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Above Average – The Life of a Teenage Professional Wrestler

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An alarm goes off and you wake up with a sigh. You roll over and drag yourself out of bed with a grumble and snort. Make your way to the bathroom and then possibly the breakfast table.

Stare blankly into the abyss before heading off to the paradigm of teen angst.. *gulp* HIGH SCHOOL!

You walk carelessly through the halls with your friends, worrying about such earth shattering problems as where to party over the weekend and who to hang out with while doing so.

Does that girl like me? DO I LIKE HER?! Is that smell from me?!?!?

These are just a few of the occurrences in the life of your average everyday American teenager.

But for high schooler Josh Valen, things are just a little different.

My regular readers might recognize Josh by another name thanks to my recent article on WWE Hall of Famer Jimmy Valiant’s professional wrestling training camp.

At 16 years of age, Josh “The Crippler” Valen is the youngest trainer at the BWC and to say he’s proud of this distinction, would be a MAJOR understatement.

Honestly though, the thing Josh is most proud of and SHOULD BE, is his ability to combine a solid young career as a professional wrestler with that of a full-time student and well.. kid!

To see the determination this kid has to succeed as both, is amazing.

From his 5 day a week powerlifting workouts, to the fact he’s ALWAYS to busy on the weekends to spend time with friends and just enjoy the things kids his own age enjoy.

Josh sees the light at the end of his tunnel and he’s the first to tell you, that he’s constantly reaching for that light.

“Of course school does make it a little hard on me to take my career to the next level right now. I accept that though, because an education is what’s most important in the long run. I’d love to wrestle five days a week all over the world, but right now that’s just not an option. I’m fine with that though, because it gives me a real chance and opportunity to grow as a wrestler too.”

The support Josh has from friends and family in this quest, is just as impressive as the young man himself.

“My dad travels to every show with me. I’ve been lucky enough to wrestle in a few states so far.. well, the ones my age will allow me too anyways and dad comes to every event. It really makes it easier having him there. Aside from my dad, all the guys from the camp (BWC) look out for me & each other on the road as well. Shawn Cruz and Charlie Weston are probably the two who watch out for me the most. It means a lot to me.”

I think I know what some of you may be thinking right now.. How does Josh find time for that one thing young men all over the globe find themselves thinking about constantly?

And no.. I don’t mean baseball. I’m talking girls.. “Since I’m gone mostly every weekend, it’s really hard for me to find time to go to any parties my friends are having or to go out on dates really. It’s rough, but this was the decision I made and I’ll stand by it. Besides, it keeps me out of trouble and I’m appearing at shows with legends like Jimmy Valiant! It’s amazing! I’m just like every other average everyday teenage wrestling star! HA!”

With that sort of level-headed outlook on the unusual path his life has taken, I personally admire the hell out of Josh.

That sparked a thought to your ol pal the Sickster though – How do older guys and veterans feel about this “kid” coming into their locker room and business?

An inquiry that “the Crippler” is happy to answer.. “It does indeed happen a lot. I’m VERY respectful to veterans, stars and guys who have been in this business for many years. They helped paved the way for me to even consider being a wrestler! Then you get older guys who haven’t been doing this as long as I have, and just feel the need to run their mouths and be disrespectful for no reason. I can’t let that go.. If they do that, I will call them out in a heartbeat. In the locker room, you have to! I have no problem defending myself if I’m forced to do it. But for the most part, veterans have been very supportive.”

The intensity Josh had during that last statement was fantastic. This young athlete deserved the respect shown to him, because as a first hand witness – he loves and respects the hardwork all the men & women who came before him offered up in the squared circle. That’s a fact.

To prove his love and knowledge of the sport he loves, you need look no further than his dream match list.

“Of course John Cena and the stars of today, but I really want to face “Mr. Number 1″ George South and “The Boogie Woogie Man” Rob McBride. I really respect and admire those two and their skills. Honestly though, my list of dream opponents goes on and on..”

At this point, I must admit to something I rarely just offer up.. My admiration for this young man, this athlete, this amazing manchild is off the charts.

Anyone who can devote his life to a dream that so many others have, but either can’t achieve, or just don’t have the drive &/or heart to go for that dream – impresses the hell out of ol’ Jimmy Sick.

Josh is a rarity no doubt. An old school wrestler, in a new school package.

I wanted to do something special with this story, as the subject matter is something close to my heart.

I’ve personally watched Josh grow into this young man with so much love for a business I myself love with all my heart. I want.. Hell, I KNOW he will succeed in the greatest sport on this planet.

Why am I so positive he will? Because he will make sure he does, by any means necessary. That’s what a Prodigy does!

Want a chance to see Josh “The Crippler” Valen for yourself?

I asked him what he had coming up and here’s what he had to say, plus his message to the fans. “May 5th I’ll be in action in Elkin, NC. for EAW, On April 7th I’ll be at Benjamin Franklin Middle School in Rocky Mt., VA. for ACW. I have shows popping up all year, so just stay tuned and I’ll have all the details when I get them! I’d like to tell all you guys out there – Thanks and please just keep supporting us. We do what we do, for all of you guys.”

On a final note, I went into this story looking at one direction, but have decided to go another.

I’m not “ENDING” this story, as much as I’m preparing the world for sequels. I’m going to continue to follow Josh throughout his journey and I hope that all of you will aswell.

If for no other reason than this.. Josh is living the dream for us all.

William Regal vs Dean Ambrose – WWE needs this feud on RAW!

