The motto "bet on yourself" has become increasingly prevalent in professional wrestling, primarily when discussing the departure of top-tier talent from the industry's leading organization - World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE).
Despite WWE's long-standing reputation as the pinnacle platform for enhancing one's wrestling career, opportunities for growth and progression are only sometimes guaranteed. Consequently, many performers have ventured into alternative paths, exploring different avenues to revitalize their careers and redefine their professional identities.
One such transformation that particularly stands out is that of Drew McIntyre, as highlighted by WWE Hall of Famer Mick Foley. According to Foley, McIntyre has demonstrated a commendable level of resilience, grit, and perseverance, genuinely embodying the notion of betting on oneself.
Foley expressed his thoughts during a recent episode of "Foley is Pod," where he said, "I admire the people in the business today who are willing to take that chance [of betting on themselves]. So, Drew McIntyre is the best example of somebody who reinvented himself."
McIntyre's Inspiring Reinvention Journey
McIntyre's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Returning to "SmackDown" in 2009, McIntyre was initially earmarked as one of WWE's upcoming superstars. However, unforeseen shifts in his booking led him to join a lower-tier stable, the Three Man Band (3MB), culminating in his release from WWE in 2014.
Undeterred by this setback, McIntyre ventured into the independent wrestling circuit, broadening his exposure and further honing his craft. His efforts eventually led him to sign with Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), where he clinched his inaugural premier singles title, the TNA World Heavyweight Championship.
McIntyre's triumphant return to WWE in 2017 marked a spectacular upward trajectory, featuring him claiming the prestigious WWE Championship twice. Foley also mentioned that Cody Rhodes deserves to be mentioned alongside McIntyre as another great case of a successful reinvention.
After bidding farewell to his Stardust persona, Rhodes transformed into "The American Nightmare," creating waves in the industry before returning to WWE. These examples are a powerful testament to the wrestlers' unwavering dedication and resilience in adversity, ultimately manifesting in their successful reinventions.