As the wrestling world processes R-Truth’s shocking WWE departure after 17 years, touching tributes continue pouring in from across the industry. Among the countless stories celebrating Ron Killings’ impact, one particularly powerful account has captured fans’ attention – revealing how Truth’s mentorship completely altered another wrestler’s career trajectory during a single conversation at FCW in 2010.
The FCW Moment That Changed Everything
Current Latino World Order member Joaquin Wilde recently opened up on social media about a pivotal encounter with R-Truth during his 2010 FCW tryout. The story begins with Truth addressing a group of aspiring wrestlers, sharing his unique journey from music into professional wrestling.
During the session, an anonymous hopeful raised their hand with a question that would spark a career-defining moment. They asked what advice Truth had for wrestlers who didn’t come from alternative backgrounds – those who simply loved wrestling and wanted to be wrestlers.
“Truth says, ‘then thats your story. But its not that interesting. Because everyone has that story.'”
A Reality Check That Sparked Soul-Searching
Wilde admits Truth’s blunt response hit like a lightning bolt. The future WWE superstar realized he might be approaching his career one-dimensionally, prompting deep self-reflection about his passions beyond the squared circle.
That moment of uncomfortable truth forced Wilde to examine what else drove him creatively. He discovered a genuine love for music that had been waiting in the wings, ready to become his differentiating factor in an overcrowded wrestling landscape.
From Wrestling Fan to Multi-Dimensional Performer
The conversation triggered Wilde’s journey into DJing and music production, skills that would become integral to his wrestling persona. His “DJZ” character emerged directly from this newfound musical identity, creating opportunities that pure wrestling ability alone might never have generated.
Wilde credits Truth with launching not just his DJ career, but also his appearances on Sway in the Morning, his Spotify presence as “Wilde We$t,” and an upcoming album featuring remixed Japanese wrestling entrance themes.
The Championship Path Truth Helped Create
While Wilde had already captured multiple championships as Shiima Xion before that FCW tryout, Truth’s advice catalyzed his breakthrough with mainstream wrestling audiences. His TNA Wrestling debut in 2011 as Zema Ion showcased this new multi-dimensional approach.
The DJ-inspired character connected immediately, leading to his 2012 TNA X-Division Championship victory. After evolving into DJZ in 2013, he claimed another X-Division title and later captured TNA Tag Team gold alongside Andrew Everett before WWE came calling in 2019.
Industry Backlash Over Truth’s WWE Exit
Stories like Wilde’s explain why Truth’s departure has generated unprecedented industry backlash. According to Fightful Select, WWE roster members have expressed serious concerns about the decision, calling it “total nonsense” and “ruthless.”
The sentiment among talent reflects a deeper anxiety – if someone like Truth, perceived as a WWE lifer after 17 years of service, can be released, it signals that no one’s position is truly secure. This has reportedly created the largest amount of internal and external criticism WWE has faced regarding a talent decision in years.
A Mentor’s Lasting Legacy
Wilde made sure to personally thank Truth for that life-changing advice, but felt compelled to share the story publicly as wrestling says goodbye to one of its most beloved figures. The tale perfectly encapsulates Truth’s impact beyond entertainment – his ability to guide careers and shape futures through honest, sometimes uncomfortable wisdom.
As more wrestlers continue sharing their R-Truth stories, one thing becomes crystal clear: his departure represents far more than losing a veteran performer. What other career-defining moments and mentorship opportunities might walk out the door with him?
