Joey Ryan: The American Professional Wrestler and Promoter Behind the Controversy
The Rise to Fame: Founding Pro Wrestling Guerrilla and Beyond
Joey Ryan, born Joseph Ryan Meehan, is a renowned American professional wrestler and promoter known for his unorthodox wrestling style and controversial persona. He is the founder of Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG), a Southern California-based promotion that has been a launching pad for many successful careers in the world of professional wrestling.
Early Years and Training
Born on November 7, 1979, Ryan's fascination with professional wrestling began at a young age. Inspired by wrestlers like
Hulk Hogan,
Ricky Steamboat, and the British Bulldogs, he started his professional wrestling training in February 2000 with Jesse Hernandez's Empire Wrestling Federation in San Bernardino, CA.
Career Highlights and Championships
Ryan's wrestling career has been marked by numerous achievements, including holding the PWG World and PWG World Tag Team Championships. He has also made appearances on the independent circuit, wrestling for promotions such as Ring of Honor, Wrestling Society X, Major League Wrestling, and DDT ProWrestling, where he held the Ironman Heavymetalweight Championship a record 43 times. Additionally, he has wrestled for TV series Lucha Underground, Impact Wrestling, and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), where he became NWA World Tag Team Champion with
Karl Anderson.
Controversies and Accusations
In June 2020, during the Speaking Out movement, Ryan was accused by several women of sexual misconduct. As a result, he was released from Impact Wrestling. Ryan has denied the accusations and has filed lawsuits against some of his accusers and Impact Wrestling.
Legacy and Impact
Despite the controversies surrounding his career, Joey Ryan has left an indelible mark on the world of professional wrestling. His innovative and often provocative wrestling style has inspired a generation of wrestlers, and his founding of PWG has paved the way for many aspiring wrestlers to pursue their dreams.
Fun Facts and Trivia
- Joey Ryan's favorite wrestlers growing up were Hulk Hogan, Ricky Steamboat, and the British Bulldogs.
- He was part of a gothic stable early in his career, teaming with fellow trainees Sid Shadow and Stitches.
- Ryan was known for using his penis as part of his moves, most notably, the YouPornPlex.
Awards and Honors
- PWG World Champion
- PWG World Tag Team Champion
- Ironman Heavymetalweight Champion (43 times)
- NWA World Tag Team Champion (with Karl Anderson)
FAQ
What is Joey Ryans wrestling style?
Joey Ryan is known for his comedy-oriented wrestling style, which often incorporates humor and satire into his matches and promos.
What promotions has Joey Ryan wrestled for?
Joey Ryan has wrestled for various promotions, including WWE, Impact Wrestling, and Pro Wrestling Guerrilla, where he was a regular competitor.
Is Joey Ryan a singles wrestler or a tag team specialist?
Joey Ryan has had success in both singles and tag team competition, having held multiple championships in both formats, including the PWG World Tag Team Championship.
What is Joey Ryans most famous wrestling feud?
Joey Ryans most famous wrestling feud was with CM Punk in PWG, which was highly acclaimed by fans and critics alike for its humorous and entertaining matches.
Has Joey Ryan appeared in non-wrestling media?
Yes, Joey Ryan has made appearances in non-wrestling media, including television shows and video games, such as the wrestling video game series WWE 2K.
