The self-proclaimed “Last Real Man” of wrestling, Silas Young’s career has seen plenty of highs and lows throughout. The 38 year old discusses overcoming his drug addiction, his feud with Jay Lethal earlier this year, and winning the ROH World TV Championship. Here are some of the highlights:
Feuding with Jay Lethal, earlier this year:
"Jay Lethal is the face of the company, and he's a guy who is very well-respected in the wrestling industry. To be able to have a program and 'Last Man Standing' match with him, and to walk away as the winner, that was a huge step for me and my career. It lit a fire under me, and helped propel me along toward the World Television title."
Overcoming drug addiction:
"There are certain situations in life that are character-building, and I feel like that was one of those moments in my life. Sometimes, the battles with yourself are the hardest battles, and that goes for a lot of people. Our own worst enemies are often ourselves, so it takes a lot of mental checking-in-with-yourself–almost giving yourself a daily mental pep talk–because our biggest opponent is our self."
Winning and Elevating the ROH World Television Championship:
“My son, who just turned nine years old, was running around the house with the belt,” said Young. “Then my wife and I celebrated over breakfast.”
"I want to take this title and run with it. It's a hard task to accomplish, but I want to raise the Ring of Honor World Television title and elevate it higher than it's ever been. I also want to live up to it; what the title means, the standards former champions have set, and surpass it. I'm up for the challenge."