What up party people and welcome to another McInterview. Today I interviewed Matt Striker. Matt Striker did an interview for the DOI back in December 2002, in our third issue. (Available by sending an email to declaration_of_independents@hotmail.com) A year has passed and Striker has made leaps and bounds and established himself as a key player in many promotions around the east coast. In this interview, Striker talks about his love for wrestling, his accused homosexuality on the cough, world famous cough, USA Message board, what he did in 2003, and a lot more. This interview came out really good and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: Since your last interview with the DOI (Dec 2002 by Mike Zevon) you have accomplished alot. What do you think was your career highlight of 2003, and are you satisfied with the way 2003 went?
Matt Striker: I am very satisfied and grateful with the progress that has been made in the last year. I have had many highlights ranging from working with WWE,TNA, MLW, touring England, ROH all the way to winning tag titles with four different partners (Ace Darling, Simon Diamond, Scotty Charisma & Josh Daniels) in 5 different promotions. Today is a gift and that is why it is called the present.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What are your thoughts on the "World Famous" Usa Pro Message board, and who do you think posts most of the posts questioning your sexuality and your free time with gerbils?
Matt Striker: I believe that the opportunity for the fans to voice their opinions is one of the things that make our sport so great, with that said: The gay thing is simple; When a guy is out with his girlfriend and they see a good looking guy whether on the street or in a movie or magazine what is inevitably said by the boyfriend? "Oh, that guy is a fag." It is a defense mechanism and is basic psychoanalysis. Therefore, I do not mind the innuendo, as a matter of fact I was eager to participate in all of the Christopher St. Connections antics when Simon and I wrestled them. It is entertainment. If it works then go with it. The fans seem to enjoy it. I am fortunate to be blessed with a certain look. I will use what I have. I am comfortable with my sexuality. I have a girlfriend whom I love very much.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: I've said numerous times on the DOI site that Matt Striker can play any role in wrestling. How do you go from a cocky heel, to a smiling babyface, to an Arab to an 80's star to the other numerous characters you portray? Do you find it easy, or do you have to think about how you're going to do it?
Matt Striker: Wrestling and all the antics and fanfare that come with it has been innate in me for as long as I can remember. A wrestler is a special person, when a wrestler walks into a room he/she brings with them a presence that cannot be explained. I generally have an idea as to what I think will entertain the people. As it pertains to 3pw, that character is the closest representation to my real personality. I love wrestling, I have always been enamored with the sport and the athletes and their personalities. I always include the input of my fellow wrestlers whenever there is something that involves them, such as a character or behavior in a match. I just go out there and go with the flow and the fans seem to enjoy it.
I enjoy doing "gimmicks" but I also really enjoy a contest of strength and skill. Trying to wear down your opponent and defeat him is the real essence of the sport.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: You won a few titles this year. What was it like winning the ECWA Tag Titles with Ace Darling and the USA Pro Tag Titles with Simon Diamond? Also, what was it like teaming with those veterans and what were the similarities and differences between teaming with Ace and Simon?
Matt Striker: I have garnered a wealth of knowledge from both Simon and Ace, respectively. Simon sat me down once and told me "this is not rocket science" and I have kept that advice with me ever since. Simon has helped me understand how to control the emotion of a match. The ebb and flow of a contest is important. For a while it was important for me to have Simon's acceptance on a personal and professional level, I have learned a lot from him and I think our tag team reflects this. Many people have said he and I are a WWE caliber team, I appreciate that compliment greatly. I look forward to gaining the USAPro Tag titles once again. Teaming with Simon Diamond has helped me a great deal and has raised my level as a professional.
When I first found out I was teaming with Ace Darling I was very excited. Ace is a Super 8 icon and has done everything there is to do in this sport. He and I are friends before we are tag team partners which translates itself into our work. I look at Ace like an OLDER brother. I have asked him many questions about when he was at my level and his advice has been priceless. Having Ace Darling and Jim Kettner as influences in the same room for an extended period of time has helped me immeasurably. I talk to Ace often and he and I just get along very well. I feel that after I am out of wrestling I will still have a lot of friends that I met in the sport, Ace Darling will be one of them.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: Where did the whole Strikervision idea come from? Will Strikervision return in USA PW?
