Amy Hennig:
The face of a new generation

Interview by Joe Timlin

 

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Amy Hennig began her professional wrestling career in March of 2008 at the Harley Race Wrestling Academy in Eldon, Missouri. Through her dedication and strong work ethic, Amy developed a passion for being in the ring, a place where her charisma and athleticism could be fully utilized. Her upbringing consisted of a firm yet humble belief in family and respect. Following in the footsteps of her father, Curt Hennig and her grandfather Larry Hennig, she continues a family legacy, representing three generations of wrestling. Amy has always been an all around athlete, participating in a number of sports throughout her life such as softball, volleyball, tennis, track and field and gymnastics. Her athletic ability combined with her dedication, will ensure her much success in her future.

What was it like for you growing up in a family with a legacy in the wrestling industry?

Growing up in a family with a legacy and name in the wrestling industry was honestly “normal” for the most part. My father really went out of his way of separating his family from his business. I’ve always been extremely proud of my family name; although I’ve never felt it to be necessary to advertise to everyone I meet. There have been plenty of times when people have approached me asking if it’s true that my dad is “Mr.Perfect.” I always smile and humbly answer yes, that is my father. This is usually followed up with them telling stories of matches my dad was in or them asking me a number of questions. I enjoy seeing and hearing about the impact my dad had on so many people, but there are times when fans overstep their boundaries.

Was there that "moment" when you knew that you wanted to become a professional wrestler?

The moment I knew that wrestling was something I wanted to seriously pursue was after having the opportunity to work with Mr. Brad Reighans back in Minnesota. He allowed me to train with some of the guys at his gym, including my brother Joe and Brock Lesnar. It sparked something in me that made me realize that my whole life, the struggles, the sacrifice and the hard work, had ultimately been preparing me for this dream of becoming a professional wrestler.

If you had to pick a favorite match from your dad's career, which one would you choose and why?

I would have to say his match with Bret Hart during Summer Slam 1991. My dad and Mr.Hart displayed exactly what a quality wrestling match should consist of. Giving fans a level of entertainment they had never witnessed before. I’ve studied this match and those like it. I will be lucky someday to be able to come close to emulating these great athletes in the ring.

Do you think there are more obstacles for women to overcome to become a success in the wrestling industry?

Everyone has their own obstacles entering this industry, whether it is personal or business oriented. As far as women having more obstacles then men, I personally don’t find this to be completely true. Women have a few different issues they face and they are not used as much as men, but in reality this is a male dominated business, making more competition for the guys. I’ve been respected by most of the men I’ve trained with and they treat me like one of the guys, which I prefer.

Why did you choose to train at the Harley Race Wrestling Academy?

After working with Mr. Reighans and arriving at the decision that wrestling was for me, I contacted the WWE office. I was fortunate enough to have tryout with them in Louisville, Kentucky. I considered the close relationship Mr. Race has with my grandfather and the fact that WWE considers Mr. Race’s training facility as a quality wrestling school. I have a wonderful opportunity to work with WLW and feel very blessed to be affiliated with the organization.

What has training been like for you?

Working with Harley Race and the wonderful trainers at WLW has been a great experience for me. Derek McQuinn and Jason Dupree are among the greatest people I’ve ever met. The time and energy they dedicate to their students is awesome. I feel confident that the instruction they have provided me will definitely assist me in pursuing a career in professional wrestling.

Accomplishments you are proud of so far?

My proudest accomplishment so far is being mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually strong enough to endure the intensity of this demanding sport. In addition to that, working through some injuries I have sustained while training. I feel very blessed to have my overall health though. I’m so proud that with the countless hours invested by my trainers, I was able to have my debut match only a few months into my training. My knowledge was limited, but I made it through the match. Another huge accomplishment was winning the WLW ladies championship belt on October 24th in Warsaw, Missouri.

That was a pretty emotional time for me.

Is there a part of your dad's persona in you? And if so, what?

I was always daddies little girl growing up and even today I am very much my fathers daughter. People approach me often saying things like, “You look just like your dad, it’s scary.” But beyond looking like him, we are very alike. I inherited his zest for life, his sense of humor, speaking ability, athleticism and quick wit. Individuals I speak with, often after conversation, swear that they were talking to my dad. I’m proud of that; my father is a great man.

Do you have a favorite female wrestler? Why?

My favorite female wrestler would have to be Mae Young. She did a great deal to pave the way for women wrestlers like myself. Though she may not be WWE diva material, she established what it means to be a woman in this business.

What impact would you like to make in the wrestling industry?

I feel the biggest impact I have to offer the wrestling industry is to set myself apart from the rest of the female wrestlers. I want to bring a breath of fresh air that I know the fans want to see. Training at Mr. Race’s academy has taught me the “old school” techniques of wrestling, which I feel has been unfortunately lost throughout the years. I’d like to bring that back, adding a modern flair with my unique persona and energy.