Wrestling Life with Ben Veal

Wrestling Life Online

Real talk from real talent: this is the podcast and YouTube interview series that shines the spotlight firmly - and positively - on the professional wrestling industry. ​ Each and every episode features candid, open, honest and inspiring conversations with special guests, showcasing the talented individuals who defined wrestling's past, influence its present and are shaping its future. ​ Award-winning communicator, journalist and lifelong wrestling fan Ben Veal invites guests worldwide to tell the stories that need telling.

  1. Oct 12

    Caylen Croft On The Dude Busters, WWE Release, Teaming With The Miz, Tough Enough, Marc Copani

    What happens when you achieve your childhood dream of becoming a WWE Superstar, only to then have to start all over and find a new direction in life? Kris Pavone, known to WWE fans as Caylen Croft, joins Wrestling Life with Ben Veal to discuss his journey from Ohio Valley Wrestling to WWE’s main roster, teaming with Trent Barreta as The Dude Busters, and finding a whole new purpose after leaving professional wrestling. Starting out as Chris Cage, Kris became an OVW Heavyweight and Tag Team Champion, learning under Jim Cornette and Paul Heyman and teaming with future WWE Champion The Miz. This conversation explores WWE’s developmental system, the planned partnership with The Miz on WWE television, and the release that forced Kris to reassess his dream. A second WWE opportunity brought a new name, a partnership with Trent Barreta and a main-roster debut on ECW. Kris reflects on The Dude Busters’ run, their move to SmackDown and the potential the team never had the chance to fulfil. The interview also explores Edge’s support for the team, advice received from The Heartbreak Kid Shawn Michaels and the challenge of speaking up for yourself behind the scenes.After his WWE release in November 2010, Kris chose to walk away from wrestling. His next chapter took him into elementary school art teaching, children’s books and coaching, drawing on lessons from the ring to help others find confidence and direction. This is an open, honest and inspiring conversation about ambition, second chances and learning to move forward when a lifelong dream comes to an end.

    Caylen Croft On The Dude Busters, WWE Release, Teaming With The Miz, Tough Enough, Marc Copani

Ratings & Reviews

5
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About

Real talk from real talent: this is the podcast and YouTube interview series that shines the spotlight firmly - and positively - on the professional wrestling industry. ​ Each and every episode features candid, open, honest and inspiring conversations with special guests, showcasing the talented individuals who defined wrestling's past, influence its present and are shaping its future. ​ Award-winning communicator, journalist and lifelong wrestling fan Ben Veal invites guests worldwide to tell the stories that need telling.

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