In a recent appearance on the “Inside the Ropes” podcast, AEW Continental Classic Champion Eddie Kingston recalled his 2017 WWE tryout.
Kingston revealed that the opportunity came when WWE prepared for the Mae Young Classic in July 2017.
The Mad King was offered a coaching position at the WWE Performance Center but declined it, as he didn’t want to be a “gatekeeper” to people he didn’t know.
Kingston said, “A friend of mine hooked me up with it because he believed in me. But I went there with this attitude of ‘Whatever, f**k it. I don’t really care.’ I didn’t really care, I was like ‘they’re not looking at me anyway.’
As soon as they saw me say hello to Kevin Owens and he gave me a hug, and a couple of other people that were there, next thing you know the next day everybody was my friend.”
Eddie Kingston Reflects on His WWE Tryout Experience
Professional wrestler Eddie Kingston, currently holding the AEW Continental Classic Championship, recently opened up about his 2017 WWE tryout in a candid interview on the “Inside the Ropes” podcast. Kingston shared his thoughts and experiences during the tryout, shedding light on his mindset and the opportunities that arose from it.
The WWE tryout came about when the company was preparing for the Mae Young Classic in July 2017. Kingston revealed that a friend of his had recommended him for the opportunity, believing in his talent and potential. However, Kingston admitted that he approached the tryout with a nonchalant attitude, thinking that the company wouldn’t pay much attention to him.
“I went there with this attitude of ‘Whatever, f**k it. I don’t really care.’ I didn’t really care, I was like ‘they’re not looking at me anyway,'” Kingston said.
Despite his initial indifference, Kingston’s perception quickly changed when he interacted with fellow wrestlers at the tryout. He mentioned how a simple greeting from Kevin Owens, who gave him a hug, and other wrestlers present instantly transformed the atmosphere. Suddenly, everyone seemed to befriend him.
This revelation highlights the power of connections and networking within the wrestling industry. Even though Kingston initially believed he wouldn’t be noticed, a friendly interaction with established wrestlers opened doors for him. It serves as a reminder that building relationships and treating others with respect can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Interestingly, Kingston also mentioned that he was offered a coaching position at the WWE Performance Center during the tryout. However, he declined the offer, explaining that he didn’t want to become a “gatekeeper” to people he didn’t know. This decision reflects Kingston’s integrity and desire to maintain authenticity in his career.
Kingston’s story serves as an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers and individuals in any field. It emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of uncertainty or doubt. Kingston’s genuine attitude and the connections he made during the tryout ultimately played a significant role in his wrestling journey.
Since his WWE tryout, Eddie Kingston has found success in All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he currently holds the AEW Continental Classic Championship. His story is a testament to the unpredictable nature of the wrestling industry and the potential for unexpected opportunities to arise.
In conclusion, Eddie Kingston’s recollection of his 2017 WWE tryout offers valuable insights into the world of professional wrestling. It highlights the significance of connections, authenticity, and maintaining a positive attitude. Kingston’s story serves as a reminder that even when we least expect it, doors can open, and opportunities can arise.