's gotta keep feeding me. Or in Solo's case, feed my family now. So as fun and silly as the job, sometimes, look, on paper, it's business. Right. And also, having seen a dad or a mom go through it, you get a sense of. You get a really. You get a college education on the industry before you ever have an elementary school. That's why I always. If you're a second or third generation, I always think, great. You know, a lot. Go train with somebody completely different, though, who can just teach you how to hold someone's wrists on an arm wringer. Because you don't get that from dad or mom always. You know, a lot of that is the deeper, hey, this is why that worked and this is why that happened. And to combine the two is amazing. But you feel responsibility to it.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

I've told you about what happened with me and Psycho Clown, right?

[B]

No.

[A]

Oh, it's great. Psycho Clown's such a class act.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Gave me a mask. I got it on the bus. But if you don't know AAA or Lucha and you see that mask, you'd think I was a serial killer in my side gig. But he signed this mask, but. So I did Triplemania a few years ago and. Triplemania, you know, it's a little bit. I'd say production. WWE's production is absurd.

[B]

Right, right, Right.

[A]

So it feels like anytime you're wrestling anywhere else, you, You. You know, maybe the Productions of Hair down are a little fast and loose, a little different.

[B]

It's different.

[A]

Different, right? Just different.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

He was shooting fire out of a guitar, and I was in this, like, astro crag like, stage setting. And I was just coming out and I was just doing American Nightmare stuff.

[B]

Right.

[A]

It was pretty, like, I was really there just to kind of do the Jimmy Doo again. Hey, guys. You know. But he had called this great match and he was just everything he was. I couldn't have asked for a better person to walk in the locker room and be like, yeah, sure, man. Thank you. I will return this favor when I. You know. But he's shooting fire out of this guitar and I'm. I'm. My head is here in this thing ready to come up. And dude is just full fire and it is right by my head. And I thought, like, the stage is made of wood. I thought. I thought like, this. This is the most like, AAA moment. Like, it was such a cool entrance, but I. You would have never today.

[B]

Did he. Did he catch you?

[A]

No, not at all. But I very thinking, like, no one even told me.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

That brothers is going to be fired.

[B]

Yeah, it was great.

[A]

It was. Honestly, it was a great, like that arena to Arena Mexico and all. It's just a good moment. Yeah. I'm so glad to see him.

[B]

That was a triple A show, right?

[A]

That's triple mania. Yeah.

[B]

Wow.

[A]

Yeah. I want to ask because you mentioned who's next, Right. In terms of. And no spoilers or anything to that nature, but I know in terms of who's on our current, you know, roster with Penta and Ray. And is there someone who. We don't know yet, who you think's finding the way? It seems like there's a class.

[B]

So it's funny you mentioned Penta and Fenix because they were at one point AAA all the way.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

As a matter of fact, I had a chance to meet up with them for the first time in aaa back in mid 2000, 2014, 15, when we were doing that whole Lucha Underground scene. And very talented. And eventually they're gonna. They're gonna be in. In wwe. And obviously they made it into WWE before the acquisition of aaa. Yeah. So they have a huge future ahead of them here. But overall, I think I know the son of Dr. Wagner.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Is very good.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

I know Hijo del Vikingo is. Is also incredible.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

He does some pretty amazing things.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But it's also like how I remember when I was doing a lot of crazy stuff, and I don't maybe I'm outdated now by trying to give advice to talent like Hijo del Vikingo on trying not to do much and just make what you do mean more seem logical.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But then I asked myself, am I just trying to hold them back, or am I really, like, I am being honest with you, but I just, I don't want him to get hurt. I want him to be safe and make a good career.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But. Or is just simply the business changing to where it's at now?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

What do you do?

[A]

Well, no, I think, I think there's something to be said for, hey, take what you do, make it mean more.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Or you can maybe do a little less from a longevity standpoint. But also, I wonder, what is Ray at Halloween havoc thinking?

[B]

Right.

[A]

Because when you're not. And I don't want to use. I'm very selective about the word over because I feel like it's pretty misused in wrestling. But when you're not popular, just not even popular or not known.

[B]

Right.

[A]

That's your opportunity to swing, go for the fences. And the last thing I think you want to hear is, don't, don't. But there just comes a point right. Where you do go, you know, I don't have to empty the pockets here.

[B]

Right.

[A]

I'm gonna leave a few. Not because of laziness, because of the longer story we're telling and that.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And I feel like it's a discretionary thing on. It's very tough to know when you're. Kevin Owens said something once in a random documentary that I saw that I'll never forget. He said, kevin. Kevin said a lot of guys say they're old school, but what they actually mean is they're lazy.

[B]

And I thought, oof.

[A]

Because you do meet a guy, a lot of guys are like, oh, let's take the bumps, limit the bumps.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Yeah. Some of them, you're like, for what? Yeah, we're not even. You're not working next week, man. Like, for what? You know, like. So I, I, I wonder. And I mean, you named guys that are all Penta. I, I adore penta.

[B]

Yeah. Yeah.

[A]

And Phoenix and Vikingo. It's just clown. And there's so much to come. But I think. I don't know if anyone will understand this, but one of my favorite things about Penta is a few times I worked him, I have no clue what he's talking about, but then I'll fully know what he's talking about because it's always the same. It's like Me, you, Canadian you. Me and my brother.

[B]

That's a Mexican car, dude.

[A]

It's wild. Because I'd be like, okay, so Canadian you. You're right up. You Canadian me. Phoenix comes in head scissors. Like, because it's always my brother. Yeah, I. Dude, I just, I would get such a kick out of like, I'd. I'd hear him talking to someone when we weren't working. I'd be like, how do you have a clue what Penny's like?

[B]

Ah, yeah.

[A]

Me idea. You know, sometimes like in New Japan, it's like, idea, my idea. And you're. Because I remember one time I was. I was with Brandy overseas in Japan and she heard me talking to a Bushi.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

And after, she's like, you can't talk to people like that. And I said, no, no, no, that's. That's how the. Everyone's talking. I'm not saying like, I. My idea. It's how the broken. It's how we work.

[B]

She thought it was disrespectful.

[A]

Yeah. She thought I was like, disrespecting. I'm like, no, no, no. That's the same way. But man, when Pinta every. He talks to me, I always just. I'd hear him and he's such, he's such a protector for his brother.

