WWE Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam recently shared insights into his close relationship with fellow Hall of Famer Mark Henry. On his podcast “1 Of A Kind,” Van Dam opened up about their enduring friendship, which has grown stronger over the years despite their varied wrestling careers and current paths.
Van Dam spoke fondly of Henry, describing him as a good-natured and approachable individual, especially during the occasional times Van Dam has wrestled for AEW under Tony Khan. He emphasized the ease of their interactions and the constant humor that characterizes their relationship.
“He’s a really good guy, he’s always been super cool to me and very nice. He’s always been like a fan, been very complimentary of me. When I’m with him, we’re mostly laughing. He’s telling stories or talking about something that happened with me before, and it makes him laugh. He’s someone I definitely consider a friend—someone on my side for sure,” Van Dam said.
The bond between Van Dam and Henry dates back to their shared time in WWE from 2001 to 2007. Despite only wrestling each other once in a one-on-one match, their camaraderie and mutual respect have stood the test of time. Their friendship is rooted in their backstage interactions and shared experiences, which have continued to bring them together outside the ring.
Van Dam’s praise for Henry highlights not just their friendship but also Henry’s reputation for being a supportive and approachable figure in the wrestling world. Henry, known for his larger-than-life persona as the “World’s Strongest Man,” has consistently been a positive influence on those around him, both in WWE and AEW.
However, their next meeting may be postponed indefinitely as Henry has opted not to renew his contract with AEW. Instead, he has decided to focus on his personal ventures, including TheMarkHenry.com and his ReMarkable brand. This decision marks a new chapter for Henry, who expressed pride in his accomplishments with AEW but now wants to dedicate time to his entrepreneurial efforts.
Van Dam reflected on Henry’s decision with understanding and support, acknowledging the importance of pursuing one’s passions outside of the ring. This sentiment underscores the depth of their friendship, which goes beyond professional wrestling.
The friendship between Van Dam and Henry serves as a testament to the bonds formed in the wrestling industry, which often transcend the competitive nature of the sport. Their mutual respect and the joy they find in each other’s company are reminders of the positive impact these relationships can have, both personally and professionally.
As Van Dam continues his occasional appearances in AEW and other promotions, he carries with him the camaraderie and support of friends like Henry. Their story is a heartwarming reminder of the lasting friendships that can be forged in the high-stakes world of professional wrestling.
Stephen’s Value:
Rob Van Dam’s reflections on his friendship with Mark Henry offer a heartening glimpse into the personal connections that thrive behind the scenes in the wrestling world. Their enduring bond, characterized by mutual respect and humor, highlights the importance of camaraderie in an industry often dominated by competition. Van Dam’s candid comments remind us of the human side of professional wrestling, where friendships forged in the ring can last a lifetime.