In an exclusive interview on the “Rulebreakers with Saraya” podcast, former World Heavyweight Champion Jake Hager (fka Jack Swagger) has announced his retirement from professional wrestling. The AEW and WWE veteran revealed that he is stepping away from the ring to focus on his family and his new trucking company, aptly named “Haulin’ Oates.”
“I’m Getting Out of Wrestling”
Hager was direct when asked by host Saraya what he has been up to since his last appearance in AEW. “I’m getting out of wrestling. I’m pretty much, I can say I’m retired from it,” he stated. “I started a trucking company, and so running routes through Tampa and Florida… I’m excited, something to stick my teeth into, you know, hard work always pays off.”
The “Haulin’ Oates” Era
He revealed the clever name of his new business venture, a play on the iconic 80s rock duo. “The name of it is Haulin’ Oates,” he said. The company currently has two trucks on the road, with plans to expand. While he owns the company, he clarified that he is not one of the drivers.
A Desire to Be “Super Dad”
The primary motivation for Hager’s decision to retire is his desire to be more present for his children, who are now 10 and 13 years old. “Right now, my kids are 10 and 13… I really enjoy being dad, being home for it and trying not to f*ck ’em up,” he explained. “What makes me happy? I want to be super dad, for sure.”
The Grueling Schedule of a Wrestling Parent
He reflected on the difficult travel schedule he maintained for years in WWE, which kept him away from his family. “That schedule back in the day, it was f*cking nuts, we’re barely home,” he recalled. “So it was probably, like, so difficult for you… I remember you always just talking about your kids all the time.” Now, he gets to be the full-time father he always wanted to be.
Will He Ever Return?
While he stated he is “pretty much” retired, Hager did leave the door open for a potential return to the independent circuit in the future, just not right away. “It’s not my focus right now,” he said. “Maybe getting back… maybe, like, six months or so.” For now, his focus remains on his family and his new business.
The full, in-depth interview with Jake Hager, where he discusses his entire career, can be heard on the “Rulebreakers with Saraya” podcast.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Rulebreakers With Saraya with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
