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He's been a staple on the independent wrestling scene for over 10 years. He has worked nearly everywhere, including the WWE. He is about to co promote his first wrestling event. After all this, I am proud to present 10 Questions With... Judas Young!
1. For those people who have been living under a rock, how long have
you been a professional wrestler and what made you decide to become a
wrestler.
As a child I grew up on pro wrestling. I was fascinated by the action
I saw on television and captivated by the colorful characters portrayed
by the wrestlers. It didn’t matter to me what organization it was,
I loved it all. When I was still in elementary school, I befriended Ted
Petty, who wrestled under a mask as the Cheetah Kid and later became most
popular as Rocco Rock of The Public Enemy. Teddy helped me break into
the sport of professional wrestling at the early age of ten! He took me
under his wing, and it was through him that I was really introduced to
the ins and outs of independent wrestling.
I learned first hand how to set up and break down a ring as it was he
who owned a few and rented them out at the time alongside being booked
on wrestling events. It was here that I was taught how to bump, run the
ropes, and even execute death-defying stunts like he did, such as a moonsault.
Though too young to wrestle, I’d get involved in some shape or form.
I was used as a plant in the crowd from time to time. A lot of the wrestlers
began to notice me around more often as I attended so many shows with
Teddy, and after taking a liking to me, they allowed me to be a part of
their locker rooms.
As I got older, I took an outside hobby of photography and combined it
with my interest in wrestling to get photos published in magazines, etc.
I did the same with journalism and other creative talents I had and intertwined
it with wrestling to further make a name for myself at that stage and
help some of “the boys” get publicity. All along, I’ve
always wanted to physically get in the ring and begin my own career, so
as I matured and made my way through college I pursued what I was destined
to do!
One evening I had set plans to attend a show and shoot ringside photography.
Well, the promoter needed a manager on the event and asked if I’d
like to partake. That’s all I needed was that one invite. Now my
dream to finally get involved in a greater capacity than in the past had
come to fruition. I recall this individual telling me to come up with
a character and name and I’d be showcased in a managerial role.
I was paired with a tag team called the Sons of Gestapo, who wrestled
in singles matches that night, and got to interfere in not only one but
two action packed matches, one which was up against Little Guido, and
the other involving “Crowbar” Devon Storm. I called myself Judas
Young then, and I here I am 11 years later on the Wrestling Clothesline
with the same name, and using two of the wrestlers I had the great opportunity
to begin with over a decade ago, on an upcoming event I am co-promoting.
2. What do you consider to be the two main highlights of your career
thus far?
Let me answer that first off by stating that being a fan of pro wrestling
and getting the actual chance to step foot in the ring and perform before
crowds big and small, and to the extent that I have, is a highlight all
in itself. I was drawn in by the glitz and glamour, the showmanship, and
everything that went on in the squared circle, so I was taken back as
a kid each time I tuned in, especially to the World Wrestling Federation.
This was bigger than life and was clearly the pinnacle of pro wrestling.
It was where I always wanted to be. Therefore, I consider any brush of
stardom I’ve encountered from World Wrestling Entertainment a highlight.
What I mean is, any chance I have been invited up or booked for a WWE
related event, I’ve always held in high regard. Over an occasional
span of my career, I have been given several opportunities to be involved
on live WWE shows and in some aspects, their television programs.
So to carouse the large arenas hours before the huge events and rub elbows
with some of the superstars made famous over the TV screen, obviously
this would be a highlight of my wrestling career. It wasn’t just
once or twice either, I have been asked to be an “extra” on
numerous occasions and got the chance to be a part of the magic in some
fashion on several affairs. Whether it be working out in the ring ahead
of time, being under the watchful eye of some of the most influential
personalities this sport has ever seen, break bread with the legends and
stars of the past, present, and future, call a match with a fellow indy
wrestler or even better, a name guy like Hacksaw Jim Duggan, or get beat
up in a skit designed for the entertainment portion of the show, I have
held these times and memories on a pedestal.