[B]

Yes. Oh, yeah, brother. He's a big brother.

[A]

Oh my God, my brother.

[B]

Oh yeah.

[A]

They're so freaking talented.

[B]

Oh, so incredible. You know, funny enough, the same person that discovered me and psychosis is the same person that found Penta and. And Fanny's K dog, Conan. Yeah. Yeah. It's crazy, like, to see that full circle. Like, okay, Triple A beginning.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Career opens up now we're here. Doesn't get any bigger. And vice versa for them, like, it's the same. It's amazing.

[A]

He's one of the ones I. I always love. When the legends come to tv. I love now that talent relations lets us know.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Who's coming to tv. I think that's the nicest little thing.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Sometimes I have to hide because there's a lot of. When you're second generation, there's a lot, A lot of like dad, uncle, brother, sis, a lot of talk.

[B]

Right, right.

[A]

And we might be busy, you know, so you don't ever. The legend. You never want to be like, okay. Yeah, exactly. I would never.

[B]

I hear you.

[A]

He's one of the ones that, in the few interactions I've had a man to man sit down moment with. I walked away thinking like, geez, how smart. How thank you. You know, like, I remember I sat here with Bruce one time and I remember all the stuff Bruce was saying. I was just needing to hear it.

[B]

It's like a little treasure box.

[A]

Oh my gosh. And I was with Conan. We were in Mexico and we were in a. He was driving me back to the hotel. He was talking about listening to new music. Even if you don't like new music, you should listen to new music because the kids are listening to new music. And the last thing you want to do is present something as cool. That's not cool. And it was just the simplest of things. But to hear it from him and then also see what a track record. Look at all that in the 90s. Look at now. It's still going just ear to the ground. Because I think that's a big secret about the legend. The real legend types is they're not relegated to an era. Right. Like if you were to ask probably your favorite wrestler, the biggest legend in your career, what he would think of wrestling today, I bet you they'd like it. Right. I, I know that from my perspective when we were at the Netflix premiere, I was all emotional because I kept thinking about all the guys who worked.

[B]

Right.

[A]

So that they could have an international appeal like that, so that they could be. So yeah, it's changed. Yeah, yeah. It's dangerous. Yeah. The psychology is different, but like it's. The game goes on.

[B]

Right.

[A]

You know, if that makes any sense.

[B]

Yeah, yeah.

[A]

Conan though.

[B]

Mm, yeah.

[A]

Genius.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, yeah. And. And he's always like stayed on top of like you said, what's the new song? You should listen to it. Like he's always been on top of just generational culture.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

You know, overall, just to stay, you know, at the same level of the game, whatever that game is. Yeah, yeah.

[A]

I always want to do the rolling clothesline, but I always. If you ever just see a random brother just rolled into a clothesline because it was such a.

[B]

It was so simple.

[A]

So simple. And a good old. Hey, anyone can do it really. If you can do a forward roll, nobody does it. Nobody does it. Yeah. Wow. Now after this airs, I want to pull out, I want to pull out a rolling clothesline because that's beat you to it. Yeah, he does roll in the clothesline. Big news, WWE and sports fans. The world's number one sports fan festival, Fanatics Fest is making its return to new fanatics is bringing you closer to the leagues, teams, superstars and athletes you love. Across four action packed days in July, meet your favorite WWE superstars get your hands on exclusive merch, catch live podcasts and interact with the biggest names in sports. Tickets are on sale now and fans of the podcast can use code CODY10 at checkout for 10% discount. Head to fanaticsfest.com to get your tickets today. Oh, man. So I, I, I, I waited this long and I, I feel like this room is quite aware of what I'm going to tell you. I feel you're aware of because We've talked about WrestleMania, you and I before. I don't know if we've ever had it discussed to me. Like, I don't know if I've ever been able to relate to you, my perspective on that. WrestleMania, it, the whole process is unique because, man, we're talking about him again. Dean Malenko standing in the ring at tv. You're on the other side of the ring, Holden Court, you know, one of the most beloved guys in all locker rooms. Like the Snoop Dogg of wrestling. Just loved everywhere you. And he comes over to me, he goes, hey, Rey has a choice for WrestleMania and he wants to wrestle you. And you know, it's presented in a pretty formal way. And I'm doing dashing Cody Rhodes at the time I got on Smackdown so I got away from Teddy and Randy. I'm really just doing my own thing. Michael Hayes is always the way. Michael Hayes is with me. Half takes me under his wing. Half also is like, no, he's not mine. You know, like, I'm half in. So he's all excited about it, he's riding the show. But I came up to you, I was like, hey, I, that's amazing. And you said, yeah, I think we should have good match. It was just simple, we could have good matches. I was like, okay, well I'm gonna write something and I'll call you. And you're like, yeah, call me anytime. Okay, so then for the next five days, I think I texted you and just nothing ghosted. And I thought, oh, well, maybe it was just like not meant to be. But no matter what, I'll have something, I'll write something out. So I start writing out the angle, a little bit of how we could get into it and some random, what I'd call ancillary ideas. We could do this with the mass we could do. I'm writing out. Another full week goes by without getting anything. Nothing, nothing. And I'm thinking, okay, well things do change. This was also incredibly like at this point, I am self aware enough to know it was a really nice moment by the ring. If things change they change. Can't get married to anything in wrestling, right? Can't. But then I think it's the BOK center, or it was called the BOK center, but I walk in and I haven't spoke to you. And I have the sheet I sent you, which was a full gridded out WrestleMania program in like a laminate folder that you'd present in high school, like as a presentation. I have it in my backpack. I have three of them. And I walk in and you're standing right by the door to Vince's office. And you're right there and you just said, hey, I'm gonna go in there and talk with him. You wanna come with me? And I had just got to the building, so I'm like, yeah. So I like put my bags in and we walk in and you legit. It just happened so fast. I'll never forget it. You just started right away. You go, hey, just so you know, I, I would like to wrestle Cody at WrestleMania. And we're, we're interested in that. And the next thing you know, he looks over at me kind of, he's almost not irritated with you, but irritated with me. Yeah. Being in the room. And he goes, well, you got any ideas? Yeah, pulled it out of my backpack.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Handed it to him. And then he said the same thing you said. He goes, okay, we'll do it. It'll be a great match. Great matches. And wow. And I remember, like, I had nothing going on, Nothing like little bones here and there. But it had been a minute, right? This, like it had been a minute. And I knew getting involved with you and Dean and the story, I knew we had a good story. And then we had my dad come to Sacramento to hold your hand.