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Dean Ambrose on the most recent episode of FCW

“The people in charge of FCW are afraid to let me do anything other than talk but I’m as good as everyone says! Everyone else around here pretends to be as good as ME. I will not be ignored anymore. There’s also someone in the arena who knows that THEY will never be able to beat me again.” as he turns and looks at Mr. William Regal at the broadcast table.

THAT is a great way to keep an amazing feud going.

As my readers already know, I’m a huge fan of both and an even bigger fan of this feud. As two of the best, most underrated and totally underutilized talents in professional wrestling, this feud makes complete sense on paper.

Something even better? IT’S GREAT IN REALITY!

The only real “problem” that I or any sane person could have with the battle of words (And actions) between these two? It’s in FCW and not on RAW!

In a perfect wrestling world, Regal would be a mainstay focus of the main event scene in the WWE.

Then one monday night this young upstart punk tries to make an example out of him. Blistering promo after promo from Ambrose, a shocking return by Regal and BOOM! Magic would happen on monday nights for months to come.

With Ambrose being this generations version of Roddy Piper (as I’ve pointed out before – with more in ring abilities), this feud would work. No if’s and’s or but’s.

William Regal doesn’t half ass anything and when he’s given the opportunity to shine – nobody in wrestling is better.

Need more convincing? Still not quite sure if this whole program is as good as I’m trying to convey? Then run face first into a rock wall.. because you’re an idiot good, sir!

These two would be phenomenal on RAW, Smackdown, TNA, DGUSA.. ANYWHERE!!!

I feel the need to explain why I prefer this feud to be out of the FCW, if it would work anywhere like I claim.

Well, as a fan of FCW and alot of the talent there, I still have to be honest… they have a very small audience. Your average every day wrestling fan, has absolutely no clue what FCW is. Sad but true!

William Regal, Dean Ambrose, the magic of this feud, uninformed fans and ALL OF US deserve to have this one on a much grander scale!

Now that I’ve gotten this SECOND rant out of the way about these two and their greatness – I’ll answer my own question.. yes.

Yes this feud would work on WWE television. Since it’s apparent we won’t be getting it though – I myself am looking forward to how it will unfold in FCW.

In the overall scheme of things – this could go down as one of the most legendary feuds FCW will ever have the chance to offer us fans.

So let’s thank them by begging for more Ambrose and Regal!

Jimmy Valiant’s Wrestling Camp – Wrestling’s Disneyland

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Your old friend and maniacal wrestling fan/voice – Jimmy Sick doesn’t always get the chance to weave a tale about something that means a lot to me personally.

The reason? Well probably because you guys could probably care less about my heartfelt type of stuff! You mean-spirited so and so’s you!

As I sat here thinking about that, I started to say myself.. MAN, if only I had a means to tell people what’s on my mind.

I recently had the opportunity and true pleasure of once again visiting WWE Hall of Famer - Mr. Jimmy “The Boogie Woogie Man” Valiant’s professional wrestling training camp.

The only word that seems fitting about the experience of visiting this mecca of wrestling history is.. well.. IMPRESSIVE.

Not just the facility itself, the 4 buildings slammed full of historical wrestling memories AND memorabilia, or the wrestling legend who owns and operates this Disneyland for wrestling fans everywhere – but the actual students are simply amazing.

Jimmy ValiantBoogie (As he’s affectionately known to EVERYONE.), really does have an amazing core of knowledge that he has passed on to hundreds of students over the years.

You need look no further than his current crop of youngsters to confirm this.

As I sat in the “Boogie’s Wrestling Camp” gym in Shawsville, VA., I was astounded at how many youngsters were here to take that first step towards becoming a real wrestler.

The reason I was amazed? Aside from the large volume of students, I was also completely enthralled with the fact – these kids were GOOD!

With as much credit going to Boogie’s hand-picked trainers as the man himself.

I sat there watching these young instructors go through move after move with these bright-eyed, smiling and so obviously excited young men & women and the realization that you’re watching someone doing something they’ve wanted to do their entire life.

All of these young people are from different areas, ethnic backgrounds, religions and social classes – but this one thing has drawn every single one of them together in this wrestling training facility in Virginia.

This magical item? A total love and appreciation for the sport of professional wrestling.Jimmy Valiant

I decided while sitting there and talking to Boogie about his campers and their progress – that I not only wanted to, but NEEDED to talk to some of them for this story.

And? Well when Jimmy Sick wants something – this silver tongue devil usually gets it!

I had the chance to speak with a couple of these promising youngsters about this experience they have chosen to devote themselves to.

As I talk to them, the shocking realization for ol Sickster was this – even with an iconic Hall of Fame Legend involved with all of this, these young wrestlers are the true  superstars!

Here’s just a couple of their fascinating stories..

 

 

Joshua Valen

Joshua "The Crippler" Valen

Joshua “The Crippler” Valen (16 Year old BWC Instructor)
————————————-
JS: What made you decide to get into professional wrestling?

JV: “I remember being 8 years old at our local civic center and seeing John Cena take on JBL. I knew that night, I wanted to be a pro wrestler!”

 
JS: How long have you been training at BWC now?

JV: “I’ve been at BWC for 5 years now. I’ve toughed it out and I’m now the youngest instructor at the camp. I love what I do, and love teaching others how to do it.”
JS: How do you honestly feel about Boogie?

JV: “I love Boogie. He’s a great man & he and Angel mean a lot to us all.”

 

JS: Where you’d like to see your career go from here?

JV: “Of course my dream is to end up in TNA or WWE, as I think that’s everyone’s dream to strive for, but honestly I’d settle for making it to FCW. Basically, I just want to be a wrestler.”

