As I prepare for my retirement match on Saturday, May 10, at Westchester County Center in White Plains, I can’t help but reflect on the journey that has brought me to this special moment in my career. For more than 20 years, I’ve had the privilege of stepping into the squared circle, entertaining fans and living out a dream that began as a child growing up in White Plains. The County Center has always been more than just a venue to me; it was the birthplace of my passion for professional wrestling and, now, it’s where I will close the book on my wrestling career.
I’ve traveled the world, getting the opportunity to perform in legendary venues like Madison Square Garden, all the way to Palermo, Italy, where I had the honor of winning and defending the Italian World Heavyweight Championship. I’ve even appeared alongside Academy Award-nominated actor Mickey Rourke in the film “The Wrestler.” Along the way, I’ve met incredible people, faced the toughest opponents and learned valuable lessons that have shaped who I am today, not only as a wrestler but as a trainer, wellness coach and person.
A special place
However, no matter where my travels took me, County Center always remained a touchstone. Growing up, I attended countless wrestling shows, concerts and baseball card events at the venue. It was there that I first dreamed of being a performer in the ring. That building holds the memories of my childhood, the echoes of every match I watched from the stands and the dreams of a young boy who knew one day he would be part of the action.
It’s ironic that despite getting the opportunity to wrestle all over the world, I’ve never had a chance to perform at County Center. To retire there, in front of family, freinds and fans who have supported me throughout my career, feels like the perfect storybook ending.
For my daughter
This match is especially meaningful, because it will be the first and only time my 7-year-old daughter will see me perform live in the ring. As a father, there’s nothing more fulfilling than having her in the crowd, witnessing the culmination of all I’ve worked for. Sharing this moment with her is a dream come true. It’s a full-circle story – starting as a child watching wrestling at County Center, becoming a professional wrestler and now, performing in the same building with my daughter sitting in the same seat I once occupied.
Hard work
The road to this point was far from easy. There were plenty of naysayers along the way who told me I couldn’t do it. They said it was unrealistic and that I should focus on something more practical. But I believed in myself. I worked tirelessly and pushed through every obstacle (and injury) that came my way. From my early days of training to wrestling in small venues across the country to performing in front of thousands, I proved that with determination, anything is possible.
So, on Saturday, May 10, I invite you to join me for a night of wrestling at County Center. It’s going to be a night to remember, that I can promise you.
For tickets, click here. For more on Northeast Wrestling, click here. And for more on Giovanni Roselli, visit giovanniroselli.com.