A second highlight would be a toss up between two. It’s hard to choose
as they are both accomplishments of mine and have come toward the latter
part of my career, just recently. If you aren’t holding me to only
a total of two and let me slide with an extra highlight, then here we
go! I’d like to first recognize one of the two highlights as the
one year title reign I held as NWA Television champion this past year.
September 7, 2007 is when I was awarded this belt after a grueling three
way match in Newark, NJ and just a few days over a full 365 days I lost
it. On September 12, 2008, again in Newark, NJ I was defeated in a controversial
fashion. Regardless of the way it went down in the history books, I am
most proud to be recognized as the longest running NWA TV champ ever.
That means I held this strap longer than the likes of stars such as Steve
Austin and Mike Rotunda. They are listed as holding the title during their
day, but once the title was reinstated, and Judas Young was thrown in
the mix, I now hold that record!
The final highlight that I would like to make mention of, is getting the
opportunity to appear in the upcoming breakout film, The Wrestler. This
is the one directed by Darren Aronofsky and that casts Mickey Rourke and
Marisa Tomei in leading roles. Though I was shown in a limited amount
of scenes I can proudly say I am in the film. Not only is my likeness
featured, but the “promoter” of one of the events mentions my
name, along with others, and I am listed in the final credits of the movie!
What was really cool, and will stick with me for years, is the reaction
I got when walking down the ‘concrete red carpet’ at the Premiere
during the New York Film Festival. It was incredible and unlike anything
else. I wouldn’t have had it or done it any other way. And if I didn’t
stroll down that walk of fame, I would’ve regretted it. I took an
opportunity and made it a memory. This is something I went to, just to
attend, but wound up having my picture taken, Hollywood style, as you
see on the celebrity related television channels. I felt like a true star
as photographers were snapping away and lights were flashing, not to mention
being interviewed by the Independent Film Channel. A picture of me against
that Fox Searchlight/NYC Film Festival backdrop wound up somewhere online
and listed me as an actor, next to the names Rourke and Tomei. Now that’s
s omething to be proud of.
3. On December 6th, you are running a wrestling show at 3-2 Count Athletic Training Facility, in Freehold, NJ. What made you decide to promote a wrestling event, especially with the current state of the economy?
I have always wanted to run at least one show in my life. I never knew
when it was going to come about though. This was one of those very few
times that I didn’t pursue it, yet instead it came to me! The woman
who runs the facility where the event is being held wanted to put on a
wrestling show, and just by word of mouth through people she knew who
knew me as a pro wrestler, she reached out to me. Out of respect for what
he has proven in the past, after running successful shows and conventions,
I in turn asked my buddy Tommy Fierro for his help as he has a vast knowledge
about promoting and a background in holding such events. We talked business,
discussed what the options would be, what guidelines had to be followed…and
what do you know? Here we are!
As far as the economy goes, it never really came to mind or struck a chord
with me. I saw it as putting on an event and giving her the best show
possible I can assist with. Now that I am at a point where it is a few
weeks away and still pushing ticket sales and promoting throughout the
week, the current state of the economy has become a thought. I sometimes
wonder how well we will do in the outcome as I hope for a good turnout.
I also find myself gauging what other promoters are charging for ticket
prices versus mine and making certain the wrestlers are getting their
fair share.
I am not too concerned about myself, seriously, as it’s more about
my reputation, making “the boys” happy, and giving them a good
show to perform on instead of being a part of the other disasters that
are out there which they have to succumb to working on. I think that no
matter how downtrodden the economy may be, if an event like this is done
right, with the right people, a parent is going to take their kid to see
a good night of wrestling, and any fan, smart or not, will come to see
the same. I can guarantee that the action that night will be off the charts.
And maybe for one night, the spectators will forget about the economy,
as they get wrapped up in what we showcase that particular evening.
4. Will this event be the first of, hopefully, many wrestling events you plan on promoting or is this just a one time deal?
Brother, I can’t be for certain. As of now it’s a one time deal. However, if things go as planned and all parties involved are happy with the results, you may see us back at that building on a consecutive basis. The idea has been toyed with, but that’s about it. You never know what the future holds, but I can tell you this…ask me again after the 6th of December and hopefully I will have a better grasp on it.
