Sunshine State Slams: Unveiling the Wrestlers Who Call Florida Home
Florida: the land of sunshine, beaches, and...wrestlers? That's right, the Sunshine State is a hotbed for professional grapplers. But why? Is it the year-round tans that make them look extra intimidating? Maybe they just really like theme parks (who wouldn't?). Whatever the reason, Florida is home to a whole ring full of wrestling royalty.
So, Who's Throwing Down in the Sunshine State?
There's a whole body slam of famous wrestlers who've set up shop in Florida. John Cena (****), the man with fifteen world championships under his belt, is a resident. His arch-rival, Randy Orton (the Viper!), might not be a Floridian, but trust us, you wouldn't be surprised to see him soaking up some rays there in the off-season.
Then there's the legendary Hulk Hogan, a man practically synonymous with wrestling itself. While Hulkamania might have run wild all over the world, he eventually settled down in Florida - though with a house that impressive, maybe he just built his own wrestling ring in the backyard.
But it's not just the old guard! Up-and-coming stars like MJF (don't let the initials fool you, this guy's a villain through and through) and the powerhouse Bianca Belair are also said to call Florida home. Seems like the next generation of body slams and leg drops is being perfected under the Florida sunshine.
The Sunshine State Slam Down: Why So Many Wrestlers in Florida?
Here's the thing: there are a few theories about why Florida is a wrestler's paradise.
Tax Haven: Florida has no state income tax. That's a lot of extra cash for those flying clotheslines and top rope maneuvers!
NXT Level Training: The WWE Performance Center, a training ground for future superstars, is located in Orlando. So, it makes sense that a lot of wrestlers would stay put after graduating to the big leagues.
Travel Hub: Florida's airports make it easy for wrestlers to jet around the country (and sometimes the world) for matches.
Theme Parks Galore: Okay, this one might not be a deciding factor, but come on, who wouldn't want to unwind at Disney World after a brutal match?
So You Want to See a Wrestler in the Wild?
Look, we can't guarantee you'll bump into The Rock doing his eyebrow raise at the grocery store. Wrestlers are people too, and they deserve their privacy.
But, if you're in Florida and have your wrestling radar on high alert, here are your best bets:
Attend a WWE event: With so many wrestlers in Florida, chances are there will be a live show happening soon.
Check out NXT: Catch the future stars of professional wrestling at the WWE Performance Center.
Hit the Gym: You never know, you might just end up lifting weights next to the next Roman Reigns. (Though, maybe don't challenge them to a pull-up contest.)
Sunshine State Slam FAQs
How to move to Florida and become a wrestler?
Focus on intense training and building your skills before relocating. Florida might have sunshine, but the path to wrestling stardom is tough everywhere.
How to avoid accidentally clotheslining someone in a Florida grocery store?
Maybe dial back the intensity on your morning coffee. Unless, of course, you're trying out for a WWE tryout (see above).
How to tell the difference between a wrestler and a regular person at the beach?
Look for impressive tan lines and suspiciously ripped physiques. Also, keep an ear out for any dramatic pronouncements about destiny.
How to ask a wrestler for a selfie (politely)?
Be respectful of their space and time. If they're training or relaxing, maybe wait for a better opportunity.
How to prepare for the inevitable zombie apocalypse led by a rogue band of wrestlers?
Honestly, we're not sure. Maybe stock up on sunscreen?