 

Dave Ebert (AKA Buddy Love from NWA Mountain State Wrestling)Dave Ebert
————————————————————-
JS: What made you decide to become a wrestler & train at BWC?

BL: “Like any wrestler today, I started as a fan. It was Monday Nitro for me. It was Sting, Hogan, and then Goldberg for me. I liked the little guys like Rey Mysterio and Juventud, but I liked the marquee guys. I was a fan. I wasn’t ‘smart’ enough to understand what I was seeing, so I didn’t have the appreciation or the background knowledge that I do now, so I didn’t know who Ric Flair, Arn Anderson, or these other legends were. I didn’t get interested in wrestling until about 1995, when I happened to flip to Nitro just in time to see Ric Flair walking to the ring, and some big old woman with about 3 teeth screamed, “I’ll kick your goddam ass, Ric Flair.” It cracked me up and I started watching. Haven’t stopped watching since.
So, I got a late start in wrestling and got a late start learning about it and enjoying it. In my junior year in high school, I learned that Roger Hamm, someone a couple of years older than me and with whom I’d gone to school and played high school football, was a wrestler. “Wait…quiet, reserved, never a peep in class Roger Hamm is a WRESTLER???” A few times I had asked him about training and becoming a wrestler, but I never followed through. In retrospect, I truly wish I had followed through and started training with Roger in those days. But, he told me he had trained at BWC and it kind of stayed on the back burner until 2004.

In 2004, I was working at Star95 FM in Princeton, WV, as a part-time DJ. A wrestling show came to the Brushfork Armory in Bluefield, WV, promoted by “Shady” Dennis Richardson, a 2011 honorary BWC Graduate. As a cross promotion between the wrestling show and the station, they decided to use a DJ as a manager in one of the matches. I jumped at the chance. I have the one advantage of being large, so that immediately helped sell me as an “enforcer.” A month later, without having trained more than horsing around and doing some…shhh!!!…backyard…I wrestled Shady in a hardcore match. He put me over after beating the hell out of me for about 15 minutes, but then I was officially hooked. So, the next thing I did was sign up to train at BWC so I could start doing this thing for real.
So, I went into wrestling backwards. I wrestled my first match with no training, a major no-no, and after that did I start training. Luckily for me, my size helped me do some things a smaller untrained wrestler would not have gotten away with.
But, Roger Hamm is the main reason I chose BWC as my training grounds.”

JS: That’s an amazing road to the BWC. How long have you been going to the camp?

BL: “I started attending in 2005. I graduated in 2006. I’ve been visiting off and on since then. Due to work and the price of gas, I haven’t attended as often as I like. It’s fun now to get in there and try to shape some of the rookies and teach them the ropes. Pun intended.”
JS: Thoughts on the training you’ve received?

BL: “I love the guys that trained me. Rick Kelly and Scotty Rocker were regularly there, as well as Shawn Christian, who is the main trainer now. I wish I would have been able to attend more often during my first year. I didn’t get the amount development I needed in that time. If I’d been able to attend more often, I’d be a lot further along in my career.
 
Sometimes I do wish there was more of a try-out and merit-based acceptance policy on who becomes a student. I think that there are some people just not cut out for this business, whether it’s a mental or physical block, there are some people not meant to be in the ring. Sometimes by having several kids in a ring who just aren’t getting it, injury risks go up, as well as stunting the development of some of the other kids who have a shot. This isn’t meanT as an insult or knock, but it is not an uncommon opinion.”

JS: How has the training here helped you throughout your wrestling career so far?

BL: “It’s taught me to value my time in the ring and treat everyone with respect. It has taught me the value of showing up, working hard, and doing what is asked of you. I have never been, nor ever will be, the best worker on a given card. But, I show up, show respect, do what is asked, and don’t complain or cause heat backstage. By doing so, people respect me and appreciate me, and I keep getting work because of that attitude.”
JS: Outstanding response! What are you honest feelings about Boogie and his love for this business?

BL: “Boogie is awesome. He is the man. His love for his students, trainers, and the business is unmatched. BWC and Boogie give you, if you’re a veteran, a place to escape from the bullsh!t side of the wrestling business and go back to the most enjoyable parts of wrestling.”

JS: Couldn’t agree more! Anything else you’d like the fans and readers to know?

BL: “Well, just this.. I love wrestling and wish I had started in or shortly after high school. As for any goals, I am a realist. I don’t plan on or hope to get to WWE or TNA or ROH. I will enjoy sticking around this region, making gas money, and going out to tell a story. But, if my phone rings and one of the ‘big three’ are asking me if I am available, hell yeah I’d be available. Will that happen? Not likely.
In my short career, I’ve been lucky to share the ring with some big time talent. “Names” I have worked with include Shane Douglas, Flair…ok, David Flair…, Rick Steiner, Disco Inferno, and had the privilege of putting ODB over just prior to her first TNA debut. I saw her at a TNA show in Beckley this year and she remembered it. I told her it was her ‘biggest’ win of her career.
I enjoy coming to BWC and adding a different perspective to the training. I think that no matter how much time you put in the ring at BWC, though, you don’t learn the business until you start working. The biggest tool a young wrestler can have is the ability to shut up and listen, in the locker room, in the ring, when you’re out with the boys, or wherever. Shut up and listen. Let the veterans call everything. Shut up and listen. Shake hands with everyone you meet at a show and introduce yourself, as you never know who is who, and it’s better to shake too many hands than not enough. Oh, and Shut up and listen!”

JS: LOL! Outstanding and spot on! Would you like to tell everyone about the NWA MSW shows that are coming up?

