In the latest episode of “What Do You Wanna Talk About?,” WWE Women’s Champion Bayley joined Cody Rhodes to reflect on her wrestling career and the pivotal role that the late Dusty Rhodes played in shaping her path to success. Bayley’s candid conversation shed light on how embracing her true self and overcoming self-doubt were integral to her journey.
Embracing Authenticity
Bayley’s rise to WWE stardom began with a focus on her in-ring skills, but it was Dusty Rhodes’ guidance that helped her realize the importance of embracing her true self. When Bayley first joined WWE, she was primarily seen as a skilled wrestler but lacked a distinctive character. Despite her technical prowess, she soon realized that a compelling persona was crucial to standing out.
“I came into WWE just as a wrestler,” Bayley recounted. “That was literally what got me my job. It was like, ‘Okay, she can go in the ring a little bit,’ and I didn’t have a character. I thought I could get by on my wrestling, but I quickly saw that I needed more to me.” Dusty Rhodes, known for his keen eye for talent and deep understanding of wrestling personas, took Bayley under his wing. He spent extra time with wrestlers who needed guidance, helping them discover aspects of themselves they couldn’t see.
Dusty’s Impact on Bayley’s Evolution
Dusty’s influence was instrumental in Bayley’s transformation from a “superfan” to a superstar. He encouraged her to embrace her passion for wrestling and to shed her imposter syndrome. “Dusty told me to embrace what I was trying to hide,” Bayley said. “He allowed me to trust myself and really [show that] what you are afraid to show is okay.”
Bayley’s initial apprehension about showcasing her true self was overcome through Dusty’s mentorship. He encouraged her to bring her genuine enthusiasm for wrestling into her character, which became a cornerstone of her persona. This advice proved invaluable as Bayley began to develop a unique character that resonated with fans.
Lessons for the Entire Group
Dusty Rhodes didn’t just mentor Bayley; his approach had a profound impact on all the talents he worked with. Bayley recalled how Dusty would use individual breakthroughs as teaching moments for the entire group. “He really did just find that [special trait in someone],” she explained. “He didn’t give up until we realized it and he made sure that everybody realized it as soon as we did.”
Dusty’s ability to identify and nurture the moment when a talent “got it” was a crucial part of his teaching method. He would pause class to highlight these revelations, encouraging others to learn from these moments of clarity. This approach helped create a supportive environment where wrestlers could thrive and develop their own unique identities.
Staying True to Her Vision
As Bayley’s character evolved, Dusty Rhodes remained a guiding force, ensuring she stayed true to her vision even amidst WWE’s shifting focus. Bayley recounted a memorable piece of advice from Dusty regarding her appearance. “My first match in my character, I wrestled Alicia Fox, and I came out with the ponytail,” she said. “I didn’t think WWE would approve it because we were still in a ‘Diva’ era.”
Despite her doubts, Dusty’s guidance was clear. When she attempted to conform to the prevailing “Diva” style by removing her ponytail, Dusty stood firm in his support. “He said, ‘Don’t ever take your ponytail out. Leave it in.’”
Legacy of Confidence
Bayley’s success story is a testament to Dusty Rhodes’ impact on her career. The confidence and lessons she gained under his mentorship have been instrumental in her evolution from a newcomer to a champion. As Bayley continues to excel in WWE, her journey serves as a reminder of the importance of authenticity and the lasting influence of great mentors.
Stephen’s Insight
Bayley’s reflections on her early career and Dusty Rhodes’ mentorship offer a profound glimpse into the backstage dynamics of WWE. Dusty’s ability to inspire and cultivate talent underscores the significance of personalized guidance in professional wrestling. Bayley’s success story highlights the importance of staying true to oneself and the transformative power of having a mentor who believes in one’s potential. As WWE continues to evolve, the lessons from Dusty Rhodes remain a vital part of the journey for aspiring wrestlers and seasoned professionals alike.
