In a recent revelation that sent shockwaves through the wrestling community, the seasoned referee Mike Chioda, known for his over three decades of service in WWE, disclosed a dream match that never came to fruition.
In the latest edition of “Monday Mailbag with Mike Chioda,” the veteran official unveiled the one name he wished he could have worked with during his illustrious career — none other than the iconic Sting.
“I’d have to say Sting,”
Chioda confessed.
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Despite both legends traversing the wrestling landscape for years, their paths never crossed in the ring. Even during Sting’s stint with WWE, Chioda, adorned in his striped referee shirt, never had the opportunity to officiate one of the enigmatic wrestler’s matches.

Now, as Sting approaches the twilight of his in-ring career, with plans to retire at AEW Revolution next year, the window of opportunity for this dream collaboration is seemingly closing.
Chioda, who recently hung up his referee attire, retired not too long ago, mirroring the farewell of another wrestling icon, “Nature Boy” Ric Flair. Notably, Chioda played a pivotal role as the third man in the ring during Flair’s proclaimed “last match.” The synchronicity of their retirements created a poignant moment in wrestling history.
The phrase “never say never” echoes loudly in the realm of professional wrestling. Chioda, having previously worked for Tony Khan‘s AEW, including a notable appearance at 2022’s Double Or Nothing, remains open to the possibility of making his final dream come true.
Wrestling aficionados, eagerly anticipating the unexpected, cling to the hope that circumstances align to grant Chioda the opportunity to officiate a match featuring the legendary Sting.
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As the wrestling world buzzes with speculation, emotions run high among fans and industry insiders alike. The prospect of witnessing Chioda, a revered figure in officiating, share the ring with the iconic Sting adds an extra layer of excitement to the narrative.

The convergence of these two wrestling titans, if it ever materializes, promises to be a momentous occasion, etched in the annals of wrestling history.
In the unpredictable world of professional wrestling, where storylines evolve and surprises unfold, Chioda’s unfulfilled dream becomes a poignant reminder of the human element within the larger-than-life spectacle.
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As fans eagerly anticipate the unfolding chapters of Chioda’s post-referee journey, the allure of what could have been with Sting remains a compelling and emotional thread in the rich tapestry of wrestling lore.
Sheila’s Note: A Dream Deferred in the Squared Circle
In the wrestling cosmos, Mike Chioda’s revelation adds a layer of wistful nostalgia. The unspoken dance between referees and legends often goes unnoticed. Chioda’s desire to officiate Sting’s match, now a fading fantasy, resonates beyond the ring.
Wrestling’s allure lies not just in the scripted drama but in the unscripted desires of those who make it magical. As Chioda steps away from the striped shirt, we’re left to ponder the untold stories that never graced the canvas.
Wrestling, at its core, thrives on dreams — fulfilled or otherwise — and Chioda’s Sting wish remains a poignant reminder of the untrodden paths in this captivating world.