BL: “I’d LOVE too! (<– Buddy Love reference) We wrestle on pretty much a weekly basis. The link to the NWA MSW group is http://www.facebook.com/groups/299831560053/ so people can join, and then follow us throughout West Virginia. We air on Fox59 WVNS-TV every Sunday at 11am. On April 6, 2012, we are holding our next iPPV, a card which will include current NWA National Champion Chance Prophet, NWA MSW Heavyweight Champion Lance Erikson, NWA Dawg Champion Damien Wayne, and many others. Fans can visit NWAMountainState.com for details, or the Facebook group page.”

JS: Thanks a million, Mr. Buddy Love!
BL: “Thank you! I’m glad to help.”

 

There you have it.. Just a couple of the MANY stories that could be, (And I’m sure WILL BE) written about the students from this amazing school/camp/training facility/FAMILY.

As I stated earlier, even with a bonified pro wrestling legend at the helm of this experience, the students are the true story here.

Even if none of these kids make it to the “big time”, even if some of them decide the life of a wrestler isn’t the life they really want to continue to pursue – they can still look back at their time at the BWC and smile, because they were able to do something that most of us can only wish for.

These men & women made their first step towards their dream. Think about that.. It’s simply amazing. And.. for all you fans out there who would just enjoy visiting this extraordinary temple of wrestling goodness – then you are in luck!

The camp is open 52 Sundays a year. The cost? Absolutely free! Where are you going to find a better deal than that?!

I think the only fitting way to end this story is by telling any and everyone out there who is even CONSIDERING becoming a professional wrestler, do yourself a real favor and make sure you look into the world-famous BOOGIE’S WRESTLING CAMP first!

For all those interested in living your dream or for those obsessive wrestling fans out there who just want to see this wonderland up close and personal – PLEASE check out their website here: http://jimmyvaliant.weebly.com/about-bwc.html

Jimmy Valiant's Wrestling Camp

 

 

Interview with Steve Corino

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steve-corinoLet me start by saying this, it’s not everyday that someone gets to sit down for an interview with one of their all time favorite athletes, but this guy just got that chance! Steve Corino has been a favorite of mine for quite a few years now, so to say I was pretty excited, would be an understatement! Well.. enough with the buildup – HERE WE GO!

Jimmy Sick: I’d like to thank you for agreeing to this interview Mr. Corino! It’s one I’ve been looking forward to for a while now.

Steve Corino: “Thanks and no problem Jimmy.”

 

JS: Well let me start by asking were you a wrestling fan growing up?

SC: “I started watching pro-wrestling when I was 8 years old. My parents had just gotten cable TV and Georgia Championship Wrestling was on “Superstation 17″, which turned into WTBS, and WWF’s Spectrum Wrestling was played live on Prism.”
 
JS: That’s some good wrestling watching there! Who were some of your favorites?

SC: “Tons of guys: Tommy Rich, Eddie Gilbert, Tully Blanchard, Barry Windham, Ric Flair, The Midnight Express, The Rock ‘n” Roll Express, Dusty Rhodes, Jumbo Tsurta, Mr. Wrestling II, Riki Choshu the list goes on & on.”
 

 

steve-corino

Custom Graphics by T.E.C. Customs

JS: Our lists are alot alike apparently. LOL When did you decide to get into the wrestling business?

SC: “In early 1994, I was almost 21 years old and it was either I try or think about it the rest of my life. All I wanted to be told was no. No, I wasn’t big enough. No, I wasn’t strong enough. No, I wasn’t athletic enough. But I worked hard and made believers of everyone I could.”
 

 

JS: Did you hear “NO” alot in the beginning?

SC: “No. I was super lucky. I would get chance to run with the ball and my goal was always to score a touchdown.”

 

 

JS: Who helped you out most and really “took you under their wing?”

SC: “This is where I got really lucky. So many guys took me under their wing. Guys you may never have heard of like King Kaluha, Mark Mest, plus name guys like Jim Cornette, Dusty Rhodes, Dory Funk Jr., Mr. Wrestling II, Dutch Mantel, Shinya Hashimoto. I am the luckiest guy in pro-wrestling history. Lots of great teachers.”
 
JS: Wow! You did indeed get lucky with the mentoring. Thoughts on your first match? How do you feel the match went?

SC: “My first match was against one of my trainers Mark Mest. Now Mark is no small man. 5’11, 450 lbs and is the nicest guy you’d ever want to meet. Unless you disrespect him! He took such good care of me and made me look like I had way more experience than I really did.”
 

steve-corino

Custom Graphics by T.E.C. Customs

JS: That’s a pretty hefty size differential there! Glad he thought so highly of you. Thoughts on the first time you saw yourself wrestling on tv?

SC: “Its a bit freaky. They say we are all our worst critics and I am the absolute worst. Even know, 18 years later, I break down everything I did wrong on TV. You always have to strive to improve.”
 
JS: I understand how that goes.. the self criticsm that is. As your harshest critic, do you ever see good in what you’ve done now?

SC: “I do. I like a lot of my work in MLW, ROH, and Japan. A lot of things that I loved where because of how the fans reacted to a certain thing that I was trying to do.”

 
JS: The fan reactions were spot on, because it was quality work honestly.

SC: “Thanks!”

 
JS: Early in your career you regularly appeared in Matt & Jeff Hardy’s OMEGA promotion. Any memories of your time there, or the fed in general?

