Bayley’s journey from a novice wrestler to WWE Women’s Champion is a compelling story of growth and resilience, deeply intertwined with the guidance of wrestling legend Dusty Rhodes. In an enlightening conversation with Cody Rhodes on the inaugural episode of “What Do You Wanna Talk About?”, Bayley looked back on how Dusty’s unconventional yet profoundly effective mentorship helped shape her career.
A Revelation Through Unconventional Teaching
Bayley’s early wrestling career was marked by a blend of enthusiasm and self-doubt. Despite her undeniable wrestling skills, she felt something was missing—specifically, a fully developed character. This is where Dusty Rhodes’s unique approach came into play.
“I didn’t have a character,” Bayley confessed. “I thought I could get by on my wrestling, but I quickly saw that I needed more to me.” Dusty Rhodes’s teaching style was anything but traditional. Known for his ability to read people and bring out their hidden strengths, Rhodes used a hands-on method that focused on uncovering and amplifying each wrestler’s authentic self.
Recalling her experience in “FCW” and “NXT,” Bayley shared how Dusty would identify those who needed extra guidance. “He’d put aside six or seven people that really needed work, and he would find in us what we couldn’t see in ourselves,” she explained. Dusty’s approach was not just about improving in-ring skills but about embracing one’s true identity and vulnerabilities.
Embracing Vulnerability
For Bayley, one of the most significant lessons from Dusty was the importance of embracing one’s vulnerabilities. “What I was trying to hide was that I’m this big fan,” she admitted. “I still couldn’t believe I was there, and I didn’t think I was gonna last or get past that building.” Dusty encouraged her to lean into what she was trying to conceal, rather than shying away from it.
“He told me to embrace what I was trying to hide,” Bayley continued. “So he allowed me to trust myself and really show that what you are afraid to show is okay.” This transformative lesson helped Bayley build confidence and authenticity, key elements that would become integral to her character’s success.
Spotlighting the Special
Dusty Rhodes’s ability to recognize and nurture potential was unparalleled. Bayley described how Dusty would hone in on those moments when a wrestler’s true potential began to shine. “He really did just find that special in somebody, and he didn’t give up until we realized it,” Bayley noted. “He made sure that everybody realized it as soon as we did.”
Dusty’s knack for spotting those defining moments was legendary. “He could see when the light bulb would go off in us,” Bayley said. “He would stop class and be like, ‘Did you guys see that? That’s it right there, do that again.’” This kind of immediate feedback and encouragement was instrumental in helping wrestlers like Bayley realize their full potential.
From Student to Champion
Bayley’s gratitude for Dusty Rhodes’s mentorship is evident in her continued success. As she prepares to defend her WWE Women’s Championship against Nia Jax at SummerSlam, Bayley’s reflections on Dusty’s influence reveal the deep impact his teachings had on her career. His legacy, she suggests, is not just in the wrestling moves or techniques but in the way he encouraged performers to uncover and embrace their true selves.
Stephen’s Insight
Bayley’s journey from a hopeful wrestler to a WWE Champion is a testament to the profound impact of effective mentorship. Dusty Rhodes’s unconventional methods and his ability to see and cultivate the potential in his students left an indelible mark on the wrestling world. As Bayley steps into the ring for her SummerSlam defense, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of authentic self-expression and the enduring influence of great mentors in shaping the next generation of wrestling stars.