5. What will make your wrestling event different from the ridiculously
large number of other wrestling promotions that currently run in NJ?
I’m not here to knock anyone or the way they run their group.
I am by no means a high chief of pro wrestling promoting, but like to
think I have at least a clue. Believe me, I have been a part of many shows
which leave a lot to be desired. I have been discouraged in this sport
that I have grown to love all because of so-called promoters who are lazy,
rely on the internet, and don’t get off their ass to “paper
the town,” only to wonder why their event drew nobody, made peanuts,
are shirtless by the end of the night, and have a bunch of angry wrestlers
on their hands. There is a ton of bad business going on out there. Whether
it be a “mark” just doing it to play promoter, a wrestler putting
on a show because he can’t get booked elsewhere, a carnie who uses
bottom of the barrel scrubs and skates by, meanwhile, cheating the people
out of a well earned buck, or someone who really does try but doesn’t
have the correct connections or outlets to produce a memorable event,
there is bad business going on!
We’re pushing something different. That’s the key word, “different.”
In your question, you ask me what will set mine apart from the rest, and
it’s exactly that! I am “different.” I’m a bird of
a different feather, a horse of another color! Therefore, my outlook and
perception on wrestling is “different” than most. I will try
and be sure that all the things I see wrong with any of the independent
shows I have been on and complain about, don’t happen on this one.
I will try my best to have all i’s dotted and t’s crossed. I’m
pushing to present something for everyone with a mixture of it all, with
that including a first time ever meeting between Diva and Knockout, a
Texas Death Match, and an out of the norm collection of wrestlers. Without
going way over the top and without any midgets (which just didn’t
happen to pan out), I think the talent booked and the match-making speak
for itself.
The crew involved, from old school to new, and the family oriented frame
of mind makes for a world of difference. I am not using untrained students
who haven’t gotten their beak wet in front of a crowd yet and am
not associating with any local ticket sellers or jabronies. The guys and
girls on the roster have worked hard to get where they are at and deserve
a respected, top to bottom, head to toe lineup of wrestlers. I am also
looking at it from a bunch of different angles, but most importantly,
at a wrestler’s view. That is what is going to separate us from them!
6. Your show seems to have a mix of "old school" as well as more current talent. (It almost has the feel of a Coraluzzo show lol) What made you decide to book such greats like Crowbar, Inferno, Douring, Darling, etc. as well as guys like Jeff Starr, Bonecrusher Sampson, Mr. Personality, and Flash?
You know what Brett? I am so excited about this! Sure I don’t have
every single wrestler I’d want for a total dream card, but I got
close enough to it. Without guys like Joey Mercury, LA Smooth, Pepper
Parks, Bo Dupp, Casey James, or Kid Kash (who I’d love for all to
be involved as I am a huge fan of their “work”), it’s safe
to say I’m content with the crop of talent I was able to secure for
that night. These are all passionate individuals who I am close-knit with
and feel are well rounded characters in and out of the ring. I too believe
they either paid their dues and belong here or are on their way back down
the rung and are just as hard working as they were on their way up!
From the ref to the wrestlers to the ring announcer, these are people
I encountered on my journeys along the East Coast. I took notice to the
charisma, character, athletic prowess, and other features each one of
the personalities on the show possess, over time. I’ve kept such
people in mind and will utilize those I think have what it takes to be
somebody in professional wrestling. I too have let most of them into my
life in some fashion or another. I am proud to have them all as friends
and be able to share this one night as a gathering of great grapplers.
There are no half-assed, out of shape, non-wrestling attire wearing jokers
on this show. They are all consummate professionals in every sense of
the word.
That’s what made me decide on booking this wide variety of guys.
I also consulted Tommy and ran a laundry list of people I wanted to use
past him and together we configured who best fit. As I mentioned before,
I didn’t get all my favorite picks, as we had to take into perspective
the budget we are working with and calculate any out of state flights.
We ruled out any talent that had to be flown in, and as you can see, have
mainly local tri-state residents. Furthest out, from what I can recall,
is Roxxi, as she is driving in from Massachusetts. We factored in who
has been most faithful, among other reasons, to his related events in
the past as well.
