This week I had the opportunity to catch up with U.S Indy star brick Armstrong. Brick talked about how he got in to the wrestling biz, and he also commented on backyard wrestling. We discussed a lot of topics, and today you get a chance to learn a little about Chris Johnson AKA American Hero Brick Armstrong.
First off I would like to welcome you to Talk Wrestling Online / Wrestling 101.com
Thanks for having me.
First off I would like you to explain to the readers who you are and how you first got in to professional wrestling and whom you currently work for?
My real name is Chris Johnson but as you already know my friends and enemies call me Brick. As far as getting into the business goes I heard an ad on the radio, I responded and I worked my ass off even though my promoter was the biggest fraud on the planet. My trainer however was pretty damn good. As far as who I work for now we are in the middle of a name change but we are known as AWF in Utah..
I hear its quite hard to make a living on the U.S Indy circuit, what’s it been like financially, and do you have a day time job to supplement your wrestling career?
Yeah it’s sure as hell not easy. I don’t make a whole lot now but I’m in Utah so what can you expect. I’m hoping to be travelling a lot more. I think I may be moving to Michigan where wrestling is a hot topic. Yes I do currently have a day job.
What’s been the highest point so far in your career?
I guess it would have to be when I was in the main event against my old trainer in a no DQ match we took each other to the limit but I came out on top. It was by far the best match of my life.
If there were any low points which would these be?
All the injuries and the wear and tear on my body. It can take a whole lot out of you.
Who has been the biggest inspiration in your career?
Ricky The Dragon Steamboat, the way he carried his persona in and out of the ring and not to mention the fact that he was probably one of the greatest wrestlers ever. As for current wrestlers RVD is by far the greatest.
Have you sustained any serious injuries in your career? And if so what was the injury?
Luckily the worst injury I have had is separated shoulder, which kept me out of wrestling for a good 2 months other than that just a whole lot of concussions.
Could you explain your gimmick and who came up with the idea?
I am a U.S. loving, Hard Hitting, No B.S.ing all around plain old good guy. I can stand toe to toe with the best of them. As for who came up with the idea my second trainer Steve Gatorwolf. It seems everyone thinks I have a great resemblance to Kurt Angle another one of my heroes.
If you could wrestle anyone in the world who would it be and why?
That is a great question, I guess I would have to say either RVD or Angle because they both have so much they could teach me and they could make anyone look good in that ring.
Now the WWF, ECW and WCW are all owned by the same people how does this affect you or any Indy wrestler getting to the top?
It makes it really tough it is like you only have one chance now. I personally think it is a monopoly. Someone needs to step up and take the reigns of a new fed and give other newcomers a chance to shine.
Any thoughts of wrestling in Japan or Europe?
I would love to wrestle in either of those places and I’m sure I will in due time.
Where do you see your self in the next say 2 yrs?
Doing this on a more frequent basis with better paydays. I would love to be apart of the new WCW/ECW and I’m sure if I set my mind to it I will.
Who has been the wrestler you like to wrestle the best and why?
I think it would have to be my friend Troll he is a great wrestler and we just compliment each other in the ring so well. He is willing to take bumps and has great ideas when it comes to making new ones.
Just want to ask you this question, just what are your thoughts on Backyard wrestling?
Honestly, I think it is way too dangerous. Those kids don’t know what they are doing. They need to learn from someone that can teach them. Most of the wrestlers I know frown on them. I’m sure they could be good but they need the right trainer.
Just before I wrap this interview, what would you say to anyone wanting to get in to pro wrestling?
Do a background check on your promoter and or trainer. Ask around to learn new things don’t be afraid to ask questions, those who do, don’t get hurt. Give it your all, don’t do it half assed.
On behalf of all the readers and staff here at Talk Wrestling Online / Wrestling 101 I wish you all the best in your career.
Thank you it has been my pleasure.
I would personally like to thank Chris for taking the time to do this interview. Every wrestler has a great story to tell, and it doesn’t matter if your in the WWF or not, you still have a charisma and a love for wrestling, and Chris proved he has what it takes to become a star, and I would wish him all the luck as he takes his strides to become a major player in the wrestling world.
Aaron Spencer