[B]

Right.

[A]

I remember, which is like he, he wasn't even turning heel, just being a dad.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Like, he just held you that extra second where I sucker punched you in the back. And yeah, I remember Randy telling me that day, he's like, just believe your heat. Believe it. You know, throw him in the barricade. Get yours. Believe it. It was great advice because that's still how Randy works today. You know, it's his. But I had never. So I had never wrestled at a WrestleMania in a singles match. I had never wrestled a pay per view in a singles match.

[B]

So were you just doing like triple.

[A]

Threat the year before with Randy? Battle Royal the year before that? I had been in the main events, pay per views as a tag.

[B]

This was 2000.

[A]

Where. 2008.

[B]

2008.

[A]

2008. Ish. Go WrestleMania in Atlanta. Ms. Cena. WrestleMania.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Yeah. You were at Captain America.

[B]

Yes, I remember the album.

[A]

Captain America.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But Ray, like, I could say everything and. And obviously mean it about who I. I think you are in the. In the lucha libre zeitgeist and how important and your contributions to the industry are. I was a fan, so I know what you did know what you continue to do. But you changed my life. Like.

[B]

That'S.

[A]

I don't get anywhere, dude. Like, I had nothing coming my way. I lost Teddy and Randy. I wasn't the one who was supposed to go, you know, and you know what that's like. It wasn't a knock on me. I just wasn't the one who was supposed to go.

[B]

There's always one that advances the other. You have to figure out another route. Yeah.

[A]

And I. I got to experience things at a different level and play ball at a higher level. And I would have never gotten out of the blocks. You know, I don't know who that would have been. I would have never. I would have never. I would have never had anything. So I'm sure there's someone in your career who had a moment with you where maybe you felt the same. But for me, it is legitimately a core moment.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Nothing happens without me walking into that building and you being like, you want to go in? And the next thing. The rest was history for me. And of course, there's a myriad of highs and lows, but I would have never had a high. Right. Everything. So I have to thank you.

[B]

There's. That's. That. That makes me feel a huge side of satisfaction to be able to.

[A]

Be.

[B]

That person that maybe opened up that first door. Yeah. And, you know, we all have someone that is our first one. To me, I've always said that it's. I've had incredible opponents over the years that thanks to them, like, I have outshined and. Been put on the map. But I truly don't believe that I would be here if I wouldn't have been given the opportunity to even go to Mexico for the first time, which was to me was Conan. Conan opened the doors, and wherever he went, he brought me along with him. Ecw. Wcw. So the only thing was wwe because it was already purchased. But overall, he's the one that kind of saw something in me that I would have never discovered. And that just helped me mold into the person that I am now. But I feel truly blessed and honored to have been that person for you. You have no idea. Like, I've heard you Tell this story.

[A]

I'll tell it to anyone who listens 300 times a day.

[B]

And I just. I've never heard it in the fashion of how you said it right now and how. How impactful it was, you know, at the time. So I feel truly honored to have been that person, like, from the bottom.

[A]

Of my heart, changed my life. And because you mentioned Conan being the one to open doors for you. Cheers to Conan.

[B]

Cheers to Conan.

[A]

Cheers to Conan.

[B]

And cheers to that door.

[A]

Oh, my gosh.

[B]

For both of us.

[A]

Wow, that's great.

[B]

And time does fly, huh? Yeah. Like, that was 2008. Oh, yeah. That was at least 2008. So when you. When you came in with Randy and. And Teddy.

[A]

That was Randy. Yeah, 2008. 2009. That starts. So maybe it was 2010, man. I'm. It was 2011. Yeah. Yeah, 2011. I was off.

[B]

Yeah, 20.

[A]

2011. Yeah. Yeah.

[B]

And going back to that moment of your dad snapping the picture and, like, me, like, seeing Dom's growth right now and. And being around and. And not just seeing it from, like, an office standpoint, but being part of talent still. It's. It's so crazy and surreal to, like, I. I now understand and can imagine how your dad felt watching you.

[A]

Oh, man.

[B]

Because we have the sense of pride and joy and like, we accomplished something.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

In some way or form, that is paying off.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

And I'm sure your dad is so freaking happy just on all the success and the accomplishments that you conquered. So tip my mask off to you for that, man. You gotta feel proud.

[A]

I. I don't know how much we're allowed to talk about Dom.

[B]

We can talk him. He is my son. Officially. He is my bloodline.

[A]

It's funny, again, I think I might have told him this story, and I tell others the story about, hey, your dad opening up the door for me. But also what's funny is there's such a generational gap when you're older in terms of. I thought, like, oh, I'm cool. Like, Dom. I'm like, cool. And then you realize, like, oh, Dom's like a kid. He's not like, he's a. He's cool.

[B]

You're not cool.

[A]

Like, you're like. You're trying to be like, hey, Dom. What's up, cool kids? You know, like, it's. He's cool. But I always. None of this would ever. I don't think this is remotely applicable. But I always thought, hey, man, if he was ever in trouble, I got that guy.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Like, I don't even know him. I don't know Dom, but I know Ray well enough to know any issue with Dom. I'd have his back at any, any juncture and, and just a, for sure.

[B]

I, I, but he needs to know that you have his back. Only because it's through me.

[A]

Oh, yeah. No, no, no. He hasn't done that thing yet where it's like, hey, man, like, you know what I'm saying? That's, that's the, that's the, that's 100%. I think sometimes Paul Heyman. Mr. Heyman.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Will bring me in for a pow wow on occasion.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And I can never tell. I'm like, I wonder if he's, wonder what's going on here.

[B]

He's so unpredictable.