I know Tommy would be happy to know you are comparing the feel of the
lineup to that of Dennis Coraluzzo’s. He uses what his mentor learned
him some fifteen years ago as a template in running events now and I am
glad we are doing this together! We have brainstormed thoughts and have
heard each other out on various topics related to this show, and given
one another equal share on just about everything that’s considered
input. There was a little push and pull when it came to certain suggestions
on his side and on mine, but in the end we recognized that we need to
do what’s right for the best of the business all together. He brings
a lot to the table and I can’t give him enough credit and his due
for what he was molded by Dennis to do from a young age.
And just like Dennis did, we are bringing in a mixture of what available
talent is out there. Why not bring in a broad array of personas that the
area doesn’t get to see often, especially on one star studded event?
When was the last time you saw HC Loc in New Jersey? Has Jeff Starr ever
been put on the map out this way? I bet he will once he is showcased in
the ring on December 6th! Other than for a few indy promotions, where
else can you see “Bone Crusher” Fred Sampson? He is by far,
one of the best, untapped, fine specimens that’s ‘oh-so’
hungry for pro wrestling and just awaiting an opportunity in our line
of work. You throw in veterans like Crowbar, Inferno, Doring, and even
myself included, who can lend advice and share expertise with the fresh,
up-and-comers in this sport and you have a well groomed card. Can’t
you tell I’m hyped up??
7. The show also features, in their first meeting ever, WWE Diva Cherry against TNA Knockout Roxxi. How did you come up with the idea for these two to face each other?
That’s simple! There would be no card that I would be involved with,
especially behind-the-scenes, that I wouldn’t have Cherry apart of.
She has been such a staple in my career, not to mention, my personal life.
It may be a secret to some, but none to others, that she and I have a
relationship outside the squared circle that is unparalleled to any other.
For many years we have built a great bond which started off a friendship
and grew to further heights. I have assisted her in becoming the woman
she is today and helped mold her into the wrestler she has become. And
I say that with the greatest, immense amount of pride. I can’t explain
how happy one person has made me over a period of time and know what we
shared together has contributed toward a building block in life. I witnessed
her first hand go from a valet, to an in ring competitor on the independents,
to a female combatant in front of fans in Ohio Valley Wrestling, to a
world renown WWE Diva on Smackdown on a weekly basis. I think that explains
a lot. Enough said.
So, in order to reciprocate for the years of hard work acknowledged by
me for her, what better way than to put her in a bout against one of the
best women wrestlers I have encountered on the circuit in a long time.
During my travels I have come across many talented but unattractive females
and many attractive yet untalented ones too. I can seriously say, the
two come in one package, and that is in the form of Nikki Roxx, also known
to avid TNA viewers as Roxxi Laveaux. I have admired her, what she stands
for, and how she produces before a crowd, for a long time. Any chance
I got to help her out I could. And getting her locked in for December
6th is proof of how highly I think of her and what she’s capable
of.
This is going to make for one heck of an attraction!
8. What do you feel a wrestling promotion has to do today in order to succeed (or at least break even), especially on the indy scene where certain markets (like NJ) are oversaturated?
I doubt this will ever happen as promoters ego’s are so high and
have their own way of how things are to be run, but a conglomeration would
be best. What about possible regulation by the state too? What this would
do is draw one large fan base in one particular area, creating a territory.
Instead of battling against each other, why not work together? And as
much as nobody would wish for regulation throughout the state, due to
taxes and money owed, or having to get doctors and commissioners involved,
this would keep all the ‘ham and eggers’ out of the back or
away from the ring and behind the guardrail where they belong.
With this alone, crowds would be larger, as there would be less guys in
the dressing room and in the wrestling schools because the way I see it
is, we are overwhelmed with average looking, non-athletic male or female
parties trying to be something that they are not. It seems we are outnumbered
by those calling themselves professional wrestlers, as it is no longer
special for us who are deemed true Professional Wrestlers. Any one with
a couple of dollars are allowed a chance at our art and I disagree with
how their money is taken, as a line needs to be crossed before just inviting
certain individuals in and letting them ply our trade.