Matt Striker: There is only one mind from which a concept such as STV can ooze and that is the mind of Harry "Slash." Harry and I discussed it and we both knew it would work. He is a luminary when it comes to a lot of things. I have wrestled (no pun intended) with the morality of "Strikervision" both from a religious and professional standpoint. We as wrestlers are role models and at times we are asked to do things that compromise our integrity. I can easily dismiss STV as entertainment and leave it at that but I know the Lord is watching and He sees everything we do. I try very hard to stop and talk to kids and set the right example. If you noticed at the last show I made an announcement, before STV went on, to remove any children under the age of 13 from ringside. If parents don't accompany their children or monitor what they do, then part of the blame has to be put on them. This IS in fact wrestling and the idea is to do what is good for the sport and good for the business aspect. The bottom line remains, if parents don't want their children exposed to something then take a vested interest in where your kids are going, who they are going with, what they are listening to, and watching, etc, etc. Strikervision will return, but there will be changes as far as who the program belongs to. I feel that a guy like Billy Reil would be perfect for an STV angle- it should be called "Reil TV", Knightlife shares everything else so why not this?
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: You had a storied career in UCW/ICW. What were your feelings when you heard it closed?
Matt Striker: When I first wrestled LowRida in the Elks, I really thought Jac and Harry had something going with UCW. As problems arose I hoped that UCW would stay afloat. I had been there since the beginning paying my dues as a security guard and just trying to get a chance. Once UCW closed and came back as ICW it was never the same. We all hoped for it to be successful, I guess it just wasn't meant to be.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: Who would you rather spend a night out with, Christina Aguilera or Britney Spears?
Matt Striker: Interesting, umm Britney, I think she is prettier and would probably be fun to go out with. I have a girlfriend, so if Nick Lachey or Jack Johnson come along for her then I will go out with Brittney or Jessica Simpson. Ultimately though I will go home with my girlfriend...
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: In 3PW, you channel the spirit of '80s wrestling. How much fun do you have in the ring doing that? Also who are your favorite 80s stars to imitate?
Matt Striker: HotStuff is one of my favorite things to do in wrestling. Growing up I was a huge fan of Eddie Gilbert. The idea came about when I first worked for Jasmine St. Claire, Tod Gordon and The Blue Meanie. The show was in the ECW arena and I told Tod that when I am a good guy, I am very 80's oriented (Ricky Morton-ish) and he and I agreed that the South Philly fans are going to love to hate me. So we took it one step further and started to incorporate some subtle "old" mannerisms. As the months went on, it was Tod's idea to call me "HotStuff." It took off and became an entity all to its own. It is designed to make people remember why they started to love wrestling in the first place. It is an honor to carry the moniker of "Hot Stuff."
I really enjoy doing Jimmy Snuka, Ivan Putski, Tito, everyone ... there is no one particular favorite. My experiences in 3pw have been absolutely amazing. I get to live out all my childhood dreams (as I do everytime I step into the ring). I get to work closely with Joey Matthews who has helped me tremendously. On top of all of that I get to talk to and learn from men such as: Terry Funk, Dusty Rhodes, Kevin Sullivan, and Abdullah the Butcher. It is truly surreal.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: You have worked for alot of promotions. What are your favorite promotions to wrestle for? Least favorite?
Matt Striker: I enjoy wrestling- period. There are some places where I learn valuable lessons more so than others. ECWA, WORLD ONE, MLW USApro 3PW, XW (UK) JAP, JCW, CCW, ACW, WXW, I have earned opportunities in all of them and I am thankful for that.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: You have also worked with alot of wrestlers in your career. Who are your favorite wrestlers to work with? On the other hand, what wrestlers don't you like wrestling or working with?
