Disturbed Damian Dragon
What up boys and girls, and welcome to another McInterview. Today’s guest is “Disturbed” Damian Dragon. One half of Disturbed Dreams, with Foxxy Dreams, Disturbed Damian Dragon has been having intense matches, and really honing his craft from JCW to ICW to now USA Pro and NYWC. Among those feds, and others, Damian Dragon is an exciting wrestler to watch, and he recently sat down with us to give us this interview. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: How did you get into pro wrestling, and why did you want to get into it?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: Got hooked as a kid in the 80's. I was huge on the Dynamite Kid & Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat. Of course, my friends and I use to "wrestle" in the street. My father would yell at me that I wasn't going to be a wrestler so cut it out. I was like 9 years old at the time, little did he know..lol. But as a few years went by, I studied and taught karate. After 12 years of that, I retired from it all. Then one night I caught Raw on cable. Got re-hooked BIG time! I always loved the athleticism, and to me then and still today, it is a sport. I like the physical toughness, and ring psychology that comes with it. But most of all I really enjoy performing in front of a crowd. I always have. Hearing people react to the in ring actions or simply just a reaction to a person's theme music, puts goose bumps on my arms. So I thought (more like obsessed) about it heavily, an ex-girlfreind told me I should go for it if I really wanted to do it. So after a HUGE fight with my father over it, I put together up every dime I had, and starting training anyways..lol
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: Who were your favorite wrestlers growing up? Least favorite?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: The Dynamite Kid & Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat when I was growing up were definite favorites. I even got to see them live a week before Wrestlemania 2 at MSG thanks to my dad, amongst others that I later have had the honor to actually share locker rooms with. As far as least favorite, I really was not into Hulk Hogan. To me, even at that age, I never saw him as up to par with the wrestling abilities of those I admired.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What are your feelings about hearing that ICW has shutdown?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: Very saddened (if it is shutting it's doors for sure this time). I always saw ICW as the "little engine that could", so to speak. And despite the "abortion" of a match I had at the last show, it was an honor to perform in ICW's last show. If it was going to be the last, I definitely would've liked to have left a better moment in its history. I would've rather just worked a good match in full gimmick with Foxxy Dreams by my side. On a plus side of it all, I feel ICW definitely left it's own positive mark on indy wrestling (despite what many might say in disagreement), whether it was small or big.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: Your partner, Foxxy Dreams, and Ricky O were involved recently in a squabble, even going as far as Ricky O firing Disturbed Dreams. What were you thinking during this time, and now that it's resolved, when will you be back in JCW?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: Well, to say I wasn't involved in that whole misunderstanding, would be an understatement. Upon his decision to let us go, at first we are upset and felt the past year of hard work just got wasted. The thought of walking away from the business did cross our minds. But after a few days of reflecting upon all we did and accomplished for ourselves in that time, developing our gimmicks and abilities further than expected, we realized that walking away was the wrong decision. Also oddly enough, a few other promotions contacted us for work, go figure..lol. So we looked at it as possibly a sign to just keep growing career wise. But I guess times heals, as we worked things out with Ricky O & have not missed any time from JCW, as we were asked to return after the situation had simmered over. I just hope it is all completely behind us and we can move on to doing even better things with JCW. We'll just have to wait and see.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: You have started working USA PRO again. What, if any, changes do you see in Frank Goodman and the product? What do you hope to accomplish there?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: To say I wasn't nervous about going back would be an understatement. But, things seemed very cool and it was just awesome to be working with some great friends in this business (despite what many will say on the message boards). As far as changes, Goodman has definitely upped the level of name talent he brings in. Those such as D-Lo Brown, Saturn, Raven, amongst many others. Plus, it seems he plans his main angles on a much grander scale now. It just seems like a really good time to be back, and Goodman has been really great and seems open minded to see what Foxxy Dreams & I will bring to USA-Pro. He also is giving me a chance as far as in ring, to see the improvements I've made by working with some of the younger, up and coming talent he has. As far as what we want to accomplish, well quite honestly at this time, just a fair chance to showcase the abilities we have. I do feel this time round with USA-Pro I have more focus, done some hard training, and improvement in my in-ring ability, all we want at this time is simply the chance to show that and do great things with USA-Pro.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What do you think has been your best match, and why?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: This is a question where a wrestler just asks for heat..lol. Because sometimes others you've worked with say "What about me?"...lol. But to be honest, my mini feud with Striker. Our first match for USA-Pro at the Fire House in Lawrence, Long Island, I believe. The heat was incredible and the in-ring chemistry was just there. Then our second encounter at ICW's first anniversary show at the Elks Lodge. We were so worried we couldn't top our last, and I felt I really had a lot to prove. It was also the debut of my darker, more me, persona. But that match was just off the charts. We walked in with the understanding that we could just work really solid, the storytelling was good, it was innovative for both of us as we BOTH show cased wrestling that fans had no idea we were capable of. If given the opportunity, with his vast improvement in wrestling at this point, along with mine, I definitely would like to reignite that feud and truly put on a great wrestling match like I know we can.