Rusev Reveals Positive Wisdom He Learned From ‘Big Show’ Paul Wight, Thinks Wrestling Is Losing Hierarchy

During a recent interview with Shakiel Mahjouri for SHAK Wrestling, WWE Superstar Rusev spoke about wanting to be a positive presence to the younger generation in the locker room. He also shared a positive piece of wisdom he learned from former WWE Superstar, Big Show (aka Paul Wight).

Additionally, Rusev explained his thoughts on wrestling losing its respect for hierarchy. Below are some highlights:

Rusev on Important Wisdom He Learned From “Big Show” Paul Wight

“I kind of give that as an example of Big Show. Big Show said, ‘If you show up to work every day, like it’s your first day at work, you know, how do you show up first day at work? You always dress nice, you’re always being polite, you’re always respectful, you’re always on time, you’re always courteous. If you approached every day like this, then you’re going to have a long and successful career in the WWE. But once you start cutting corners, once you start thinking you’re better than that, or you can do the load management, which is a new word that I kind of associate with NBA, which is kind of taking it easy type of deal, then it’s just not going to — this is not for you.'”

On How Paul Wight Was a Great Locker Room Leader and Mentor, How Wrestling Is Losing Hierarchy

“I think Big Show is a great leader overall, like you know he’s very, but all these guys from old school, man. You know, they demanded respect because they were treated that way. You know, when they were coming up, they had somebody to be over them and to demand that, and we’re kind of losing that. And I don’t think that’s necessarily good for the business. I think hierarchy is a good thing. I think being respectful is a good thing. Being on time is a good thing, and that’s why wrestling and WWE teaches you good just for the rest of your life. Those are great, responsible things as a human being to have, and it’s up to me now. I have taken that upon me to withhold these standards because you know I’ve traveled the world with John Cena. I fought him all over the world. The man never took a day off. He never took a match off. He was out there performing 30 minutes a night.”

Rusev recently competed last weekend at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event in a Triple Threat Match for the Intercontinental Championship against reigning Champ Dominik Mysterio and Penta. Mysterio won the match to retain his title.

If you use any of the quotes in this article, please credit SHAK Wrestling with a h/t to 411mania.com for the transcription.