DeepSummary
Ivar, a professional wrestler with WWE's tag team The Viking Raiders, sat down with Chris Van Vliet to discuss his recent singles run and the incredible athleticism he showcases at his large size. He talked about how he was paired with his tag team partner Erik, beginning his wrestling career in 2001, and the various name changes they went through from War Machine to War Raiders to The Viking Experience before settling on The Viking Raiders.
Ivar revealed that it was William Regal who noticed them and led to their signing with WWE in 2018. He also spoke about his recent run as a singles competitor while Erik recovers from injury, fun moments like Valhalla putting antlers on Michael Cole, and how a match with Kofi Kingston changed the trajectory of his career.
Throughout the interview, Ivar expressed gratitude for his journey, the support from fans who believed in him, and the chance to see people he trained like Kofi Kingston and Tommaso Ciampa succeed. He also discussed his backyard wrestling days, different in-ring styles he enjoys, and the impact of a pivotal shoulder injury on his perspective.
Key Episodes Takeaways
- Ivar showcases incredible athleticism and versatility in the ring despite his large stature.
- William Regal played a pivotal role in getting The Viking Raiders signed to WWE after noticing them on the independent circuit.
- The Viking Raiders went through several name changes before settling on their current moniker.
- Ivar's match against Kofi Kingston was a turning point that kickstarted his successful singles run.
- Ivar's journey was fueled by a desire to validate the belief of his supporters rather than prove doubters wrong.
- A serious shoulder injury nearly derailed Ivar's WWE dreams, but he persevered.
- The contrasting dynamics between Ivar and Erik as the "small powerhouse" and "large high-flyer" made The Viking Raiders a unique tag team.
- Ivar expressed immense gratitude for the support of fans and the success of wrestlers he trained.
Top Episodes Quotes
- “So Kofi just being unselfish and being the great human being that he is, because he's a former world champion, he doesn't have to do good things for me, and he does. He does for everybody.“ by Ivar
- “The biggest mistake we make in our life is thinking we have time.“ by Kobe Bryant
- “What's made us a very successful team is our dynamic, because it's flip flopped. From everything else you've ever seen before. Eric is the small one, but he's the strong one. He's the power, and I'm the large one, but I'm the high flyer. And that's what makes us a very unique tag team.“ by Ivar
Entities
Company
Product
Person
Book
Episode Information
Insight with Chris Van Vliet
Blue Wire
5/23/24