# Celebrating the Bonds of Wrestling: A Conversation with Johnny Pierce

Johnny Pierce joins The Rev Dude for a special crossover episode of King Me, Rev’s Hype Podcast and JJ’s Rainbow Rumble — with a special guest appearance by Selena Hekate!

This episode is about much more than professional wrestling. It’s about friendship, community, passion, sacrifice, and the people who make the independent wrestling scene feel like a family.

The Rev Dude sits down with Johnny Pierce for an honest and heartfelt conversation about life in professional wrestling, the relationships built along the way, and why so many people continue pursuing this crazy business even when the financial rewards don't always follow.

## The Heart of Wrestling

The Rev Dude opens the conversation by making one thing very clear: Johnny isn't just someone he covers or interviews — he's someone he genuinely considers a friend.

JJ and I love you. It's not a BS blow and smoke game. We always love seeing your work.

Johnny talks openly about the realities of pursuing wrestling on the independent scene and the sacrifices that come with following your passion.

Every time I go out there, I'm in the red. I have yet to make a profit doing this, but I'm going for broke and we'll see what happens until the wheels fall off.

It's a candid look at why people continue to dedicate their time, money, energy, and heart to wrestling — because sometimes the friendships, memories, experiences, and love of the business mean more than a paycheck.

## More Than Wrestling — It's Family

One of the biggest themes of the conversation is the unique family dynamic found within independent wrestling.

The Rev Dude reflects on how some of the most genuine friendships and connections he's developed have come through the wrestling community.

I've literally found more genuine friendship and actual people who seemingly care about me on the independent wrestling scene than with my own friends or family.

Johnny and Rev also discuss the people behind the scenes who make every wrestling event possible. From wrestlers and referees to photographers, commentators, ring crew, promoters, venue staff, and everyone working behind the curtain, professional wrestling is truly a team effort.

As Johnny points out:

We wouldn't be able to do anything without the ring crew setting it up and the people at the venue.

It's a reminder to fans that the wrestling experience doesn't begin when the opening bell rings — and it doesn't end when the final match is over.

## A Special Appearance by Selena Hekate

The episode also features a special appearance by Selena Hekate, adding another voice and personality to an already memorable conversation.

Selena's appearance helps bring even more of that independent wrestling family atmosphere into the episode, as the conversation moves between wrestling, friendships, experiences, and the people who make the scene so special.

## JJ's Birthday Fantasy Wrestling Event

The conversation eventually takes an incredibly fun turn when The Rev Dude introduces an idea for JJ's upcoming birthday: What if JJ could create her own wrestling event?

With Johnny Pierce and Selena Hekate potentially involved, the discussion turns into a fantasy booking session as they imagine what JJ's dream wrestling show could look like.

If JJ could have a wrestling event for her birthday, what would it be like?

It's a fun look at the creative side of wrestling and exactly the kind of imagination that makes being a wrestling fan so much fun.





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Reviving the Heart of Wrestling with Mike Gerard

Just dropped a powerful episode of the King Me Revs Hype Podcast with Mike Gerard, owner of Atlantic Pro Wrestling.

We went deep on what really matters in this business — storytelling, community, and family.

The Rev Dude shared how attending shows with his daughter JJ has created some of his favorite memories. Mike related immediately, talking about how his own daughter runs the front of the house at APW — handling tickets, greeting fans, and keeping everything moving. “She runs the front of the house. I wouldn’t be able to do this without her,” he said. That family energy is real.

Mike was also refreshingly honest about the need to improve storytelling. “We need to get back to making clear storylines that keep fans talking long after they leave the show.” No excuses, just a clear commitment to giving fans something worth remembering.

He also spoke about working with veterans like John Cena Sr., who’s been helping with creative and bringing that old-school mentality into the mix. Tradition meeting modern independent wrestling — that’s a strong combination.

What stood out most was Mike’s willingness to say the hard thing: “This isn’t going the way I want it to go.” That kind of honesty is rare, and it’s exactly why APW has a real shot at building something special.

This episode is full of passion, real talk, and a clear vision for the future of Atlantic Pro Wrestling.

Go listen to the full conversation on the King Me Revs Hype Podcast. You’re going to feel the heart in this one.