Paul Walter Hauser has caught many by surprise with his devoted pursuit of professional wrestling, making waves not only in the ring but also among his colleagues. Currently holding the PROGRESS Proteus Championship, Hauser has taken part in numerous wrestling matches over recent years. His dedication to this physically demanding sport has sparked varied responses within his circle of actors and friends.
In a recent interview with The Stunner, Hauser shared insights about how some in the acting community struggle to understand his commitment, while others have grown interested and supportive.
“My buddy David Oyelowo, who played MLK in that movie Selma, he texted me and was like, ‘Are you having a midlife crisis? Do we need to do an intervention on you?’ But I got other buddies, I just shot this movie in Canada with my buddy Chris Mintz-Plasse from SuperBad and Role Models. And he came to one of my matches and he loved it. Some of these buddies of mine, they’re getting bit by the bug. Very much so. And like, lapsed fans are coming back and going, ‘Hey, I watched that. I went to an indie show last weekend,’ or ‘I threw this on. It’s cool,’”
Hauser explained, reflecting on the mixed yet growing enthusiasm among his peers. – The Stunner with a h/t to 411mania.com
Early Aspirations and Surpassing Expectations
Hauser’s passion for wrestling dates back to his early teens. He revealed that at the age of 13, he already envisioned combining his acting career with wrestling.
“Well, when I was like 13 I knew I was doing this. I just didn’t know when or how, but I knew like — part of wanting to get famous as an actor was just so that I could get a wrestling match. It was always in my itinerary, in my dreams, my plan, my vision board,”
he said. What began as a vague lifetime goal evolved into an intense pursuit, far beyond his original expectations.
Instead of just a few matches, Hauser has participated in around 25 bouts in just two years, facing off against seasoned wrestlers such as Matt Cardona, Joey Janella, and Mad Dog Connelly. He described the experience as a rewarding and enjoyable journey, emphasizing his commitment to respecting fans and delivering quality performances.
“It’s been a really fun journey, and I’m trying to keep it at a certain level to make sure the fans feel respected and got their money’s worth. And I’m also, you know, chasing a childhood dream.”
– The Stunner with a h/t to 411mania.com
The Growing Influence of Hauser’s Wrestling Path
Paul Walter Hauser’s wrestling journey highlights an uncommon blend of artistic ambition and athletic determination. While some of his acting friends remain skeptical, others have embraced the spectacle, reigniting their own interest in wrestling. His efforts have brought more attention to the indie wrestling scene, encouraging lapsed fans to reconnect.
As Hauser continues to balance his acting and wrestling careers, his example may inspire other performers to explore unconventional passions, blending entertainment fields in fresh ways. The PROGRESS Proteus Championship signals that Hauser’s wrestling path is far from a hobby; it’s a significant part of his professional identity that enhances his connection with fans and peers alike.