Matt Striker: I enjoy working with Simon, Ace, Steve Corino, CW Anderson, Roddy Piper, Kid Kruel, Jimmy Snuka, HonkyTonk Man, Jim Duggan, The Samoans, Chris Candido, Bam Bam Bigelow,Los Lunatics, Boogalou, Chris Hamrick, John Walters, Johnny Storm, Dan Barry, Josh Daniels, Rob Eckos, Joey Matthews, Crowbar, Mikey, the SAT, Bobby G, DRS, Chris Devine, Homicide, the Hit Squad, so many others......
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What is your favorite beer?
Matt Striker: Heineken, I rarely drink anymore though...
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: Do you have any prematch superstitions?
Matt Striker: I pray, I give thanks to the Lord and Savior for blessing me with the ability and opportunity to do what I love. I remind myself that I am in a position of influence and pray for the strength to lead by example.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: You were in JAP as Prince Striker, but haven't returned to JAP since April. What is your current status with JAP, and when will you return?
Matt Striker: I speak with Ray and Frank often. There has been some issues with some members of the group but I am still on the current roster and am very much a part of the JAP family.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What are your feelings on the other Striker, Matt Stryker? How many times do you get confused for him? Also, can you spell your name for everyone here, as sometimes it's spelt different all over the place?
Matt Striker: The "other" Matt Stryker is a very talented athlete. I was given my name at Gleasons Gym by Mack Daddy Flexxx among others, I had no idea there was another "Matt Stryker." I found out later on, that he had a developmental deal and had been wrestling longer than I had, so out of respect, I changed my name and dropped the Matt and became: "Striker" ( with an "i")
He and I have met several times, there was a time when we were going to wrestle down in Les Thatcher's Heartland Wrestling. I would very much like to wrestle him, if not for anything else than because I know the fans would get a kick out of it and I feel I can learn from him. I have watched his matches closely he is a great wrestler he has a great look, even if I wanted to hate on him, I cannot.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: You have worked for MLW under the name Matt Martel. What is it like working for MLW? Also, what are your feelings on this whole MLW "war/tiff" with ROH?
Matt Striker: I like MLW very much. My first match there received great acclaim due to Jamal's leap from the top ringpost OVER the railing onto a table. That was one of the most painful things I had ever experienced and I still have scars on my back from it. I am glad to be part of MLW, I think they are destined for great things. As far as the "war" I do not know anything about it.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: Speaking of ROH, you've wrestled in ROH only a few select times. What is your status with them?
Matt Striker: I was given an opportunity by Gabe, Rob and Doug to work for one of the leading promotions running today. I had a great time, I talk to them often and I am always available to work for them again should the opportunity present itself
Word Association
Frank Goodman Trivia wizard, gave me my start, we became friends this year, He is a good guy, a good father and a good husband.
Jac Sabboth had the right intentions with ICW/UCW, leads with his heart, a real fan, tells my students my secret identity...
Harry Slash Luminary sums him up best. I still want to jam with him. Another friend outside of wrestling. Deceptively quick and a great mind!!!
Ricky O Funny, up front guy, really has good intentions, I enjoy being part of the JCW family.
Fat Frank sick, twisted and perverted, in a good way..JAPW is a good company and they gave me an opportunity...I miss Bayonne and Seaside Heights. Frank , Ray, ModTrom and myself always get along.
Jasmin St Claire SMART!!! professional, beautiful, really a nice person when u get to know her, I talk to her alot. Together with Tod Gordon and Blue Meanie she makes 3pw a great place to be!!
Blue Meanie Hillarious!! Refuses to talk to me in person but online we are inseparable. I really enjoy hanging out with him. He is very cool...
Rob Feinstein Another friend, has a good thing with ROH, sometimes people misunderstand him, he really is a fan in his heart, We get along well
Gabe Soplosky Gabe understands what he has with ROH he runs it the way he feels it needs to be ran to be successful and no one can argue with the success they have found. He gave me a chance in Rochester and I thank him for that. He is always cordial to me. Indy wrestling is better for Gabe, Rob and Doug Gentry.