SC: “OMEGA was so ahead of its time. Matt Hardy had this great vision and so did Thomas Simpson. I truly believe that if we all didn’t get picked up by the bigger promotions, OMEGA would have been where ROH is now. Think about how many guys there that went on to the big time: Matt, Jeff Hardy, Shannon Moore, Shane Helms, myself, Joey Mercury, Christian York, Mike Maverick (Dupps in ECW and WWE), Otto Schwanz (Dupps), Marty Garner (Dupps and Rock’s personal assistant for a few years), CW Anderson, and more.”
 

 

JS: I completely agree about OMEGA! The talent there was just INSANE. If it had stayed open, do you THINK you might have wrestled there for a majority of your career?

SC: “I would have moved on. Besides my 11 year run in ZERO1, I have tried to come and go. Keeps me fresh.”

 

JS: Good point. What are some of your thoughts on your time as Lightning Kid 2 in Puerto Rico?

SC: “I had no idea who “Lightning Kid 2″ was until I arrived in Puerto Rico! LOL. No one told me I was doing that gimmick. All of my gear had “CORINO” on it. I think Lightning Kid 2 lasted for about two weeks before they just started calling me Steve Corino.”
 

 

JS: LOL! That’s awesome. I think we’ve all heard atleast a story or two about how things go there, but do you have any horror stories about wrestling in Puerto Rico?

SC: “Besides being ribbed by Invader for my first few weeks, it was OK. I was a babyface and at the time people still believed so I didn’t have bottles of urine thrown at me like the heels did!
 
I did almost have a gun drawn on me and Guillotine LeGrande in 2009. I was getting heat on the outside when a guy went into his jacket and security tackled him. Then Carlos Colon yelled at me because he said I should have known that no one wears a jacket in Puerto Rico! Its always hot!!!”

 
JS: Yikes! He’s right about the jackets though. LOL! How was Carlos Colon to work for overall?

SC: “I hate Carlos Colon. Always will. He treats his wrestlers bad, starves them, and doesn’t pay them. But you know that going in. You know you are going to end up getting screwed eventually. It is a shame because I love the island of Puerto Rico and I love the wrestling down there, but I hate the lies. People always talk about how Paul Heyman lies, no one lies more than Carlos Colon.”
 
JS: Ouch.. That bad huh? Well, since you brought up Paul Heyman – What are some of your thoughts on the greatness/PERFECTION that was your run in ECW. Favorite memories of that era?

SC: “I had a lot of fun. I learned so much about different styles, TV production, and how a real company works. I had limited experience in the USWA (Memphis) and Puerto Rico, and this was the first real-company experience I got. I loved it. But I don’t miss it.”

 
JS: You don’t miss the ECW hardcore style?

SC: “Yes. It takes a toll on your body and mind. Plus I would have wanted to move on. It was always my dream to wrestle in Japan. I had a great time in ECW but eventually I would have had to go. My body wouldn’t have been able to keep up with that style forever.”
 

 

JS: I can see that. I don’t know how alot of those guys are still going so strong today. Memories of working with Dusty Rhodes in ECW?

SC: “He was the guy that put me on the map. I was the “King Of Old School” before he came to ECW and feuding with Taz and Tommy Dreamer got me heat, but they weren’t “old school”. When Dusty came to ECW, it legitimized the gimmick forever.
 
I learned how to slow down with Dusty and really listen to a crowd. He used to say “Kid, the crowd will tell us what to do tonight” and he was right. What an honor!”

 

 

steve-corino

Custom Graphics by T.E.C. Customs

JS: That was such an incredible feud. You guys were just a perfect mesh of styles. Really enjoyed watching you guys go!

Sc: “Thanks for that.”

 
JS: Not a problem, I meant it! Now was it true you weren’t being paid your promised salary towards in the end of your ECW run? (Or any other time in ECW for that matter. LOL)

SC: “No one was but that is what happens when a company is starting to go under. Its not like Paul Heyman didn’t want to pay us. He did the best he could. I really feel for him in that respect. But no matter how many dollars I was owed, I got so much more in knowledge that I probably owed him money!”

 
JS: That’s a great response and an even better way to put it.  I know Paul Heyman has caught alot of flack over the years with how things ended up in ECW, but do you think he could still be in charge of a company somewhere and make a successful run with it?

SC: “I sure do. The guy is a genius when it comes to putting a pro-wrestling story together. He just needs a chance to work alone.”
 

 

JS: How did you feel about signing with WCW?

SC: “I wasn’t passionate about it. I was more worried about paying bills. I was hoping it would work out though.”

 
JS: Although you weren’t passionate about signing with WCW, do you think you could have had a successful run there?

SC: “In WCW you were always at the mercy of the bookers. In ECW, Paul pushed you if you were over. I would have been successful money-wise but maybe not in-ring wise.”

 
JS: How did you feel about the whole deal falling through after Vince McMahon purchased WCW?
 
SC: “Is “awe shit” the right answer? Haha.”

 
JS: The BEST answer honestly! HAHA!

SC: “But seriously, I had a feeling it was coming. Dusty had pretty much told me that Eric Bischoff’s new company was not going to buy the company, so I knew I would be let go.”
 

 

JS: Were you ever bitter towards the WWE for not taking the chance on signing you? I have to admit I was and still kinda am.

SC “God no. You can’t be bitter. There are a lot of horses in the stable right? You fall off one and you get on another. Too many guys think that the WWE is the only place for them. I would have loved to make money there but I am not bitter at all that they didn’t hire me.”
 

 

JS: Why do you believe they never took the chance?

SC: “A lot of reasons. My body isn’t WWE style. It is more suited for a Japan style. My work is not sports entertainment style. I think I have a reputation of standing up too much for myself (which I don’t think is true! LOL).”

