In our continuing series of interviews featuring talent from the Ohio wrestling scene both past and present, we have recently had the privilege of getting a brief chance to ask a few questions to current Ring of Honor World Champion Nigel McGuinness. Nigel will be in Dayton, Ohio this upcoming Friday January 25th to defend the RoH title against Chris Hero in a steel cage.
William B. West: What first drew you to professional wrestling?
Nigel McGuinness: The sense of mystery and excitement of the show.
William B. West: At what point in your life did you decide you wanted to wrestle professionally, and how/why did you pick Les Thatcher’s school in Cincinnati?
Nigel McGuinness: When I was about fourteen after watching a documentary Robbie Brookside made. Les was the only person who took the time to reply to my enquiries with a hand written letter and after meeting him and seeing the place I was sold.
William B. West: You’ve wrestled all over the world, Europe, Japan, the US. Do you change your style to fit the audience, or do they get the same Nigel McGuinness wherever you are?
Nigel McGuinness: No, you adjust the show to who is watching and what they want to see.
William B. West: You currently hold one of the most prestigious titles in pro wrestling, the Ring of Honor World Title, is there a lot of pressure holding this championship?
Nigel McGuinness: Absolutely. But such is life in any pursuit. With great achievement comes great criticism, that is the way it goes.
William B. West: You’ve been the good guy and the bad guy, do you have a preference?
Nigel McGuinness: People seem to find it easier to dislike me.
William B. West: Who are some of the biggest influences in your wrestling career?
Nigel McGuinness: Les of course. William Regal. Brian Dixon. Chic Cullen. Robbie Brookside. Jonny Saint. Samoa Joe. Clamdigger Danielson.
William B. West: If you could have a dream match against anyone past or present who would you wrestle and why?
Nigel McGuinness: John Cena. PPV check.
William B. West: How long do you see yourself wrestling? What are your plans after you retire?
Nigel McGuinness: As long ass I’m healthy and not adding permanent damage and I enjoy it. Want to write, maybe work in a bar and relax by the beach a lot. Have a kid.
William B. West: Nigel thank you for taking time out of your hectic schedule to answer a few questions here at PROHIOWRESTLING.com, I know the fans here in Ohio are looking forward to seeing you in action this week. Anything you’d like to add before we go?
Nigel McGuinness: To the wrestling fans, keep supporting an alternative. Thanks for the words of encouragement recently from some of you, they meant a lot to me.
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