Rick Boogs has revealed that his near-total absence from professional wrestling since his WWE release was entirely deliberate, explaining that he needed to prove he could build something on his own before returning to the business that let him go.
Speaking on Insight with Chris Van Vliet, Boogs addressed why he turned down every independent wrestling offer and convention appearance that came his way following his release.
“That was very intentional. Don’t get it twisted people. I got many things thrown at me, and I was like, no, I don’t want anything. Mainly because I was like, I want to see if I can thrive on my own, which I have. And now it’s like, okay, I’ve maybe that was a bit of pride and ego, but I’ve proved it. And now it’s like, well, you know what, pro wrestling is fun. So if the opportunity is right, absolutely,” Boogs said.
He also explained why even non-wrestling convention appearances were declined.
“There’s Orlando. I’m like, no. If I take the money, then I’m kind of going back into pro wrestling just to take photos,” Boogs said.
On the prospect of eventually returning to the ring, Boogs was warmer than he has been previously, even identifying tag team wrestling as the format that appeals to him most.
“I think so, yeah. I mean, listen, if it’s right. I kind of learned that I like tag team wrestling, man. From my time at the PC and on the shows and all that, like, I can’t do the high-pitched scream anymore,” Boogs said.
He also acknowledged the practical upside of staying away from the ring entirely during his time pursuing American Gladiators, noting that an injury could have derailed his shot at the show entirely.
“If anything would have happened, what if I had a kink in my shoulder? I can’t do the tryout. I can’t do any push ups. I missed the trial for American Gladiators because of that. Or what if I can go but I got a kink in my shoulder and I can only do six push ups instead of 100,” Boogs said.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article, please credit Insight with Chris Van Vliet with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