 
JS: I can see what you mean there. Speaking of the Japanese style – Thoughts on working Japan & the fans?

SC: “They are the best. I love the country, the culture, the fans, and the people. Love it. I would move there one day if I could.”

 
JS: It really is a beautiful place. What are some of you memories of working in Dusty Rhodes’ Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling?

SC: “So much fun! It was like a throwback company. And we had guys like Dusty, Barry Windham, Dustin Rhodes, Scotty Riggs, Glacier, CW, Lodi, and a ton of young guys. It is where Cody Rhodes got in the ring to train.”
 

 
JS: There really was some amazing talent there. That was one company I would have LOVED to see still going strong today. Thoughts on your Horsemen stable?

SC: “The Extreme Horsemen were born in TCW. Dusty had an idea of putting me, CW, and Barry Windham together and calling us The Elite, but I thought “Hmmm, me and CW just came from ECW and Barry is a Horseman…Extreme Horsemen.” Dusty hated it at first until Barry said he liked it!
 
Simon Diamond was someone we always wanted in. There was talk in ECW that Simon, CW, myself, and Jack Victory would be together but that was scrapped when I turned babyface.”

 

 

JS: That would have been a great group! What are some of you memories of your TNA appearances in the early days of the company?
 
SC: “The TNA of 2003 and TNA now are almost two different companies. When I was there it was very unorganized.”

 
JS: Really? Was it that bad? Thoughts of the locker room there at the time?

SC: “It was OK I guess, I had a problem with my pay and where we flew every week. I didn’t care what they did with our characters but I wanted to be paid what I was promised. I wish I was there now and kept my mouth shut because they seem to have their stuff together, but I was pretty much only booked to be Sandman’s babysitter.”

 
JS: Was Sandman really uh.. well, for lack of a better word, “BAD” at that point, or were they just nervous that he was?

SC: “Probably a bit of both! LOL.”
 

 

JS: HA! Well.. that’s the Sandman! The night you Debuted in ROH and entered into your 4 year rivalry with Homicide, did you guys expect that to be as successful as it was?

SC: “It was one of those feuds that you couldn’t write on paper and think it would work. Gabe needed a team to work with The Backseat Boyz and both of us volunteered. From there Gabe said for me to turn on him during the match, and it just took off.”

 
JS: Thoughts on working with Homicide?

SC: “He’s so talented and I think I deserve a bit of credit for “making him”. He probably would have made it without me but I helped. He was/is a huge Terry Funk fan and we both loved the Funk-Dusty feud and love how they lived the feud 24/7. That is what we did. To the point where we would complain to Gabe that it was going too far.”

 
JS: I totally agree about you helping to make Homicide and I sincerely mean that. Was there ever any legitimate bad blood between the two of you?

SC: “We aren’t friends but I think he respects me as much as I respect him.”
 

 

JS: Thoughts on CM Punk, Bryan Danielson & Samoa Joe during that time? Did you feel they would rise to the level they have?

SC: “Those guys were awesome 10 years ago. I would have been more surprised if they didn’t have the success they have now. All three are so dedicated to their craft. I am very proud of them.”
 

 

JS: Fantastic answer. What are some of your memories of your time as Mr. Wrestling 3?

SC: “At first I turned it down. I was ready to leave pro-wrestling and I was in Hawaii wrestling and Mr. Wrestling II and I struck up a friendship. He was like a mentor to me and offered it to me. Then he explained that Mr. Wrestling 3 needed to be different then Mr. Wrestling and Mr. Wrestling II. That is when I gave the idea that it would be like a super hero type gimmick.

Beat “Steve Corino” to the point where he had to give up OR he finds that extra strength and puts on the costume. It gets over much better in Japan.”

 
JS: Anyone who hasn’t seen you do it, they need to! It was a great gimmick. Your thoughts on Kevin Steen and your recent much talked about ROH feud with him?
 

SC: “This kid is not your stereotypical ROH wrestler but there is no one more over right now. And he works hard. He is so smart and he’s only 27. I truly believe that one day Kevin Steen will be known as a great booker.
 
My feud was well done with him. Although I preferred teaming with him more.”

 
JS: That’s pretty high praise for Mr. Steen. Out of curiousity, Is there anyone that you’ve never had a chance to work with, that you wish you could?

SC: “Eddie Gilbert no doubt. He was probably my favorite of all time and passed away when I was a rookie. He was just amazing.”

 
JS: Eddie Gilbert was such an amazing talent. Could wrestle a classic match one night and then a savage hardcore match the next. A match between you two would have been outstanding! What are your thoughts on today’s wrestling product as a whole?

SC: “Honestly, its as good as it ever has been. Fans don’t realize that pro-wrestling evolves so much. What worked in the 40′s didn’t work in the 60′s. What worked in the 60′s didn’t work in the 80′s and so on. Vince McMahon knew this and coined his own brand “sports entertainment”. Its just a different style of pro-wrestling and it really is entertaining.”

 
JS:How long do you feel you will/can continue wrestling?

SC: “As long as the body holds up. I am almost 39 years old and tried to retire twice. It doesn’t work. Wrestlers don’t retire, they die. Plus my son, Colby, has started wrestling and it is a lot of fun to be on the road with him.”
 
JS: Your son is an amazing young talent aswell by the way.

SC: “Thank you for that!”

 
JS: Not a problem. Any message to your fellow wrestlers out there?

