Wardlow Reveals He Took Bodybuilding Seriously After Seeing Batista on TV

When we think of big muscular men in AEW, Wardlow is a name immediately that comes to mind. After all, he is the muscle of The Pinnacle. One could even compare him to the early days of Batista in Evolution. And speaking of Batista, ‘The Animal’ played catalyst in Wardlow’s decision to be a muscular beast he is today.

Wardlow credits Batista for motivating him

During an interview with Muscle & Fitness, Wardlow discussed his love for bodybuilding and how his transition to pro wrestling came to be. He revealed he grew up watching the Hulk Hogan and The Ultimate Warrior. Plus, had an extreme passion for working out/bodybuilding.

He said, “I grew up on the Hulk Hogans and the Ultimate Warriors. It was the Arnold and Sylvester Stallone era. In elementary school, I had a Bowflex cable system in my bedroom … a very small bedroom [laughs], and it took up the entire bedroom, but that’s how much I loved working out.” 

However, it was in high school when he actually got serious about bodybuilding. And former WWE Superstar, Batista played catalyst to make him truly follow his passion. Wardlow said, “Dave Bautista was blowing up in the wrestling world, and I remember looking at him and thinking, ‘That’s it, that’s what I am gonna be.’”

Watch this story: Mike Tyson, Stadium Stampede Match, and More: Best Moments from AEW Double or Nothing 2.

‘Mr. Mayhem’ truly has the potential to be a top star in AEW. We’re sure he will eventually distance from The Pinnacle on a legit singles run in the future. Although for now he looks set with them, and is going to be a crucial factor for the faction going forward.


Let’s see if the 33-year-old follows an identical path to Batista or carves one of his own. Either way, this man is promising and we’ll see it more often if AEW exclusively showcases that.

We all saw a glimpse of what Wardlow brings to the table in the Stadium Stampede Match at Double or Nothing. And the best is yet to come!

What are your thoughts on the Cleveland-born muscle man Wardlow? Let us know in the comments below.

Read More: Sting Believes WWE Legend The Undertaker Never Wanted to Work With Him.

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