In an interview with ABC 2 News in Baltimore to promote this weekend’s Maryland Championship Wrestling events, WWE Hall of Famer Ron Simmons commented on becoming the first black World Heavyweight Champion, WCW firing Bill Watts, working Maryland Championship Wrestling events.
Highlights of the interview are below:
On defeating Vader in WCW to become the first Black World Champion: “That feeling on that night was so special and the way the fans celebrated with me is something that I will always remember. Being able to share that historic moment with the fans that supported me through everything meant more than you’ll ever know.”
On WCW firing Bill Watts for perceived racist comments: “Bill Watts did not look at a wrestler’s color, but rather their pedigree and their ability. He saw something special in me and gave me a historic opportunity.”
On appearing for Maryland Championship Wrestling: “I come to events like MCW and see the young guys looking at me like I looked at the old guys when I was first breaking into the business. I remember how much it meant to me to learn from them and I want to try and do the same for the next generation.”
The interview is available in full at this link.