SC: “Keep doing your thing. This crappy economy can’t last forever. Pro-wrestling is not dead by any stretch of the imagination, but the economy hurts it direction right now. Don’t quit. The better the economy, the more money fans will have to come out to shows. Take this as your chance to get experience and get better so when the next boom comes you are ready.”
 
JS: Lastly – Any message for your many fans out there?

SC: “Thanks for the support. Fans get a bad rap sometimes because they are tough critics but 99% of them are great. You can’t let the negativity of some fans discourage you. Fans are fans and they are the reason you do what you do. Going out there and making them react is the greatest high you can ever experience.”

 

JS: Where can people stay in contact with and enjoy the “King of Old School” Mr. Steve Corino these days?
SC: “Well everyone can head over to www.WorldOfCORINO.com and also follow me on Twitter @SteveCorino. And for a great Podcast, listen (and subscribe on iTunes) to the Extreme Odd Couple Podcast w/me and Rob Dimension at www.XOCPodcast.com. Over 12,000 subscribers so far!!!”

 
JS: I have to agree, the Extreme odd Couple Podcasts are HILARIOUS! You and Rob have a dynamic that is just insane. LOL  Well, I’d like to sincerely thank you Mr. Corino for taking time out of your busy schedule to give this great interview.

SC: “No problem at all, Jimmy!”
Nothing better than when you get to chat with someone you really admire and they’re exactly how you hoped they’d be and this is one of those times, folks.

Steve Corino is as honest and open as he is terrific between the ropes and you couldn’t ask for more from a wrestling great.

You guys make sure you do yourself a favor and check out his Extreme Odd Couple Podcast at www.XOCPodcast.com. It’s HYSTERICAL!

I would like to give a special thanks to T.E.C. Customs for the custom graphics they supplied for this article.

If you have any needs for custom work hit them up on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/#!/teccustoms36 and be sure to follow them on Twitter https://twitter.com/#!/40DropRecords. They can make custom ANYTHING!

 
 Until next time folks, I do believe I’m going to watch some old ECW videos now.

 

WWE Wrestlemania 28 – The Best Wrestlemania Ever?

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The push begins for Wrestlemania 28

Not even 24 hours removed from last night’s episode of WWE monday night RAW and still I sit here thinking.. well.. WHOA!

If you look at it from every single angle, that show had EVERYTHING needed to follow-up a great pay per view AND to start the WWE Wrestlemania 28 push.

 Well, let me start at the beginning I suppose.. How odd was that Eve heel turn?

 If anyone knows the ways of a black magic woman – it’s Jimmy Sick, but that whole thing came out of NO WHERE!

For her ability to make me cheer on John Cena, Eve should at least get a tip of the cap.

 

Sheamus vs. Bryan -  I have a feeling that this one is going to be pretty special.

We finally found out that 2012 Royal Rumble winner Sheamus has chosen to take on Daniel Bryan for the World Heavyweight championship at Wrestlemania 28 over the weekend and Sheamus beat the nearly indestructible former World champ Mark Henry last night in a statement to Bryan.

Bryan’s rebuttal? He brought Santino back down to Earth pretty quickly in a short and to the point match.

Maybe this match can FINALLY get what it deserves and actually make it on the show! I have a feeling that this one is going to be pretty special.

We saw the war of words between John Laurinaitis & Teddy Long heating up.

Is this leading to a Smackdown vs. RAW match of some sort at Mania?

Maybe a tag team match, since the rumors of the Money in the Bank match marking its return, might have been jeopardized in the main event last night ?(More on that soon enough!)

Honestly, I wish they would get to the competitors in this one, as both Laurainaitis and Long annoy me in their own special ways.

Yeah.. I said it. Only thing I ask for in this crazy uncertain world.. put David Otunga in the match please.

Like him or hate him (I’m guessing by the reactions, most fans fall under the HATE umbrella when it comes to Mr. Otunga.), the guy is super intelligent, fun to watch and I think he could bring A LOT to this program/angle.

I know I know.. You probably don’t agree. Oh well.. IT’S MY SITE!

A lot of WWE Diva involvement here and there throughout the show, but the one thing I wanted, begged for and CRAVED to see – was a set up for a Kharma, Beth Phoenix and Natalya Neidhart match at Wrestlemania 28.

I want to take a moment to preach from the heart and as a man who has been a loyal follower of this great sport my entire life, this should tell you how I feel about this match.

With these 3 ladies (In any pairing honestly!), involved in a match at Wrestlemania in ANY way – The match would be the absolute greatest ladies match in the history of the sport.

You look at those 3 specific talents and imagine the battles, the promos, the matches and the happiness. Happiness?! Yes.. in all of our hearts after watching the perfection that would no doubt be brought forth by these talented athletes. That’s it. End of story. Print it!

Anyways, they didn’t step forward with that, which saddens me in a way. Because with all of the greatness that this Mania is bringing to the table, I’d hate for a match involving any of these ladies to be brushed aside. None of us deserve that. Let’s get on the ball here WWE!

R-Truth and Kofi Kingston

Last night we were also introduced to a new tag pairing, that I have to admit to enjoying immensely. R-Truth and Kofi Kingston placed together as partners seems like a weird idea, but it really had a good feel to it. Natural almost.

I really believe I could get behind that team, and I’m not a Kofi supporter at all. I’ve always believed he smiles entirely too much.

 Jimmy Sick don’t like no smiles! R-Truth with his own unique take on.. umm.. crazy, just mingles to perfection with Kofi for some odd reason.

Plus let’s be honest, both of these guys are just athletic as all hell and it’s good to see them being used frankly.

