I think it's just in my nature to irritate people and push things as far as I can. It's really benefited me in WWE.
My Instagram, my Twitter, is a form of advertisement for my business and what I do. Yeah, my brand. It is, but it is crazy how negative it is to everything!
It's a competitive business, and everybody wants to be the best. And when there's a new guy coming in, and there's buzz about him, 'Oh, he was a pro football player,' you instantly have people that don't like you because they're afraid you're going to take their spot.
That's what Twitter is: a very negative place.
I would challenge anyone who thinks that what we do isn't taxing on your body. People see what we do and think it would be fun to try, but I would challenge anyone to do what we do and show them how physically demanding it is. It deserves a lot more respect.
Honestly, I was a little bit arrogant because I came in and thought it was going to be easy and that I'd be on television in a year, no problem. Then you realize how many different things it takes to become a successful superstar, and it really is a rude awakening.
I'm here to leave my mark in WWE history.
I want to keep growing and keep getting better every day.
Just like when I was in the NFL, you've got to find those smaller dudes - and when you get your hands on them, it's bad news - all day.
There's a great feeling when you look in someone's eyes and they have that 'look of defeat,' and that's what I'm looking for, and that's my game plan.
It's two guys in particular. Norman Smiley, he got his hands on me the day I walked in the door - started teaching me the fundamentals and teaching me things that I use - but Billy Gunn, that guy has helped me evolve more than anyone.
I think, ya know, he's called out a few WWE Superstars; I wouldn't mind taking a crack at Conor McGregor, and he's, like, 165 pounds, 185 pounds soaking wet. So, I would like to slam him on his head a few times.
NXT is the professional level, and it's the best of the best.
I don't live for anyone other than myself, and I don't have a problem showing people or telling them.
I don't get paid by the hour; I go out there and get it done and get out. That's the way I want it to be.
There's a fire on 'SmackDown Live' that I don't think 'Raw' has.
I think 'Raw' is complacent in the fact that 'Raw's' been the flagship of WWE. 'Smackdown' wants to be number one.
Fit Finlay and guys like that, who can work with you and tailor who you are and what you're doing in the ring, are unbelievable.
The atmosphere we get with NXT and NXT fans, they're a die-hard group. They care deeply about NXT.
Metal fans have a connection. There is something there; just like the wrestling world, they are die hard about wrestling, and it's that passion that makes you enjoy what you do. That is why I go to metal shows; you watch these dudes on stage just shredding and letting loose. You can't help but love it.