[A]

Yeah, he's very unpredictable. Is it something I did that he liked? Is it something he wants to teach me? Or is it just that at 14 years old, he snuck into my dad's production meeting as a photographer and my dad allowed him to stay in the meeting. And ever since then, he's had this claim that it was a core moment and change things and open the door for him. And I thought, like, I don't know which one it is. Still, like, I'll take the, the equity from someone else, but, you know, at a certain point, you want to build your own or whatever it may be. All right, this next question is part of a segment we call Game Plan Fueled by Game Day Men's Health. Because let's be honest, showing up at your best takes work. So let me ask you, what is your game plan for staying sharp? Could be physical, could be mental, could be family stuff. Whatever it is, how do you stay in the zone and keep pushing even when life's stacked against you?

[B]

I think I have to contribute that to. Every morning when I wake up, that cold plunge is waiting outside my room. I jump in there, it's at 39 degrees, and I stay there for about three minutes. If I feel froggy, I might stay there a little bit longer.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But sometimes when that three minute mark hits, I'm out of there.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And that's how I start my day. That's, I believe that's what keeps me sharp and on my toes and ready to kick my day off.

[A]

That's exactly why Game day is out here, helping guys optimize their energy, their focus and longevity. You don't have to slow down. You just need the right game plan. Check out gameday men's health.com Cody to learn more, here's something I want to ask, as we mentioned, the Snoop Dogg thing, I don't know if that's a great parallel, but I. Snoop is wonderful. And, yes, he's also beloved.

[B]

Yes. You.

[A]

You've. You've had big gold, you've had WWE Championships, your Hall of Fame. There isn't an accolade. You've won the Royal Rumble. All these top guy, top girl accolades in the industry, you have accomplished those. So a lot of people, the whole thing is, I want to get this. I want to have this. If I can get this, I'll be good. If I can get this. You've had many of them.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But most people, I find that have had those moments, their reputations, they're not negative reputations, but there are minefields, there are enemies, there are certain people who aren't a fan of such and such. You. You've got to be the most beloved guy in the history of all locker rooms. And I. And my question is, because I struggle in this regards, what is the. What. I don't think there's a secret, but is there a recipe for that in terms of how you've maintained a love and a. An awareness and transparency and a realness with. A realness more than anything with the locker rooms you've been in?

[B]

Wow.

[A]

And like. Yeah, because, I mean, certain guys get to a point where they're wearing that ring and they're not one of the boys.

[B]

Right.

[A]

But you, I mean, you're. You've never not been one of the boys.

[B]

Right? Right.

[A]

I remember when Edge broke his neck and we would go overseas and he went on that tour, even though he just went on it just to give the fans his presence and he couldn't work. And you printed the shirts out with the spine on the back and we all took the photo. I'll never forget it. It was a. You, You. You maintained the camaraderie and brotherhood in the locker room. And I just. What's the. The secret or what has worked for you?

[B]

I've. I've. This is the only thing that I've ever done and I've ever loved doing, and the only thing that I know how to do. And I've always held it very dear and close to my heart. And I do it with passion, with love. I spend my energy, I devote myself to this sport. It's given me everything. It's given me the opportunity to meet my wife, to have my children, to live the way I live. Truly blessed overall, not only in sport and life in general, and it's given me so many Opportunities and just a lot of things that I would never thought that I would have in life. And throughout that journey, it kind of opens up your. Your heart and your mind, and you start realizing a lot of things that you didn't realize when you were younger, when you were just kind of going through the flow. I've always respected all my peers younger or older than me. And I think I've always treated everyone the way I've been wanting to be treated. And that. I think that comes from. From home.

[A]

The.

[B]

The way your parents raised you.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Because I see now the same with my kids, like, how they are treated and how people express themselves about my kids. So I think in that sense, there's a foundation to all of this. And it starts from home, then eventually builds into whatever you want to build it from. Whatever traits you pick up from home and carry those with you. But overall, I'm grateful to be where I'm at. I'm grateful with life in general. Blessed 1000%. And enjoy from day one training to this day, everything I have done and I've. I've had people to share it with.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And I like doing that. And I like the camaraderie. I like to connect. I can be very. I can isolate myself a lot when I'm not around this sport.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And I think there's few people that can see that. My wife, my daughter, and maybe my son every now and then. But when I'm here, I get suffocated with it. And I love it.

[A]

It's very. I like that outlook a great deal. You know, you have that there to come in and plug fully in here. And.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Oh, my. This. This is. I wanted to ask this earlier only because it's quite a detour from that answer, but it's something that always. I thought, I wonder. I wonder how he feels about that. This famous NWO backstage attack. I told you this was a hard detour.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

This famous detour. You know, this famous NWO backstage attack that I watched as a kid and completely captured the imagination of the audience. What's real, what's not. Suspension of disbelief. But you get lawn darted by Kevin Nash against the trailer. That's probably the most violent moment throughout the whole thing. And, I mean, lawn darted. You're thrown at a parallel to the ground into a trailer. Yeah.

[B]

I do remember coming out of the trailer.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Jumping on the rail and thinking, I'm gonna take Kevin Nash down with this cross body. And of course, that didn't happen.

[A]

You tried.

[B]

But you think about that and you're like, that was a moment that was kind of stamped for that era.

[A]

It's crazy too, which is crazy. All the things you do and then that's a piece of it, right? Are you ready to hold WWE history in the palm of your hand? Topps is bringing you closer to the action than ever before. With WWE Topps now highlighting the biggest matches and milestones from WWE shows and ples throughout the year. Topps now is enhancing the fan experience by by connecting collectors to the superstars and spectacles that ignite their passion. Featuring stunning event exclusive photography, each card is made for the moment. And for some lucky collectors, that moment could become the pull of a lifetime. Along with serial numbered parallels, some top Snow releases offer a chance at rare short prints, Superstar autographs, and even pieces of the mat, gear or other items used during the featured match. So which moment will you collect with each card only available for a limited time, you won't want to wait to begin your tops now journey. Be sure to subscribe WWE Topps now mailing list on topps.com and follow Topps on all social media platforms. So you never miss a single moment.

[B]

Were you passionate about wrestling from the moment you found out what it was?

[A]

From the jump?

[B]

Yeah, from the jump, right away.

[A]

Well, so I. I knew because my dad was. I wasn't seeing him actively wrest, but I knew he was a wrestler. I'd seen the belts. I mean this was like really early. I'd seen some of the different wrestlers around the house. The first time I went to a show where I was allowed to go sit down in the crowd without him or I had Doug Dillinger printed me a pass at UTC Chattanooga. I went out, Brad Armstrong hit an arm drag on somebody and the place lost their mind.