That being said, it’s easy to understand that I feel a wrestling
promotion should be limited to only those ready to excel or already experienced
in the field. From time to time, we wrestlers are left trying to make
chicken salad out of chicken sh*t. If it’s not there to begin with,
we have nothing to worry about. Put the kibosh to bad wrestling and bad
promotions now and let’s move on with a better product overall. In
order to accomplish this, we need to band together and nip it in the bud,
outlawing any of the outlandish groups that are killing the towns throughout
the states. It’s the only way anyone, promoters and wrestlers alike,
are going to make some good money like we used too! With a talented group
of performers, the right markets and demographics to hit, a hard working
and reliable staff, creativity, and money to start with, a promotion can
be successful. However, it’s this list of characteristics, among
others, which are missing today. Well…that and a lack of promoting.
If you don’t put time and effort into promoting an event, you will
have a disaster on your hands and fail. Hence, you will make zero dollars.
If you can get people to come to your event and you break even, you just
about did enough and got by on ‘the skin of your teeth.’ If
you can draw a crowd and make money, then quite plainly, you are doing
something right! We often hear a lot of these promoters making claims
to doing well on their shows but not too many that actually pull through,
and unfortunately for us, it’s right here in the oversaturated state
of New Jersey.
9. If you had to do it all over again (the wrestling and the promoting) would you change anything?
I’ve yet to really delve into the promoting aspect, as again, this
is my first time. There is nothing I can say off the bat that I’d
change just yet. After this show, I may be able to better answer that
portion of this question.
As far as changing anything on the wrestling end if I were to do it all
over again, I would do two things. One, I’d attend open ring workouts
at the ECW Arena before the Extreme Championship Wrestling events, and
two, pack up my bags to join my friends at Ohio Valley Wrestling in Louisville,
KY. Who knows how much further along I’d be right now if I chose
either one of those. However, I am not a man that likes to ask what if?
So I am okay with where I’ve gotten thus far and the choices I’ve
made up until this point. Granted they may have not been the smartest,
but at least they were the best for me and whatever my situation was at
the time.
I have been able to see places, do things, and meet people I may not have
if I didn’t pick the avenues I did in life. I’ve also been lucky
enough to accomplish what I have in wrestling, and that includes being
featured in certain media, making money and traveling to numerous cities,
holding various titles, being a part of historical moments and organizations,
and having countless memorabilia items that identify my likeness and name,
things someone else may not get the chance to ever experience. In conclusion,
I have done in a few years what some may never achieve in a lifetime,
and for that, I’m blessed!
10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
As you can tell by my extensive answers, grammatically correct sentences,
and passion for everything I speak of, I am a good catch for anyone or
anything. I mean that in the sense of any person, place, or thing, wrestling
related or not! I am a reliable, well traveled, well versed, disciplined,
strong headed, athletic guy. I am a true friend who is spontaneous and
knows his surroundings and pays attention to detail. I love to laugh but
am serious when the time calls for it.
That may sound like a classified ad from me looking for romance, but I
wanted to give an idea of what type of person I truly am. So no matter
what path it is I wind up going down, I hope it is for my best interests.
I am not perfect by any sense. Though I am a good person, I have my flaws
and have messed up in certain aspects of my life in the past. Whether
it be wrestling professionally or repossessing someone’s vehicle
from their yard, I will be certain to be the best I possibly can.
I’d like to tell you that I foresee being with a major company like
WWE. I can’t guarantee that. It’s so wishy-washy! I’d love
to say I’d no longer be living on the East Coast, where wrestling
is over-saturated, and be somewhere overseas like in Puerto Rico or Japan.
I could hope though that I am happy, with all limbs attached, the love
of my life on my arm, providing for a wonderful existence on this planet,
being debt free, problem free, and with a few extra bucks tucked away
somewhere! That’s the best I can sum up my foreseeable future at
this present time.
Thank you so much for the questions and I hope I enlightened some of your
readers by allowing them in on the life and times of Judas Young. Punks
Not Dead!!