Their non title victory over the WWE tag champions, Huncio & Epico, all but bluntly tells us they’ll be facing each other at Mania. I truly hope they can find a way to add the Uso’s into the mix before the big event though.

I’d actually like to see that match a lot.

 Well.. I think it’s time to address the biggest issues of all. Let me start by saying this, all of you loyal readers know about my love hate relationship with Mr. John Cena, but both Sunday & Monday – the man brought it.

The match with Kane at the Elimination Chamber ppv, all be it very short – was brutal and very poignant.

His promo last night about the Rock was plain and simply amazing. That’s the WWE wrestler John Cena people want on a weekly basis!

The match between John Cena and The Rock is so much bigger than wrestler vs wrestler, actor vs hater, or legend vs legend in the making.

We all know this is the battle of eras. When those types of battles happen in professional wrestling, it should capture the entire embodiment of our love for this sport.

To me personally, this one is beginning to achieve that magic. These two men are talking us into this match. It’s not the physicality that has us completely enthralled, it’s the voice of these men. It’s astonishing to watch unfold, if you truly look at it from all sides.

When the Rock appears next week, we will all be watching just to hear his retort, not to see a fight or even one single punch get thrown. That amazes me.

With the build up this match is garnering, I’m not sure if it can live up to the hype, but to me personally.. it already has in a way.

 Next up? CM Punk still didn’t have an opponent “OFFICIALLY” for Wrestlemania, so enter the Losing competitors at Elimination Chamber’s battle royal.

You might want to write this down. It’s actually a pretty rare occasion. I’m honestly speechless with the results of this battle royal.

Between the clustered spots, injuries and possible set up for other feuds. MIND BOGGLING!

Let me first throw out there, that it appeared they were setting up a Cody Rhodes vs. Big Show feud. Which is honestly a little surprising to me, as I (like everyone else I’m sure.) had heard the rumors about Goldust vs Cody at Mania.

PLUS, with Shaquille O’Neal announcing over the weekend he was heading to Wrestlemania - I thought Shaq vs Big Show was a lock!

I will say this, I think these two could have an excellent match. No doubt about that to me, but Goldust vs Cody was a match I was personally praying to the wrestling Gods to see.

I think Goldust deserved that match and recognition of his greatness and Cody would have made him look like a million bucks. I’m really let down if that match doesn’t take place.

Shaq vs Big show? Um.. would have drawn a lot of attention to the show. Hmm.. I guess that’s about all I got!

Looking forward to seeing where they go with this one though.

Should be fun watching the miserable and pissed off giant, go after the young, brash, good-looking kid who thinks he can do no wrong.

 The Miz has fallen hard and FAST. I just don’t understand that. I wish I had more to add here, but I don’t know if he’ll even be at Mania this year. THE MAN WAS IN THE MAIN EVENT LAST YEAR!

Well I suppose it’s time for me to talk about the bad part of such a great show and main event – the injuries.

Before I begin, the blame everyone seems to be throwing at the Big Show is completely unwarranted. C’mon folks.. accidents happen.

These athletes do the hardest job in the world and they get hurt doing it. Period!

Theres is an art form and there’s no way you can blame Show for this.

Wade Barrett as some of you know is a favorite of mine, and the horror I felt when I heard him scream that expletive and hold his arm, is indescribable.

The man’s stock was majorly on the rise and to see his Wrestlemania hopes dashed was so sad.

On a side note, I’d like to wish Wade all the best for a speedy recovery!

Now onto the winner here, besides us fans that is, Chris Jericho.

We got our match people. The 2 BEST IN THE WORLD are going to face off at the Showcase of the Immortals.

The two men we had hoped would stand in the middle of a wrestling ring at the grandest stage of them all, will do just that.

On a show filled with Legends, HOFers, GODS – this match will absolutely steal the show.

Chisel that into stone my friends – because it’s the most factual fact you will ever read. I sincerely like to believe that the WWE has no idea what so ever that Chris Jericho facing off against CM Punk is every bit as important to us fans as John Cena vs The Rock.

It’s an era, vs an era in my eyes. How much I’m looking forward to this match, would take some Shakespearean style writing skills. Which I do have.. but still.

That will be one WWE Championship match that fans will NEED to see for years to come. I think I might be under selling it! You get my point though – going to be incredible.

Finally, what can your old pal and faithful wrestling narrator, even say about the Undertaker and Triple H match that hasn’t been said a million times recently?

How about this.. Hell in a Cell.

I think the 3 words that best summed up everyone’s thoughts, when Triple H forcefully spoke the HIS 3 words (“Hell in a Cell”), was OH MY GOD.

This match is the epitome of end-all, be-all when it comes to wrestling closure.

These two men are going to give us something that we want, that will just top off the night, after all the amazing action we’re going to see that night.

What is the thing they’re gong to give us you might ask? Jeez you ask a lot of questions!

I’m gonna tell you! Blood, Gore and violence. Something we don’t often see from the WWE these days.

Can Taker keep his streak alive in the match HE made famous?

Can Triple H up his level of violence from last year to get that victory he craves?

Can Triple H finally prove to everyone, most importantly himself, that he is better than his friend and mentor, Shawn Michaels? (Not to me by the way, because HBK is an Icon!)

Can Undertaker just survive a battle with the Game this time around?

All of these questions and SO MANY MORE will be answered on April 1st.

For all the flack the WWE gets, (And trust me, I do my fair share of flack givin’ when it comes to them.) this Wrestlemania, the 28th installment, is shaping up to be the greatest ever.

Only thing missing is the Mantaur!

Until next time people, remember to enjoy this time of year, for a wrestling fan – it doesn’t get any better!