Nigeria PRO Wrestler Apollo Crews: My life-changing experience with WWE

• Published date: 15 January 2023
• Publication title: Nigeria - The Nation

Nigerian-born American professional wrestler, Sesugh Uhaa, under the ring name, Apollo Crews was part of the World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), officials who came to Nigeria late last year to launch a talent search for Africa's next WWE superstar.

The multi-day tryout event will be hosted in February 2023 in Lagos, Nigeria where a select number of tryout participants will then be awarded an all-expenses-paid experience to continue their tryout journey alongside current and prospective WWE superstars ahead of WrestleMania 39 in Los Angeles in April 2023. A full-time WWE developmental contract may also be offered to the top-performing participants who will then begin their new careers at the world-class WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. In this interview with Taofeek Babalola, Apollo Crews revealed that the programme is more than finding African Superstars it gives the opportunity to people to tell their stories as well.

How does it feel like to be part of the team that moves WWE to Nigeria?

I feel like, it is a huge honor for me because this is the first time it's happening. And for me to be able to be part of this and make the announcement it's a great honour and it's a pleasure as well. I feel very blessed. I have root here in Nigeria and I was able to represent a wonderful country on TV it's nice that we have the opportunity to bring another or maybe multiple or more African Superstars into the WWE and show the world what we already know.

What does it say about the WWE's plans for Nigerians?

I think it's endless. This is just the first, the first of many to come. It's something that is amazing because we are always searching for talent. WWE is always looking for the next talent, always looking for the new talent and I know we can find a lot here. They just have to be brought into the mainstream and that's why WWE is providing opportunities not just for Africans but for everybody. You know I have the opportunity to take my talent up to the global level. WWE is a global platform; it is a global brand, and it's all over the world, so it's a huge opportunity. Again, I'm glad to be able to come here and make this announcement and be part of it and then represent the country and the nation of Africa.

What is the prospect for the athletes from this part of the world in WrestleMania 39?

The prospect is great and I think it is an amazing opportunity for the athletes. WWE provides an opportunity for athletes and other individuals who may not have had a...