After recently playing the WWE 13 video game, I decided to recount my experiences interviewing wrestlers at the "WWE Superstars for Sandy Relief" and at "Wrestlemania Axxess 2013". Not only was it entertaining to talk gaming... but I was even more impressed with their generousity and down to earth natures.
I’m not lying when I say, “My heart was pounding through my chest as I awaited the stars to walk down the red carpet”. They were all here: The Rock, John Cena, Mick Foley, Triple H & Stephanie McMahon, Chris Jericho, Jerry “The King” Lawler, Ted DiBiase Jr., Sheamus, The Miz- and the list goes on!
I had the once in a lifetime opportunity to interview these bigger-than-life celebrities regarding their feelings on the Hurricane Sandy relief efforts, the attitude era of wrestling, their gaming habits, and the newly released WWE 13 video game.
Laughter and smiles surfaced after the WWE 13 video game was brought up to the Superstars- causing them to reminisce about their favorite memories of the attitude era. Various styles of humor were displayed as The Miz went into his spot-on impersonation of the New Age Outlaws being introduced, and Jerry “The King” Lawler recounted how he would refer to the divas as “puppies”.
When I asked, “What advice would you give to someone playing your character in the video game?” the responses varied, but were hilarious:
The Miz: “If you’re about to lose, turn the game off.”
Triple H: “My advice would be terrible and it would surely cause their demise.”
Ted Dibiase Jr.: “Don’t Lose. I DO NOT like losing.”
Sheamus was quite funny as he commented on another correspondent’s “Zach Galifianakis Beard”. There was even an additional joke at my expense: As I held my microphone out toward him, he looked down at me (keeping in mind that I have lesser than average height), “How you doing there? I’m not ignoring you.”
Although they may be opponents in the ring, the stars appear to be on the same team regarding the Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. When queried about the super storm, a mutual wave of devastation overcame the stars’ faces. In a most noble and generous fashion, everyone answered with the same enthusiastic response, “What can I do to help?” These superstars are truly an inspiration.
I also had the distinct pleasure of interviewing more WWE stars at the "WWE Axxess 2013" event. It was here that I had the chance to speak with the rising stars of the WWE and to ask them about the WWE 13 game and the attitude era. I received more intriguing answers from The Shield, Fandango, and the Bella Twins. The Bella Twins also gave me the scoop on what it's like being a female in the WWE.
And once again, you cannot walk away from a WWE event without realizing how charitable these men and women really are outside of the ring. I had a lump in my throat as I watched video footage, which showed these humanitrians as they back meaningful causes like: Make-a-Wish, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, and the B.A. Star Pledge. I am personally so thankful for these real-life heroes for all that they do, and I will continue to support them whether it's through gaming, watching the WWE, or donating to charity.