[B]

How old were you?

[A]

Seven.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Yeah. And that was the first time I lost interest in the backstage of it. I became a. I think. Cause I was living in the backstage of it already, right? That I became just interested in the. I want to see what's out here, Sting. This is, you know, the early 90s WCW, before Hogan comes in and before the Monday night wars really pick up. But that era of WCW was.

[B]

And you were already watching glances of it on tv.

[A]

So I was already a lot of vhs. I had a lot of VHS in the house. A lot of Titan video that was. I didn't have access to. There wasn't. I didn't even know USA the channel at the time existed. So it was mainly WCW Saturday night. You're watching short squash matches. The Good promos and then a little bit of B roll from something bigger or up. A call to action for the pay per View. But that early 90s WCW was it for me. And then Blockbuster and Hollywood Video. Those are the spots where I started seeing SummerSlam 92 and the WWE. And there was such vast differences in terms of the productions. You know.

[B]

What about Dustin? Like when did you find out?

[A]

So Dustin is same in that Brad Armstrong slot. Dustin, I remember seeing him at the Omni as the natural and hearing all the women go crazy for him and just seeing how good he was. Him and stunning Steve and the stuff they were doing and they were, they were. Even as a kid you knew they were the young guys on the show. You knew they were the young guys and they were almost presented for you right in that stage of wcw. But I don't give Dustin enough credit. Dustin's one like I'm due for a lot of moments where I need to tell Dustin how important he is, how valuable he is. A lot of time could be spent on a therapist's couch about me.

[B]

Just the connection.

[A]

Learning to express a gratitude for my older brother that I just don't know how to do.

[B]

Right.

[A]

I'm terrible at it.

[B]

But he's in the same way. You're the youngest out of four, right? Oh yeah. We don't know how to express sometimes.

[A]

And that's the one we're good at.

[B]

Telling other people but not them directly.

[A]

It's almost like, please, you heard me say it, right? I said it. You don't take it. You don't need to hear it, you know. Yeah. But yeah, Dustin, Dustin was amazing. And also, you know, I don't know if you felt this with anyone in your family, but Dustin was fundamentally just so much better than I was fundamentally trained better, cleaner, knew how to do an inside out bump. Just like things that I was so wanting. And you take. Just takes time, right? Takes time. You don't want your older brother to like see you take time. You want to just be there.

[B]

Right.

[A]

But yeah, he's so.

[B]

So you say that was the age of seven. What, what age was it when you started training?

[A]

Like started training, training. 14.

[B]

14.

[A]

Dusty.

[B]

And then you started wrestling. So seven, seven years later.

[A]

So I was classic south park episode style of. I got into amateur wrestling.

[B]

Okay.

[A]

Not aware that this a big difference.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And then I like fell in love with it which thank gosh.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Cuz once you realize like there's no steel chairs and mask and stuff, then there's. It has its own Culture. But I got really into wrestling. I did it mainly because no one in my family had done it. Dusty and Dustin hadn't been folk style wrestlers. I thought, I'll have a thing, I'll have a little leg up.

[B]

Right.

[A]

14. I started training because he had his indie promotion or when he would do shows, I'd get in the ring, run the ropes. Wasn't supposed to take bumps, but he taught me how to take a bump. I only ever got in the ring with my dad twice and wow, during training he just told me to charge him. He picked me up for a body slam. He slammed me and then he told me to stiff very. And then he told me to charge him again with my arm hooked like this and he hip tossed me very stiff. And it was a. Just to see, just to see, see hey, how hard this is. Like that was all. He wasn't going to give me more than those two bumps. I think he thought, see, it's not all that. Yeah, it's not all that great. Cuz that body slam was, now that I think about it, he tossed me into the mat.

[B]

I went through the same. Yeah, same training regimen with my uncle, but I was about 7, 8 years old when I started training.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So I was just trying to parallel your, like, what age you, you started watching and then started training, then eventually started wrestling. Yeah, I was, I was like the kid in a amateur class, like 8 years old and, and the youngest kid after me was probably 16, 17. So I was, I was just invited to be part of the class because my uncle was one of the teachers. But every time my uncle had a chance to get his hands on me.

[A]

He had to, right? Or they said they had to.

[B]

No, they didn't.

[A]

In hindsight I'm like, did you really?

[B]

But I'm glad they did.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

But I also, I'm glad they did.

[A]

So when I was officially training in the summers, I was 15 and the rule was I wasn't supposed to have matches. But what would happen is my dad would pop his head in. We had one ring that Jody Hamilton sold us and we had one ring. He'd say, all right guys, I'm gonna go in the office for a little bit. And it's almost like he knew. And then it's the moment the door shuts. Scotty Riggs and Big Ron, Stud, Naomi, John, they'd start just back me up in the corner, chop me, shoot me across the ring, do full pinning combinations. And then like all said, he'd pop his head back in the door. Hey, guys. How's it going? And we're just in the ring, like, sweating profusely, like, all right. But it was. I'm positive he knew what I was doing, but that was my first little taste, and I was addicted. I didn't want to. High school be damned. At that point. It's like, what are we doing here?

[B]

You know, like, right now that you're telling me that I. So I. Right before I got cleared from my injury, I went up to the PC in Orlando, and my daughter has been asking me, dad, I want to go in the ring.

[A]

This is Aaliyah.

[B]

Aaliyah.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

I want to jump in the ring. I just want to see what it feels like. I'll do it when you graduate. So she graduated in June from UCSD Human Biology. And she goes, okay, I graduated. When are you gonna take me? When are you gonna take me? I said, I'm actually gonna head up to the PC, so I'll book our flights, and you can go up there with me. So Angie, Aliyah, and myself flew up. She went in there on a Wednesday with me, and I was like, there's no way. Like, this is your first time stepping in the ring. She had a connection with just positioning.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Hitting the ropes. Yeah. Like, that is scary. Crazy.

[A]

So she genuinely. The connection. She wasn't sidebar training. No.

[B]

She. She just went in there with me to.

[A]

Oh.

[B]

Feel what it was like to feel the mat, to feel the ropes. She was a natural, and I. I'm afraid that she might be if she decides to.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Take that path. So later on that day, we went to TJ and Addie's school.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Dungeon. And she did a little bit there, too. And when we finished and the day was over, she goes, I really enjoyed it. Like, this is really fun.