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: "Disturbed" Damian Dragon is underrated, is a statement that many people who follow indy wrestling make, including myself. What are your opinions on it?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: It truly is an honor to be thought of that way by so many. Again, despite what many think or have thought of me, I am not one of the greatest with in ring confidence. But, I did take it upon myself over the last year to train harder, improve my in ring abilities and style, along with my gimmick. But if people are dubbing me underrated, great. It just may get even more interest in others to see what the talk is about. I just hope in time I'll be able to climb out from that "title", and stand amongst those I feel are the best in the business and prove I can stand in that same crowd. But until then I'll just keep training hard, busting my back every match out, and try to keep the rumbling going about the very underrated "Disturbed" Damian Dragon.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What feds do you like working for the most? The least?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: This is going to sound like a dodge on the question, but it is the truth. This comes from finally understanding what my trainer, WWF Hall of Famer Johnny Rodz, and in listening to things Simon Diamond has said to me in conversations. A lesson that has finally clicked in my head over the year. I look at every promotion I work with as a learning experience. No matter how big or small. It is just another opportunity to meet other workers, work in front of new crowds, and if nothing else, just become another great road story...lol. But I look at them all equally and enjoy every opportunity to meet and work with new people.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What do you think about the current state of indy wrestling?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: Financially, it has gotten very tough. The pay days aren't the same, simple because the crowds aren't the same as far as numbers. Not many are drawing like they should. Plus, I think many of the newer fans to wrestling, only have WWE to turn to. Thus they get stuck on just the "entertainment" side of it. This causes them to miss out on the sport that is slowly dying that a few are trying to keep alive in this business. Guys like Homicide, Low-Ki, Striker, even myself & Foxxy Dreams, amongst many others, look at this STILL as sport. But, since WWE is the only fed on television, as not everyone gets NWA-TNA yet. That void used to be filled by ECW, as it exposed fans to the more athletic side of what we do. Showcasing the stronger style matches, lucha, and so many other innovations to this business. So due to most fans only knowing WWE, it leaves them with tunnel vision on this business and they do not explore the true heart of the business, the indys. Plus there are so many other things, like young kids coming in too soon, missing a lot of proper training. But it is up to those that still carry the heart and knowledge of the old school, to keep it alive with every performance, and maybe even guide the younger kids breaking in.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What do you think about message board postings?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: Ah, the double edged sword...lol. When used correctly it can come as a really beneficial thing to companies as well as wrestlers. If all fans wrote constructively with their critiques, message boards would be a lot better. Also feds would benefit heavily, as some have, where fans get to voice what they'd like to see at an event. However, many simply choose to write in ways that truly have no place in wrestling. However, it is also up to promoters to monitor the way the boards are dealt with. I'm all for freedom of speech, it is our right. But there is a catch 22 when a poster writes derogatory remarks about a wrestler and or their personal lives. As they fail to realize when they go to far, it falls into deformation of character (which is illegal), also invasion of privacy, whether your statement be true or not. At this time I am not the greatest fan of message boards, but I do respect the fact that people get to have their voices heard....again the double edged sword.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: Do you have any pre match superstitions?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: If you still do not get some sort of nerves jumping in your body, whether it be nervousness, excitement, or intensity, before walking out the curtain, your heart may not be for this business. I still get those jitters through me 8 years after my first time walking into a wrestling school and intend to keep them with me the remainder of my career.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: You have started work for NYWC, what's that been like?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: Absolutely great! Foxxy and I are so honored we were asked to be a part of their promotion. A group of young guys that have a very old school mentality on the psychology and even more importantly respect for not just the business, but locker room etiquette as well. A great group of guys and Foxxy Dreams and I look forward to doing great things with NYWC.
Word Association
Foxxy Dreams
You got time for another interview...lol. Not a manager, definitely NOT a valet, but my partner in this business. Unknown to many, an excellent mind for the sport of professional wrestling. Outside this business, my best friend, greatest motivator, and most obviously the deepest love of my life who I can't wait to see walk down the aisle on October 31st with me on what will be our greatest day-and I do NOT mean the wrestling aisle.
Noel
Still learning, but a tremendous learning spirit and will go further in time.
Shawn Sheridan
The hardest guy I've worked with in ring and out cause he makes me laugh so much...There have been so many times I had to fight from breaking character cause he had me laughing so much inside. Very creative and will also go further if he doesn't lose track of what has brought him to the forefront in the eyes of many wrestling writers.
Ricky O
Passionate inside the business and out. A strong spirited and big hearted person.
Frank Goodman
A smart business man who truly is KEEPING the NY indy scene alive.
Jac Sabboth
A BIG heart for this business. Maybe all too big at times that caused for hard business situations. I wouldn't count him out yet though in the wrestling business. Personally, has helped me through some hard points in my life and I am forever grateful.
