Podcast Summary: "Ricky Saints" Episode of What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes
Podcast Information:
- Title: What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes
- Host/Author: WWE x Fanatics Podcasts
- Episode: Ricky Saints
- Release Date: July 9, 2025
Introduction
In this engaging episode of What Do You Wanna Talk About? with Cody Rhodes, host Cody Rhodes welcomes Ricky Saints, marking the first time an NXT talent joins the conversation. The atmosphere is relaxed and candid as Cody and Ricky embark on an unfiltered discussion about Ricky's journey in professional wrestling, personal struggles, and the intricacies of navigating relationships within the WWE universe.
Early Friendship and Background
Cody introduces Ricky as a classic WPA (Workplace Proximity Associate) and emphasizes their long-standing friendship. Ricky humbly acknowledges Cody's support and expresses pride in his own achievements and aspirations.
Notable Quote:
Cody Rhodes [02:07]: "Wow. So we got you on the pod. You're familiar with the bus. You're familiar with drinking on the bus."
Journey Through NWA and Signing with WWE
Ricky recounts his path to being signed with the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). He shares how creating vignettes and promoting his character on social media caught the attention of Nick Aldis, leading to his first contract offer. However, Ricky declined, sensing a ceiling in his growth, a decision that proved fortuitous as the pandemic hit shortly after.
Notable Quote:
Ricky Saints [08:06]: "It was a long time coming."
Cody humorously reflects on the advice given by his Uncle Arn about spending money, highlighting the ups and downs of Ricky's early career decisions.
Personal Struggles and Growth
Delving into personal matters, Ricky opens up about his experiences growing up with a lighter skin tone in an all-black school in New Orleans. This unique racial identity often placed him in conflicts and feelings of not fitting in, leading to frequent altercations and emotional turmoil.
Notable Quote:
Ricky Saints [39:00]: "I was always in fights, always in some type of issue because people just thought I was white."
Ricky discusses his journey towards self-acceptance and learning to manage his temper, emphasizing the importance of understanding oneself and not letting others' perceptions define him.
Training, Mentorship, and Relationships in WWE
Ricky shares insights about his training regimen and the significance of mentorship in the wrestling industry. He credits his trainer, George Dilly Isla, for foundational skills and emphasizes the value of learning through observation and experience.
Notable Quote:
Ricky Saints [22:05]: "There's a guy in Austin. His name is George Dilly Isla. He used to be called Mr. Mexico."
Cody reflects on his own mentorship experiences with legends like Triple H and Shawn Michaels, drawing parallels with Ricky's journey and the importance of guidance in shaping a wrestler's career.
Navigating Relationships and Loyalty
A deep dive into the dynamics of friendships within the high-pressure environment of WWE, Ricky underscores his commitment to loyalty and the challenges of maintaining genuine connections. He recounts instances where his support for Cody and others solidified his reputation as a dependable friend, despite potential professional risks.
Notable Quote:
Ricky Saints [48:25]: "I will never let somebody weaponize a friendship against me."
Cody echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of showing up for friends and the profound impact of being seen, heard, and understood.
Advice and Reflections
Cody and Ricky offer valuable advice to aspiring wrestlers, stressing the significance of perseverance, self-promotion, and emotional intelligence. They discuss the evolving nature of the wrestling industry, the necessity of adaptability, and the importance of building a supportive network.
Notable Quote:
Cody Rhodes [25:54]: "Wrestling is not always wrestling. ... The idea of selling hope is something that you're not going to learn when you're going over hip tosses."
Cultural and Personal Interests
Beyond wrestling, Ricky shares his love for food, particularly New Orleans' authentic po' boys and beignets, reflecting his deep connection to his roots. Cody complements the conversation by discussing his own personal interests and interactions outside the ring, including a memorable encounter with Matthew McConaughey.
Notable Quote:
Ricky Saints [32:04]: "I do like beignets. ... The best time to get beignets is at, like, 2am."
Conclusion
As the episode wraps up, Cody and Ricky reflect on their shared experiences and the enduring strength of their friendship. They emphasize the importance of community, mutual support, and the relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth. The conversation leaves listeners with a profound understanding of Ricky Saints' journey, his resilience, and his unwavering loyalty.
Final Notable Quote:
Cody Rhodes [62:34]: "My rule for friendship is simple. You have to show up."
Key Insights:
- Resilience and Adaptability: Ricky's ability to navigate career challenges and personal struggles showcases the importance of resilience in the wrestling industry.
- Mentorship Matters: Both Cody and Ricky highlight the pivotal role of mentors in shaping their careers and personal development.
- Emotional Intelligence: Managing emotions and understanding oneself are crucial for personal growth and professional success.
- Loyalty and Relationships: Building and maintaining genuine friendships can significantly impact one's career trajectory and personal well-being.
This episode offers a heartfelt and comprehensive look into Ricky Saints' life, providing listeners with inspiration and valuable lessons from the world of professional wrestling.