[A]

Oh, yeah.

[B]

I was like, okay. Okay. Okay.

[A]

Yeah. So kind of goes the opposite way. You think it's going to be like, oh, it's too stiff.

[B]

That's what I thought.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

I thought. I don't think. I don't think she's going to like it because the ropes are stiff, the bumps are hard. So I said, okay, the next step would be, let's see if you can go through a full week of training.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And if you can do that and you like it afterwards, then maybe it's something you might want to think about.

[A]

Yeah. Yeah. So we're approaching the full week coming up. Right.

[B]

So, yes. I'm actually trying to get her out there pretty soon so she can just feel what it's like to train every day.

[A]

Good luck.

[B]

Wake up.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Work out all day.

[A]

Yep.

[B]

Sleep?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Back. Same thing, dude.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

That's insane. Like, I've thought about that and. And did you? It scares me, but it also excites me.

[A]

Did you have any clue? Like, did you? Or was it kind of out of nowhere, hey, I'm ready to take go.

[B]

She had been telling me this for about a year and a half, two years.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Like, dad, I want to go in the ring. I'm like, I don't know. And then I kept pushing back. Wait until you graduate. When you graduate, I'll take you. And as soon as she graduates, she goes, okay, I graduated. Here's my diploma. Take me when you take me.

[A]

Oh, man.

[B]

PC, let's go. Yeah.

[A]

That's. That's so exciting.

[B]

It is, it is. It is.

[A]

Another one that I'm ready to defend.

[B]

Yeah. Yeah. I'm excited for that.

[A]

That's. That's beautiful. We were talking about TJ and Addie's school and being a natural. So I will say there's a funny. I wrestled my first technical match at OVW, but that's 20 years old and I'm talking about 15 wrestling these matches at school. And I remember I had my first match in St. Therese in this church. There's literally maybe 20 people. It was one of OVW's first match. Yeah, that was my first match.

[B]

In a church.

[A]

In a church.

[B]

My first match was outside of church.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Parking lot.

[A]

There's something about, you know, I love it. So I had this first match and it was better than most first matches should be. And Miz basically held a talent meeting in the locker room. Like, this is ridiculous. He's had training. Why are we acting like he's not had training? He's doing full blown. He's hitting the ropes. He went on this whole bit and he wasn't wrong.

[B]

He was pre mis.

[A]

Or this is pre him becoming the Miz.

[B]

He was legit.

[A]

He was always the Miz, if that makes any sense. I can't believe it. This guy's not getting into the ring on drills that he should be doing. He was like kind of hot about it. I'm sorry, man. Like, cuz that's what the. The, you know, the old time guys that told you, like, you know, don't always, you know, show your cards there. You're going there. You're learning from them.

[B]

Right?

[A]

Train day one. And that's how I went. But I had all that experience, like with the Power Plant guys and all that. Yeah. No, but Miz threw a whole fit about it. He still does. Like, I know he had had a match before.

[B]

Have you talked about that all the time? Yeah.

[A]

Miz is always like. It was like. Because I did a springboard.

[B]

I'm going to give him now. I will give him.

[A]

I did a springboard. And I remember he's like, hold up. Because he had been trying to do a springboard. Cuz that's a hard. Like, once you figure it out, you figure it out. But at first it's a. If you're. Oh, my gosh.

[B]

Yeah. Oh, I know. You got it down. Even like jumping. Jumping and hitting your feet.

[A]

Yeah, I. I think I'm pretty cool.

[B]

I used to do that all the time. Like, I can't. I would love to do that dude again. I can't. I can't.

[A]

I. I like my little jump jump. But then I'll see Javon do it. And I'm like, never mind.

[B]

Oh, he. Yeah.

[A]

It's like crazy double height, no hand. Because you know, you got it when there's the. No hand. When it's bounce. Bounce.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

Good night.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

But still, I'm just going straight back.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Javon is like this aerial, you know, Crazy.

[B]

Yeah. He has a domination on the ropes is.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Beautiful to watch.

[A]

He's. He's. He's a fun one.

[B]

Yes. Yes.

[A]

Gosh. Yeah. No, there's. There's. What was I just gonna ask you about? I completely spaced on it.

[B]

I know we were talking about the Miz and then we.

[A]

Oh, this is it. I was talking about this in the car on the way last night. We're coming back from the Garden, and I was talking about how you used to. I only know it as a Mexican backbreaker. You used to. So if it was a head scissors, I'd be like this.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

And you'd always kind of imply to me that I gave you a good head scissors. I don't know if it was like. Like a doctor talking to a patient. Like, hey, good job, buddy.

[B]

You know what I'm saying?

[A]

Yeah. But you'd always be like, hey, get me to my feet. But then you'd have me switch.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

For when we go to this Mexican back break.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

But I never understood how you got there. So we'd go here and then all of a sudden you'd be here.

[B]

Oh, for the. Like a torture rack.

[A]

Yes. In a torture act position. And then you'd have me drop to my knees and I'd bump you off. And never once have I been Able to replicate it or talk about it or have anyone understand what you just said. Oh, just switch your hands. So I'd switch my hands and you'd stack up there. Whoa. Knees down. It was like this little hope.

[B]

Yes.

[A]

But it's the only. There's a trading card.

[B]

So you never did that with anybody else?

[A]

No. No. And you just told me, just move your hands.

[B]

Get you back on track, bro.

[A]

That was a whole.

[B]

Yeah. Yeah. That was so fun for me to do too. It's so easy too. Just hopping up there and. And obviously you doing the caring. And I just had a position. That's it.

[A]

That was the first time I learned the art of. Even though I wasn't truly one, but the art of a base.

[B]

Okay. Like, which to me, I think is very hard.

[A]

Oh my gosh.

[B]

I'm. I'm good at coming up with stuff and, and like having somebody carry me to do things, but I've always said that being a heel is 10 times harder than being a baby face.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Because you have to base, you have to carry. You have to be in the right spot. You have to position yourself or adjust if you need to.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

And that's.

[A]

That's part of deep, deep waters of a match too. Legs lost in. You're not falling, you're not dropping them. And then they're supposed to look their coolest.

