Former WWE World Heavyweight Champion Jake Hager is officially stepping into a new arena of combat sports. Appearing on TMZ Inside the Ring, the man formerly known as Jack Swagger announced that he has signed a multi-match contract with Power Slap.
“I’m so excited to announce that I’ve signed with UFC Power Slap, and they are doing a show April 17 in Vegas, live,” Hager revealed. “That’s the Friday before [WrestleMania]. I’ll be competing in that show in the heavyweight division. I’ve been told I have a very slappable face.”
Hager noted that he has signed a six-appearance contract and was recruited by Sin Bodhi, the organization’s head of talent relations. Despite the controversy surrounding the sport’s safety, Hager remains undeterred. “You’re signing up to get slapped and trying to slap someone back as hard as you can. So I expect injuries to happen. I’m not worried about it, to be honest.”
Retirement Reversal?
While Hager had previously stepped away from professional wrestling due to severe shoulder injuries, he told TMZ that his health has taken a dramatic turn for the better.
“When I retired, my body was banged up pretty badly… my shoulders were hanging on by a thread,” Hager explained. “Everything’s a lot better now and healthier. I wouldn’t rule out me wrestling again.”
However, Hager was quick to clarify that a return to his most recent home, AEW, is likely not on the table. When asked if he would return to any specific company, he replied, “I know there’s one company that I wouldn’t be wrestling for.” Hager also shared a surprising secret about his AEW tenure: “I hate that [purple] hat. It’s more over than I am.”
The “Hauling Oates” Empire
Outside of physical combat, Hager has been building a successful logistics business. He currently runs a trucking company titled “Hauling Oates.”
“Hauling Oates, making your dreams come true,” Hager joked. “I manage the company from the office here and hire drivers. I only own two trucks, so I’m like a ‘flee,’ but we’re getting there. I’m trying to become a fleet owner right now.”
Fans looking to meet Hager can find him at WrestleCon in Las Vegas during WrestleMania week, where he will be signing alongside Mike Chioda, Al Snow, and Chris Hero.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit TMZ Inside the Ring with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
