Pro wrestling is not just a sport; it’s a spectacle, a passion, and for many, a lifelong dream. For TNA’s Joe Hendry, this dream is currently unfolding in front of an appreciative audience. Known for his hit song, his aspirations for the TNA Heavyweight Championship, and his memorable appearances on “NXT,” Hendry’s rise in the wrestling world is a testament to unwavering self-belief and dedication.
In a recent interview with Sean Ross Sapp of “Fightful,” Hendry opened up about the intense dedication required to succeed in professional wrestling. He emphasized that success in this industry stems from an all-consuming passion for every aspect of the game.
Passion as the Driving Force
“You have to absolutely love every aspect of this game,” Hendry remarked passionately. “When it really starts to pay off, it’s like, ‘Oh, that’s very cool.’ But for anybody who’s passionate about anything, all these things are happening because we have a passion for it. And I think you need that passion to get through it. I’ve always said this to people. At no point did I ever go, ‘I’m quitting. I’m stuck.’ It had to happen. I just had this passion for it, and I still do, and I love it. And I just tell people, ‘Stay in the game. Stay in the game.'”
Hendry’s words are a powerful reminder of the importance of passion in achieving one’s goals. His unwavering belief in himself has been the cornerstone of his journey, propelling him forward even in the face of adversity.
Adapting Through Adversity
The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for many, including Hendry. Despite primarily working as a wrestler for the past eight years, the pandemic forced him to seek alternative employment. This period of adversity not only tested his resolve but also became a source of inspiration for his wrestling character.
“There was a point where I was doing Telly sales before I got to TNA,” Hendry revealed. “And that is where I actually got the character elements for the Joe Hendry character, ’cause I had this boss that was just, like, you’d have to go to these meetings and it’d be like, ‘Everybody stand up!’ And we’d all have to stand up on Zoom and I’m going, ‘Oh my god.’
“And I remember he went, ‘Look outside. Look outside! Really look!’ And I’m having to turn my head and I’m like, ‘This guy is unbearable.’ And that was the character. It was based on this guy. But yeah, I was doing Telly sales a couple of years ago. You know what I mean? But you know what, I wouldn’t change a thing. I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Turning Challenges into Character
Hendry’s ability to transform his experiences into aspects of his wrestling persona demonstrates a unique creativity and resilience. His time in telesales, although challenging, provided a rich source of inspiration that has contributed to his current success.
This period in his life also highlights the often overlooked struggles that many professional wrestlers face. Behind the larger-than-life personas and thrilling matches, wrestlers like Hendry often endure significant hardships and make substantial sacrifices to pursue their passion.
A Message of Perseverance
Hendry’s story is more than just a tale of personal triumph; it’s a message of perseverance to all who aspire to achieve greatness. His journey from telesales to TNA star exemplifies the power of self-belief and the importance of staying committed to one’s dreams, regardless of the obstacles encountered along the way.
Stephen’s Insight
Joe Hendry’s journey underscores a universal truth: true success often demands a deep-seated passion and relentless perseverance. His story resonates with anyone who has ever chased a dream, highlighting the sacrifices and inner strength needed to overcome obstacles.
Joe Hendry’s rise in the world of professional wrestling is a testament to his passion, dedication, and resilience. His journey, marked by both challenges and triumphs, serves as an inspiration to aspiring wrestlers and dreamers alike. In the high-stakes world of professional wrestling, Hendry’s story is a powerful reminder that with unwavering passion and self-belief, anything is possible.