[B]

Yeah. Yeah. I never like, keep everything.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Consistent, Right.

[A]

Yeah, everything. And you've. That's their. Their moment, you know? And I feel like once I started going, doing triple mania and the things you start to see specific guys who have made a career or are incredible at being a base.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Doesn't mean they don't do great stuff too. But their ability to post and be there for somebody, none of it happens without them, you know?

[B]

Right.

[A]

But that was one of the first times I, I sell. I tell people on certain moves now I'm like, wide legs, strong legs.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Because I just need them to know I'm a little heavier than you might think. Or it's. You know, who knows, when this happens we might be a little tired. And I learned that from being in there with you.

[B]

Right.

[A]

Because we've had. I think I was looking at a sheet earlier. I think we've been in the ring 70 something times together.

[B]

I think the good thing about me is that I'm not as heavy.

[A]

Oh my gosh.

[B]

But. But still, like having to maneuver me around is still breathtaking.

[A]

You know, Buddy, it's. I mean, it's a classic night off situation. It's a classic night off.

[B]

I mean, I go back and I watch the Halloween Havoc 97 and the two moves that I see back to back, that I'm like, okay, I know that I'm not that heavy, but the 6:1:9 into the head scissors, rotating all the way into the ring and then back over the top rope.

[A]

Oh, yeah, yeah.

[B]

And then the front flip into the catch and then into the Rana like that. That's. I was just rotating my body. He was catching me and controlling me and tucking me in and making sure that I didn't hit my head. So, yeah, basing is really hard.

[A]

And probably the secret to it all, breathing, you know, in a way that, you know, like that I always tell people, like, strong legs, deep breath.

[B]

Yeah, yeah.

[A]

Because that if you didn't get anything before, that's one of those where you just fall over. It sounded good backstage, you know, in the moment. Oh, man.

[B]

Very, very true. 10 times. Would you prefer to be heel or baby face? Like what? Cause you've done both. So what do you feel more comfortable doing?

[A]

I feel right now I like the challenge of being a baby face because it seems almost impossible some nights because it's such a kind of. It's easier to be cooler. It's sometimes easier. I really admire Logan Paul's situation, right. He could fall flat on his face and it's no big deal, right? Nothing lost. He can be mad at that crowd. He's. I think sometimes there's some elements of being a heel that are a lot of fun. Whereas with this babyface, especially like a white meat style where you're really trying to be, or more, how Cena would put it, virtuous, trying to make the right choices. That's not always the most appealing thing by modern entertainment standards. But then when you look at our audience and our ticket buying audiences, such young kids and families and such, there's a room. There's room for it, right? There's a pocket for it. And there's different types of baby faces in la. Knight a Jay uso. And then I, I like the challenge of it, but that's because it's, it's. It's hard, right? And I think if, if we ever transition or if a heel was to come back up, that might be something I could even need in my life and don't realize it just from the sheer. Let's go out there and have some fun, right? Let's go out there. I feel like there's a lot of pressure and a challenge on the baby face spot. Whereas sometimes in my experience at least being a heel is a little bit. Let's go, let's just go have some fun. Nothing needs to happen until we're ready for it to happen. That's gonna, we'll get it when we get it. You know, just, you're, you can dictate that pace a little bit more too. Who knows though? It changes here.

[B]

It changes all the time. I, I've had a learning lesson last night with John and Seamus and myself. You know, John had a good talk with us after our match and, and like very. You feel like obviously you can't feel like you know everything, but you never stop learning.

[A]

Right.

[B]

Which I think that's what always keeps me so on my toes and always willing to learn and accept and, and know how to adapt. Yeah, yeah, that's. That's the one thing about the sport that you always, you, if you think you know it all, you're completely wrong because there's always new stuff that you learn or even not new stuff, stuff that has been around. You just haven't applied it to your work. And it was a very good learning experience last night.

[A]

Well, I feel, because we were watching the match in the locker room, I feel your open mindedness and always wanting to learn and challenge even with everything that you've done. The character Rey Mysterio is timeless. And how many people can say that it's wild just watching last night. You know, here's a West coast pop and here's the, you know, the speed and quickness and then here's a little, what I'd say a little bit of English that you've thrown into something. A little bit of color that you've given something that wasn't that just that it's very timeless. Congrats. Thank you. That's.

[B]

Thank you.

[A]

That's being open minded because I guess at a certain point, I mean, you're wearing the hall of fame ring at a certain point. When, when do you want to stop learning?

[B]

Well, that's. I thought that was gonna be like my last accomplishment, being able to get there one day. And when it was presented to me two years ago, I was like, well, damn, what, what am I, what am I shooting for now? Like, what is the goal? I guess the goal is to try to be timeless and still enjoy what I do, but at the same time know when it's time to tap.

[A]

Well, this would be. Because you brought it up and like, what's, what is it right in terms of. I wonder if I put it on the spot. Or it's not something that you know or have thought of yet. Goal minded people typically have another mountain they want to climb.

[B]

Right.

[A]

And then we've laid them out. You're not just a Hall of Famer, you're an active hall of Famer. You currently wrestle actively. Which is.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Is wild. Do you know what that next mountain is? What you'd like to do next?

[B]

I mean, not really. I pretty much have seen more than I could imagine.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

With the growth of Dom and his evolution here in the sport and how he's grown and how he's become his individual self and the place that he's carrying and taking the name to which I always deep down inside thought that he would be bigger and better than me in a different way. And I guess this is the way, which is also funny because my wife said that if he ever wrestled that she always saw him as a bad guy. And here is.

[A]

He's the number one.

[B]

Here is the bad guy that my wife obviously spent way more time with him than I did. I was always on the road, so I guess she saw a side of him that I. I am now seeing. Obviously I didn't know. But overall, I think it might be fun to. To help with the acquisition with AAA and be involved as much as I can with that, you know, and. And kind of start learning on how to work on the production and the side or how I can invest my time to eventually help AAA grow. Yeah. You know, knowing that that was my house, my very first house or my home from day one and from there it all started, everything flourished from aaa. So I. But I'm still enjoying the moment like this is being able to be in there with. With Dom and with Jon and his farewell, his last match in the Garden. In the Garden. You know, funny enough, I was talking to Joe commentating that the last time Dom and I wrestled together there was with Jon in Dark main event against roman and the Usos.

