Known as Dolph Ziggler to WWE fans, Nic Nemeth is currently enjoying the creative freedom of the independent circuit following his exit from WWE. The 20-year-old wrestling veteran has been making waves in TNA and NJPW and has also discussed possible futures with AEW’s Tony Khan
Despite many aspects of her storied career, including her early days as a member of Spirit Sect, Nemeth recently revealed a little-known story when she appeared on ECW Original Francine In the “Eyes Up Here” podcast Nemeth revealed that she was even less memorable and successful tag than the infamous male cheerleading team. WWE audiences knew him almost as well as part of the team
“There was a chance I was going to be in the Heart Throbs,” Nemeth shared. “They were great wrestling dudes, who I liked, and they were jacked, and they had a couple of months’ run. Their debut was, like, losing. And I go, ‘That was almost me.’ And I was mad that I was in a cheerleading group.”
The Heart Throbs, comprised of Antonio Thomas and Romeo Roselli, were a tag team that emerged from Ohio Valley Wrestling around the same time as Nemeth in 2004. Despite having potential, the duo’s WWE run was short-lived and underwhelming, highlighted by their initial defeat. Reflecting on this, Nemeth acknowledged the irony and frustration of almost being part of a team known more for their quick demise than their accomplishments.
While Nemeth’s career eventually saw him achieve significant milestones, including two WWE World Heavyweight Championship reigns, his early days were filled with numerous defeats. Some of these losses, it turns out, were not just part of his storyline but also a way to rib one of his biggest backstage supporters.
“Pat Patterson was a big fan of mine,” Nemeth recalled. “The top of the top, other than Vince, pulled me aside and said, ‘Pat pushes for you so much because he sees such great things in you, that we’re now actively ribbing him by having you lose every week’… and they thought it was like a cool thing to tell me.”
This revelation adds another layer to Nemeth’s journey, showcasing the complex and sometimes harsh realities of professional wrestling. The decision to have him repeatedly lose was not just a booking choice but a deliberate rib on Patterson, illustrating the sometimes cruel backstage politics that can influence a wrestler’s trajectory.
Despite these early setbacks and backstage shenanigans, Nemeth has carved out a successful career, becoming a beloved and respected figure in the wrestling community. His resilience and adaptability have allowed him to thrive beyond WWE, continuing to entertain fans across various promotions.
Nic Nemeth’s reflections on his near-miss with the Heart Throbs and the backstage ribs he endured provide a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes world of professional wrestling. His candidness about these experiences underscores the challenges and complexities that wrestlers often face, both in and out of the ring. As Nemeth continues to explore new opportunities and push his career forward, his stories serve as a testament to his enduring passion and dedication to the sport.