Jim Kettner I look up to Jim and have so much respect for him. I learn more in one night at an ECWA show than I do in 6 months anywhere else. I WOULD NOT BE WHERE I AM TODAY IF NOT FOR JIM KETTNER AND THE ENTIRE ROSTER OF THE ECWA
Court Bauer Court has a vision, MLW is unlike anything today. He set out to bring a type of contest and athlete to the US that has not been seen in some time. He is another person that indy wrestling can thank.
Damian Dragon Friend. Damian has found love and I am so happy for him. He is a very talented wrestler.
Homicide I have learned a great deal from Homicide, both in and out of the ring. He has gone to lengths to look out for me. To be accepted into the Doghouse crew as one of their own is one of the greatest compliments I can ever be given. I am his favorite white boy. I am glad that he, myself, JTrain and the rest of the guys are friends.
Low Ki Loki commands respect. Him and I talk on a level that leaves me thinking right on through to the next day. His discipline and dedication are inspirational to me. He is funny as well when the time calls for it. He enjoys my jokes about Prince Nana
Monsta Mack It sucks to be Steve!! As much as I love Mack I will never drive anywhere with him-ever!!!! He is a great talent and if given the opportunity will have a great singles career.
Mafia I feel like I have a connection to Maff. We get along really well. It is strange but we just seem to have a bond. I desperately want to work a program against him. I think I can learn a lot and the fans will see some great storytelling and an amazing athletic contest.
SAT I hate them...nah, they helped me get to where I am. I love them. Together we comprise the "seven sons," there have been so many adventures with me, Joel, Jose, Red, Brian XL, Divine (we miss you) and Quiet Storm. They named there little brother after me what more can be said. We are all brothers.
DRS Ahhh you like-a the juice eh?? the DRS and Matt Striker should be in the Mid South along w Eddie Guapo. Negro and Blade know how to entertain, it's that simple. I always watch their matches and I thoroughly enjoy them every time.
Solution Papadon and his ego can ride in the trunk for all I care...Harold,,err I mean Havok is cool..in all seriousness, these guys have been quietly doing the job, making a name for themselves. They are great. They are poised for big things. Papadon just has to stop stealing my moves!!
Johnny Rodz Johnny is the reason I am here. First and foremost he taught how to be a professional in and out of the ring. I am a better person for knowing Johnny Rodz.
Tim Arson I am so glad he is better. Timmy has every tool. He is another guy, if given a chance will make it somewhere.
Boogalou Boogalou is Daddy. I realize now that Boogalou let me learn the hard way for my own good. He has always looked out for me. He has paid his dues and the world is his. He reminds me of a young Edward James Olmos. Now get it outta here!!!!!!!
Los Lunatics Ahh, my brother LowRida and my arch nemesis Guapo. Lowrida was my first tag partner, we were the original Los Lunatics, when I wrestled as Hydro-but I must say that Guapo and Lowrida have taken the name further than I ever could have. Guapo is the Gino Hernandez to my Chris Adams..we have a love hate relationship he loves to hate me..he is awesome and the "Lucos" have done great things in WXW..now what you know about this hog ?
Rob Eckos His abs are a little bit better but im better looking with a better body and more skills. In the last 8 months or so Eckos, Josh Daniels, Damian Adams and I have really become friends I genuinely like these guys. Rob is a great worker. I enjoy teaming with him or working with him in general. He is a great shooter.
