Former WWE Superstar Enzo Amore recently reignited debate within the wrestling community by criticizing second-generation wrestlers during a candid interview. Taking a strong stance on the perceived advantages these legacy talents enjoy, Amore contrasted his own journey with that of stars born into wrestling families, sparking conversations about meritocracy and legacy in pro wrestling.
Enzo Amore Calls Out Second-Generation Wrestlers
In an interview on Busted Open Radio, Enzo Amore did not hold back his opinion on second-generation wrestlers and their path to prominence. Emphasizing the mentoring he received from the late Dusty Rhodes, Amore highlighted that Rhodes’ background was vastly different.
“Dusty Rhodes was my mentor. He said: ‘live life on the edge of a lightning bolt.’ So, that’s what I have to do, okay?” Amore stated. More pointedly, he added, “Dusty Rhodes had to go back to WWE wearing polka dots, right? But that guy was the son of a plumber, not the son of a wrestler. These wrestlers are legacy media — that’s legacy wrestling — you’re watching people who are born into this s*** that share nothing in common with the people in Madison Square Garden, sitting in the last row.”[1]
Through this, Amore expressed frustration at what he perceives as an uneven playing field, where second-generation wrestlers enter the business with advantages he lacked.
From Underdog to Spotlight: Enzo’s Unique Journey
Enzo, real name Eric Arndt, built his career by resonating with wrestling fans who saw him as an outsider with no family ties to the sport. He proclaimed that his success was born from the fans’ genuine choice rather than industry favoritism.
“The people chose me. They didn’t choose anyone else who was there, and guess what? I was there with all of them!” he recalled.[1]
Amore’s words reflect a narrative of perseverance—a theme many wrestlers who come from non-wrestling families emphasize. He leveraged his skills on the mic and his personality to carve out a niche despite lacking a wrestling pedigree.
Kayfabe and Backstage Realities: The Curtain Call Story
Enzo also referenced a backstage moment that shattered his illusions about the wrestling business—a pivotal part of wrestling storytelling called kayfabe, which involves maintaining the illusion of real rivalries.
He cited the infamous Curtain Call incident, where key wrestlers broke character publicly. “You know what broke kayfabe for me? Being in the Curtain Call, literally witnessing it with my own f**ing eyes,” Amore said. He recalled how his grandfather explained why members of The Kliq* were suddenly friends mid-rivalry in the ring.[1]
This insight reveals the difficulty for a talent like Enzo, who came from outside wrestling traditions, to reconcile fan perception with behind-the-scenes realities.
The Controversial Road and WWE Exit
Enzo Amore’s WWE career was turbulent and ended abruptly in 2018 amid sexual assault allegations that were later dropped. His outspoken personality and behind-the-scenes controversies led to backstage heat and eventually his release from the company.[4][5] Despite these setbacks, Amore has maintained a presence on the independent circuit, attempting to rebuild his wrestling career.
According to a WWE insider close to talent relations, “Enzo was a naturally charismatic guy who resonated with fans, but his outspoken nature and off-screen controversies made it challenging for management. His perspective on legacy stars reflects broader frustrations in WWE’s locker room.”[1]
The Broader Conversation: Legacy vs. New Blood
Enzo’s critique taps into an ongoing debate within professional wrestling about the role of legacy stars—wrestlers who come from established wrestling families—and whether they have an unfair advantage over so-called “outsiders.”
While second-generation wrestlers often benefit from early exposure, mentorship, and industry connections, many argue they face additional pressure and expectations.[1] Conversely, wrestlers like Enzo who lack that background often emphasize the difficulty of breaking through without such advantages.
Sources close to WWE talent like Cody Rhodes acknowledge the weight of legacy. “Carrying a famous name is a double-edged sword,” said one confidant. “You get instant attention but also intense scrutiny from fans and critics alike.” This perspective contrasts with Amore’s emphasis on meritocratic success.[1]
Final Thoughts
Enzo Amore’s remarks have sparked fresh reflection on the wrestling industry’s dynamics. His perspective as a once-underdog-turned-star provides a counter-narrative to the prevalent legacy discourse.
As WWE continues to balance booking legacy stars and new talents, voices like Enzo’s highlight the enduring passion and complexity behind wrestling stardom.
This article is based on Enzo Amore’s recent interview on Busted Open Radio and insider accounts within the wrestling world.
