In a recent interview on Alicia Atout’s YouTube channel, Roderick Strong recalled taking Adam Cole under his wing in Ring of Honor. He said,
“Me and Adam, it’s interesting because it started with me trying to mentor him when he came to Ring of Honor just because he was a talent that had a huge upside. Just trying to get a feel for the type of person he was, and he was always very receptive, willing to try anything, and those are the people that are usually the most successful in this business.”
He continued, “So it grew from like a business relationship to a personal relationship and like hanging out and stuff. But he’s just, honestly, just a great human being and a really great friend that you know is a fantastic listener when I need him, and I, the same for him. We just always kind of had each other’s back and it’s a very special relationship.”
Strong had been with ROH for a few years by the time Cole joined the company in 2009. The two would later team together in PWG.
In WWE NXT, Cole and Strong made one-half of the Undisputed Era. The pair are currently aligned as part of AEW’s Undisputed Kingdom.
Roderick Strong Reflects on Mentoring Adam Cole in Ring of Honor
In a recent interview on Alicia Atout’s YouTube channel, professional wrestler Roderick Strong shared his experience of taking Adam Cole under his wing during their time together in Ring of Honor (ROH). Strong, who has been known for his technical prowess and intense in-ring style, recognized Cole’s immense talent and saw an opportunity to mentor him.
Strong recalled, “Me and Adam, it’s interesting because it started with me trying to mentor him when he came to Ring of Honor just because he was a talent that had a huge upside. Just trying to get a feel for the type of person he was, and he was always very receptive, willing to try anything, and those are the people that are usually the most successful in this business.”
The initial business relationship between Strong and Cole soon blossomed into a personal friendship. They started hanging out together and formed a strong bond. Strong spoke highly of Cole, describing him as a great human being and a fantastic listener. He emphasized the special nature of their relationship, stating that they always had each other’s backs.
Roderick Strong had already established himself in ROH before Adam Cole joined the company in 2009. However, Strong recognized Cole’s potential and took it upon himself to guide and mentor him. This mentorship allowed Cole to develop his skills and gain valuable experience in the wrestling industry.
Their partnership extended beyond ROH as they also teamed up in Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG), where they continued to showcase their chemistry and teamwork. Their success as a tag team laid the foundation for their future collaboration in WWE NXT.
In NXT, Cole and Strong became two of the founding members of the popular faction known as the Undisputed Era. Alongside Kyle O’Reilly and Bobby Fish, they dominated the NXT tag team division and achieved tremendous success. Their chemistry and ability to work together seamlessly made them one of the most beloved factions in recent memory.
However, following their respective departures from WWE, Cole and Strong found themselves aligned once again, this time in All Elite Wrestling (AEW). As part of AEW’s Undisputed Kingdom, they continue to showcase their skills and entertain fans with their unique brand of wrestling.
The story of Roderick Strong mentoring Adam Cole serves as a testament to the importance of guidance and support in the wrestling industry. Strong recognized Cole’s potential and selflessly invested his time and effort into helping him succeed. Their journey together has not only shaped their careers but also forged a deep and lasting friendship.
As fans continue to follow their careers in AEW, it is evident that the bond between Roderick Strong and Adam Cole goes beyond the wrestling ring. Their relationship is a reminder of the power of mentorship and the impact it can have on an individual’s personal and professional growth.