Danny Demanto
I've seen the best of him, which is his love for this business and determination to do his best. I have also seen the worst of him, which is his mouth, which has lead him into trouble more times than I can count. All he needs to do is get control of one, to further himself at the other.
Harry Slash
A mind for this business that has left me dizzy to listen to at times. But extremely intelligent and only wants to bring out the best for those he writes for.
Tim Arson
Raw potential! Has no idea of his own strength and it is scary. Some of the most intelligent promos I've ever heard. But still needs to hone his in ring skills further. When he does, look out indys!
Ace Darling
Only worked him once, but been around him for over a year now. During that time I've learned so much. Great experience that he is does not mind sharing with others.
Devin Sturgis
Great promos (although a little long..lol)! A very down to earth guy and the most soul I've seen for a white guy..lol
Marilyn Manson
Daddy, when are you coming home?
"Smart fans"
Some good, some bad-but bottom line they keep old school alive!
Road trips
Too many funny stories. Johnny Rodz once told me, the best learning lessons in this business are often learned on the road, he was right.
John Curse
Great guy to work for! You can use my boots anytime..lol
Hulk Hogan
A legend! Kept wrestling alive in the 80's!
Stone Cold
Kept wrestling & WWF alive in the late 90's & new millennium. Also the best thing to happen to The Rock's career.
The Rock
Needs to pick his career and stick with it. He is losing fan respect by coming and going as he is.
Raven
Only quickly met him at the last USA-Pro show as he ran in and we were running out..lol. Would love for "Disturbed Dreams" to be a part of The Gathering in NWA or a new Flock in USA-Pro! Also think he is also the largest underused talent WWE had and enjoy that NWA & ROH are using him for his true potential!
Gangrel
UNDERUSED!
Papa Shango
Different gimmick to say the least.
Shawn Michaels
Very influential as I was starting out on my career. Truly is one of the all time greatest in this business.
Julio Dinero
Another great talent who is getting a very well deserved chance at the spotlight in NWA. Also one of our coolest friends. Only worked him once, but learned a lot. Would love to work him again if not team with him-maybe in The Gathering...yeah that's the ticket..lol
Simon Diamond
Very influential on the further development of Disturbed Dreams. Put us on a more thought out path. We've learned so much from him and want the best for him. GIVE THIS MAN A SHOT!
Kurt Angle
His debut years ago was less than stellar. He turned it all around to become one of the absolute best in this business!
Bastion Booger
Who thought of that one!?!
Giant Gonzales
Great Muta's worst nightmare to work in Japan..lol
Declaration of Independents
A great site dedicated NOT just to the name indy guys. But helping get other lesser known talent some exposure. Cool group of guys!
"Disturbed" Damian Dragon
More passionate about this business that anyone realizes. Full of a determination for bigger and brighter things for "Disturbed Dreams" success in the wrestling industry. O yeah, let us not for, underrated..lol
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What are your short term and long term goals? Have you accomplished any goals yet that you have set for yourself as a wrestler?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: Short term, making sure Foxxy Dreams is left with the most happy and memorable wedding day possible. On a professional level, to get our names out to ROH, NWA-TNA, and ECWA in hopes of opportunity. Long term to have accomplished those goals, showing we do have the talent and ability to be amongst many of our friends and peers who are out there already. To prove not souly to fans, but myself, that I am able to stand in a ring and compete with those that are at the top of the industry. Plus, at least do one tour of Japan, and Mexico if at all possible.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What would be your dream match?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: Past legend, undoubtedly that has to be Ricky "The Dragon" Steamboat. Present day, there is a list if guys I'd love to work from Simon Diamond to Chris Divine. Believe me it is quite a list, and I do intend on fulfilling most of it. A very close second would be, Raven, Julio Dinero, & "Disturbed" Damian Dragon (with Foxxy Dreams) VS. Simon Diamond, Shane Douglas & C.M.Punk (with Alexis Laree)....hey, we gotta get the girls involved too, lol.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What do you want to say to anyone reading this?
“Disturbed” Damian Dragon: For those that have been very responsible to helping the growth and success of "Disturbed Dreams" (our JCW family, Brett Schwan, Jim Brambilla, Simon Diamond, The Blood Bank Boys, J. Kronic, Mama Lethal, everyone we've had the honor of working this year, those in NY that remembered & welcomed us back, and so many others, especially the fans), thank you so much from the bottom of our dark hearts. You truly have added to our confidence and have been key factors in molding who we are. Our success as of late, is truly yours.
A "Disturbed Dreams" website & merchandise is all in the works, and will be ready in the near future. For now you can check out Yahoo! Groups : X6Disturbed6Dreams6X for current pics, show dates, as well as links to our Easy Journals. Other than that we look forward to doing even better as time goes on. Thanks for the honor of selecting me for this interview.
Dark days will rule over the wrestling scene, as "Disturbed Dreams" continues it's journey.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: Thanks for doing this interview with us.
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