Javier Bernal Talks Learnings From WWE Stint, Wrestlers Who Shaped His Style & More

Randy Beidelschies (FKA Javier Bernal) recently reflected on his WWE stint, creative freedom outside WWE, wrestlers who shaped his style, and what he would like to be remembered for during a conversation with David Joseph of PWMania.com.

Javier Bernal joined World Wrestling Entertainment in 2021. After making an impact on NXT Level Up, he became a staple of NXT in 2022 and continued to remain part of the promotion despite injuries until this year. He was released from the company in May 2025.

Below are the highlights:

Javier Bernal on the lessons he learnt from his WWE stint

“Sometimes it doesn’t matter how hard you work—it’s time, place, and opportunity. I was there for four years. You don’t last four years if you’re not good. John Cena once told me I had the match of the night. Booker T always had my back. When guys like that vouch for you, but things still don’t happen, you learn—sometimes it’s just not your time yet. It’s not a no. It’s a ‘not right now.’”

On the difference between creative freedom in WWE and the independent circuit

“It’s collaborative. WWE is structured—and that’s not a bad thing—but on the indies, you can explore who you really are. I’ve had WWE talent reach out telling me I’m killing it now. I’m a free agent. WWE, AEW, TNA, MLW, NJPW—anyone can pick me up. Now’s a good time.”

Javier Bernal on wrestlers who influenced and shaped his style

“Chris Jericho and Shawn Michaels were my biggest influences. The Attitude Era is my comfort zone. CM Punk is a huge influence for serious promos—straight edge, punk aesthetic, all that resonates with me. I had chances to talk with Punk backstage, and those conversations meant a lot. Triple H, Jeff Hardy—so many influences shaped me.”

On how he wants to be remembered

“Someone who didn’t give up. Someone who kept climbing the mountain no matter how many times he was pushed off. Personally—a good husband, a good son, someone who stood up for the right things and stayed selfless in a selfish business.”

Check out Javier Bernal’s comments below:

Elsewhere in the interview, Bernal talked about mental health, the toll that pro wrestling takes on one’s body, and more. You can check those comments RIGHT HERE.