[A]

Wow.

[B]

So that holds a very special place in my heart. And now last night, which was completely the opposite. You know, it's like I have very fond memories of being at the Garden with both my son and John.

[A]

I hope enough people are capturing what you're doing as a family because a lot of times there's such a big separation between, you know, dad Manning and Eli and Peyton. You know, there's a big. It's almost mythical when you think, oh, I remember watching his dad. And then in this case they're a little more on top of each other. There's crossover still. And I just hope that we as a company are covering all of that because it's a truly, you know, one wrestling royal family thinks they've got it, and then the next thing you know, you've got your son shooting to heights as you anticipated and hoped for, and you're daughter is talking about getting into it. And just the idea of the legacy going on, it's insane. And none of it's forced. None of the passion exists. Yeah, the, the, the love for it exists in its own way.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Individually to them. Yeah. That's just a. I have all the respect in the world for people who aren't in these wrestling families because it's kind of fun. How'd you discover it? What were you?

[B]

Right?

[A]

But it does seem like this is a time when there's a lot of. A lot of second, third and fourth generations all around, which it seems like it's in good hands.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

You know?

[B]

Yeah, you're right. Yeah. I get this question asked a lot like, did you ever insist on Dante following your footsteps? I mean, he loved it as a kid, and then eventually, like every other kid, grew out of it and then wanted to play football and do this and do that. And it's not until he got older, 19 years old, that he had nowhere else to go or what to do. And he said, well, I want to see if I can make it in wrestling. I don't even think he knew, you know, what he wanted to do exactly. But it was there he learned, he captured it, he focused, and that's the, the end result right now.

[A]

What do you think of the neck tat? I think as an expert in neck tats.

[B]

I think he overheard me say that I was gonna get a neck tattoo. He jumped right to it. So that way he could say, oh, he's the original. My dad copied me.

[A]

I mean, he got a real deadbeat.

[B]

Dad he's trying to copy. No, I love the fact that he's paying homage to my uncle.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

The person that I fell in love with the sport because of him. You know, I grew up watching him, grew up around him. My life has always been wrestling because of my uncle. And that was the very first mask that he designed and wore.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

So it's, It's. I mean, it's special. It has meaning to it, which is what a tattoo should have. Right.

[A]

I mean, now mine feels less. Yeah, no, like that. Yeah, I like the tattoo. You're totally right. And now it has a.

[B]

And it has meaning.

[A]

So I feel the meaning comes later. With mine. You know what I'm saying? Which I. Yes, but it's there. I willed it into existence. You know, Wheatley, my friends, the American Dream Team, we like to say that's our squad. Me and Wheatley, who's been a wonderful and continues to be a wonderful partner. I ask people all the time, who is your dream team? And sometimes I qualify it with such Going into a zombie apocalypse, going into Survivor series, War game, something like that. But also, it can be anything. It can be animals, it can be spirits, it can be fictional characters. Who is riding with you to the big show?

[B]

Is there an amount, a number? No, no. It could just in general. Okay, well, I definitely need to bring both my dogs or that were my dogs, which would be Cali and Ellie.

[A]

Okay.

[B]

Because I need that companion.

[A]

Or Callie and Ellie. The huskies.

[B]

No. So that. That. My huskies.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Sad story. The guy that was taking care of him just ended up passing away while he was taking care of him and in an accident. Random. And the wife, when I tried to get him back, she just would not give him back. Terrible. Yeah. Very terrible. Yes.

[A]

Well, Callie and Ellie, who were they?

[B]

Callie and Ellie are the dogs that we had when we were in San Diego. Now they've been to their respective owners. Now my daughter has Ellie, and then Cali, obviously now is with my deadbeat son, so. Okay.

[A]

But they're on the dream.

[B]

That is part of my dream team.

[A]

Okay. We're getting them back.

[B]

When those dogs see me.

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

Love.

[A]

Oh, yeah. Love. Just that energy.

[B]

Yes. Yes.

[A]

The alpha. Yeah.

[B]

I definitely need my. My right hand wingman, which would be K dog. Yes. Yeah. He's been there with them with. Through everything thick and thin, so definitely would need him. And who else would I bring on board? I mean.

[A]

I mean, two dogs. And K dog is not a bad.

[B]

I mean, that's three dogs.

[A]

Yes, Three dogs.

[B]

Three dogs. Beautiful. I just keep that. That would be my dream team right there.

[A]

Three dogs.

[B]

I think I'm having a hard time with this one. I have so many people in my mind that. Who do I throw on board? But I think I'm just gonna keep my dogs. K Dog, Cali dog, and Nelly dog.

[A]

Keep it simple. Yeah. Dogs only.

[B]

Why not? They don't give you trouble. No, they just. They listen.

[A]

I mean, the track record of success is there. Katie has been with you?

[B]

Yeah. From day one.

[A]

Yeah. I love that.

[B]

Dream team. Are you crazy?

[A]

Yeah.

[B]

The dogs, the dogs.

[A]

The dogs.

[B]

Dog. Dream team.

[A]

We're gonna run this for you. This is the Wheatley American Vodka jingle commercial and I'll ask you to replace a word at the end. And again, thank you for being so generous with your time and being such a wonderful guest. This is our last little game. I'm gonna hand it over to you.

[B]

It.

[A]

Wash in Moscow always get the mule Vodka this good is an American jewel. All right. So. Wheatley so good I drink it neatly. If you could replace the word neatly, what would you put there? Wheatley so good I drink it.

[B]

Wheatley so good I drink it. Is Masley a word mask, Lee?

[A]

Yes, it is. I would call it mask.

[B]

Yeah.

[A]

Wheatley so good I drink it maskedly.

[B]

Yeah. So good I drink it maskedly.

[A]

Done.

[B]

Yeah. Then I like the way that sounds it.

[A]

Actually, that might not be our best answer. Thank you so much.

[B]

Oh, yeah. That was so much fun. Thank you, sir. Thank you. Thank you very much.

[A]

This episode is brought to you by Progressive Insurance. Do you ever find yourself playing the budgeting game? Well, with a name your price tool from Progressive, you can find options that fit your budget and potentially lower your bills. Try [e-mail] Progressive Casualty Insurance Company and affiliates. Price and coverage match limited by state law. Not available in all states.