ROB VAN DAM always stood out as a unique star within the larger-than-life world of professional wrestling. The former ECW, WWE and TNA world champion had a truly incredible run in the business: the six-time WWE intercontinental champion, three-time WWE tag team champion, 2006’s Mr Money in the Bank and longest-reigning ECW television champ of all time more than make his mark in wrestling's history books while never compromising his distinctive, one of a kind in-ring style.
The Whole F’N show joined Wrestling Life with Ben Veal for episode 034 of the show to reflect back on his wrestling life, share his experiences with concussion, explain how former wrestler turned neuroscientist Dr Christopher Nowinski has helped to change the industry for the better through the Concussion Legacy Foundation, and to reflect on lessons learned from a hardcore career.
ROB VAN DAM ON THE CONCUSSION LEGACY FOUNDATION
The Concussion Legacy Foundation, founded with purpose by former wrester turned neuroscientist Dr. Christopher Nowinski, has had a significant impact on the professional wrestling business in the wake of the industry's darkest days.
"After the Chris Benoit [tragedy] happened and they saw his brain, Chris Nowinski was always trying to get everyone to open their eyes to realize the comparison between the impact a football player [experiences] and the car crashes that wrestlers go through in the ring every match. He had some pushback. People didn't want to hear about it ... I remember being in Los Angeles with him and Billy Corgan from The Smashing Pumpkins. It was a big auditorium and it was set up to educate the coaches on implementing some safety protocols, and man, they did not want to hear it. They were old-school back then ... Change is always difficult and gets a lot of pushback, but thank God Chris had an agenda and made out awesome, wonderful, meaningful purpose out of his life and his job."
RVD'S 2021 WWE HALL OF FAME INDUCTION
Rob Van Dam's induction into the prestigious WWE Hall of Fame ended up being as unique as the performer himself, taking place in front of a virtual audience of television monitors in WWE's ThunderDome during the COVID-19 pandemic. While RVD did not get to stand on the podium in front of an arena full of appreciative fans, the WWE Hall of Fame induction undoubtedly left its mark on the grappler. "It was very validating to be thought of on that Mount Rushmore of wrestlers. That's something that tehy can never take away from me now ... it's very prestigious. I was honoured; the fact that it was during COVID and we didn't have a crowd was kind of disappointing after going to the Hall of Fame for so many years and watching the really long speeches."
ROB VAN DAM REFLECTS ON ECW ONE NIGHT STAND
WWE's first two ECW One Night Stand pay-per-views are fondly remembered by fans as fitting tribute to the Philadelphia promotion that changed the face of wrestling. As a proud ECW original, RVD missed out on competing at the first One Night Stand event, but more than made up for that fact when he not only main eventing against, but also defeated, WWE world champion John Cena to unite both the WWE and ECW titles in front of a truly raucous, emotionally-charged crowd.
It was a very special moment for Rob's fans globally and for the performer himself: "It was incredible being the show. That's what that match was all about ... that crowd, forget about it. The reason that match stands out so much for me as my crowning moment was that I was fighting for everything that I believed in. Everything that I'd hold onto throughout my career as everyone tried to change me. I was fighting against the guy that stood for everything that was wrestling at the time ... the build up for that match was my entire career."
EPISODE 034 HIGHLIGHTS: ROB VAN DAM
Rob Van Dam discusses his career, the impact of concussions, his marriage, and his Hall of Fame induction, emphasising individuality and authenticity in wrestling.
RVD reflects on the struggles and challenges of dealing with concussions in wrestling.
Rob recalls the significance of being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame during the pandemic.
Van Dam shares how he found love with wife Katie Forbes, highlighting their deep connection.
The importance of authenticity and individuality in wrestling was central to RVD’s entire career.
RVD discusses the influence of Dr. Chris Nowinski on concussion awareness in wrestling, as well as the evolution of wrestling’s physical demands and the importance of health.
Rob shares details of an ecxciting new project: Only Wrestlers, a platform connecting fans with wrestlers.
KEY INSIGHTS FROM ROB VAN DAM
Concussion Awareness: RVD emphasiSes the need for better understanding and education about concussions in wrestling, sharing his personal experiences and insights. This highlights the ongoing challenges athletes face regarding long-term health.
Legacy and Validation: Being inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame provided RVD with a sense of validation, recogniSing his contributions to the wrestling industry and solidifying his legacy.
Love After Adversity: Rob’s relationship with wife Katie showcases the potential for healing and happiness after personal hardships, underscoring the importance of emotional connections.
Individuality in Wrestling: RVD’s commitment to staying true to himself, despite pressure to conform, serves as an inspiration for wrestlers to embrace their unique styles and personas.
Importance of Education: The efforts of Chris Nowinski and the Concussion Legacy Foundation highlight the necessity of educating athletes on the risks of head injuries and promoting safer practices.
Evolution of the Industry: The shift towards a more athletic and health-conscious approach in wrestling reflects a broader trend in sports, emphasizing the importance of fitness and wellbeing.
Community Building: The launch of Only Wrestlers aims to create a platform for fan interaction, showcasing the growing trend of digital engagement within the wrestling community.
REAL TALK FROM REAL TALENT
Wrestling Life with Ben Veal shines the spotlight brightly and positively on those who shaped wrestling's past, drive its present and influence its future. The show is widely available and features honest, open and inspiring conversations with many of the sport's biggest names, including Kurt Angle, Rob Van Dam, Mick Foley, Lilian Garcia, Candice Michelle, Marc Mero, Buff Bagwell, Doug Williams, Eric Bischoff and many more.
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About the author: Ben Veal is a writer, content creator, journalist, and host of Wrestling Life and the founder of Second Mountain Comms, a purpose-driven award-winning PR and marketing business that helps good people do good. A Chartered PR professional and passionate fan of the artform of professional wrestling for more than three decades, Ben is committed to sharing the real stories behind wrestling's talented performers.