John Walters I am a big fan, he is one of my favorites, he has really cool moves. One day he will write the sequel to "Slingblade"
Knightlife The Knightlife idea I believe came from Danny Drake and Frank Goodman. Every month it gets better and better and the fans are absolutely AWESOME. The wedding was fantastic due to the build up, its great when a storyline has time to mature. The pouring of the urine on the SAT's was interesting and the most recent mockery of Kruel, SLyk, D'lo and April was hysterical and fun. I give a lot of credit to Frank Goodman on these angles, he gives us creative control on a lot of things. We take most of our cues from Simon Diamond. Without him alot of these angles would be nowhere near as entertaining as they have been. The entire group has input and that's what makes the angles effective. Mike Tobin has really made a name for himself as of late as a singles wrestler. Tony Lo has really adapted to the world of wrestling which isn't an easy thing. He has respect for the sport and that is important. Danny Drake was the mouth that roared and we miss him, Billy Reil is on the verge of something great yet again. Despite what some people may say, I have never had any problem with Billy, we get along great. Congratulations on your baby..heard its a girl...hook me up
Dana Dameson Dana has caused a little stir as of late. If she does the right thing and has respect for the sport the sport will be good to her. I worked with her a bit showing her some of the traits of a good valet, I read that she is continuing her training in NJ, like I said if she respects the sport, good things are possible. Strikervision opened the door for her, she has a good body and likes the spotlight, let see where it takes her.
Miss Michelle She is as sweet as she is pretty. I enjoy working with her.
Becky Bayless Many people have said many things about Becky and I, the truth is we live 10 minutes away from each other and have become very good friends-nothing more. She is an integral part of Knightlife. She is having a great run in ROH and deserves the opportunity. Lately, she has been expanding to Ian Rotten's IWA Mid South where she is very popular. Becky has surrounded herself with good people to learn from. She is very smart--most of the time.
Simply Luscious I have wrestled Luscious and I can tell you she can really go. She has the desire, looks and body for wrestling. Her and I also get along very well, we have alot of things in common besides wrestling. She is a sweet person, very funny and someone who always makes me smile.
The internets role on wrestling I dont wrestle for the Internet to be honest. I think it is great that fans can find out results and discussions in no time at all. The Internet helps give exposure to places that may otherwise remain uncovered. Message Boards and "dirt sheets" are part of the culture nowadays I suppose, again, anything that can increase the business of our sport is good to an extent. It is a shame that anyone can sit in front of a keyboard and recite random garbage as fact. As with anything else it is up to you, the reader to go out and pursue the truth yourself, read, learn, research, educate yourself, that way you empower yourself and know the truth.
Roadtrips A great part of our lifestyle. You really get close to your traveling partners on the road. Lifetime bonds are made here. Roadtrips are hard to explain until you go on many of them, you will never know the things that go on. After a while the road becomes so familiar.
Mafia said it best: We dont have a traditional social life like other people, we are away every weekend and thus, the "boys" become our family, our "brothers". Being on the road can be fun when you are with your "family". You are never really alone. You get used to hotels and airports, and you never really unpack. Sometimes we are tired but there is a passion in us that far exceeds any normal persons desires.
Politics in wrestling I am a conservative and I support George Bush. As far as wrestling politics I try not to get involved- this is a sport, a lot of people forget that....
Bastion Booger I once saw him getting gas on the NJ Turnpike, (that’s not really a thought- more like a memory)
Giant Gonzales His body suit was cool...
Declaration of Independents Great site, the guys that run it are my buds, I like that the DOI covers promotions and wrestlers that people are unfamiliar with or may not get enough exposure to. The DOI has really grown in the last year.
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What wrestlers do you want to work with that you never worked with yet?
Matt Striker: Christopher Daniels, NIck Dinsmore, Matt Stryker & Kurt Angle
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What are short term and long term career goals? What do you plan to accomplish in 2004?
Matt Striker: To entertain, to touch as many people as I can and to lead by example. I want to be in the WWE. I want to travel. I have had the opportunity to wrestle in England and I feel the International exposure will benefit me. I want to work in Japan.
I am having fun and living my dream. I just want to entertain and compete to the best of my abilities
Sean “The MiC” McCaffrey: What do you want to say to anyone reading this?
Matt Striker: Thank You. Your time and attention are appreciated
