3 Key Points
- Scotty 2 Hotty’s influence on young wrestling talent, including Pete Dunne.
- The distinction between seminars and coaching in major wrestling promotions.
- Garland’s surprise at the underutilization of available wrestling seminars.
Scotty 2 Hotty’s Impactful Wrestling Seminars
Known in the wrestling world as Scotty 2 Hotty, Scott Garland has remained a vital figure in the industry, not just for his memorable in-ring performances, but also for nurturing the next wave of talent. With beginnings in the ring at a tender age of 15, Garland has since shifted part of his focus to guiding youthful aspirants, some as young as 17, in the fine art of professional wrestling.
Pete Dunne’s Early Beginnings
During an enlightening session on “AEW Unrestricted,” Garland recounted an anecdote involving former WWE NXT UK Champion Pete Dunne, who attended Garland’s very first seminar as a pre-teen. “I had Pete Dunne come to a seminar, the very first seminar I ever taught in Birmingham, England, Pete Dunne came at 12 years old,” shared Garland. This early exposure to the industry and Garland’s teachings had a lasting impact on Dunne, who later relayed to Garland how those early lessons proved pivotal in his own wrestling journey.
The Seminar Experience
Garland delineated the contrast between conducting seminars and providing coaching within established companies such as AEW and WWE. Seminars, as per Garland, cater to individuals aiming to catch the eye of the big leagues, offering insights into transforming wrestling from a passion to a profession. Yet, there’s a sense of perplexity for Garland when he notices the scant attendance of talents at these informative sessions.
The Wrestlers’ Resource
“It’s baffling to me the number of talent on the shows that don’t come to the seminars two hours before the show starts,” Garland expressed, emphasizing the valuable opportunity these seminars represent for up-and-coming wrestlers. Although there are exceptions, Garland sees it more often than not that the newer talents, those just commencing to grapple with the basics, are the ones missing out on these enriching experiences.
Still in the Ring
Scott Garland’s presence in professional wrestling continues beyond the seminars and training sessions. As a testament to his enduring passion for the squared circle, Garland, also a former WWE Light Heavyweight Champion, made an appearance at a recent AEW taping, proving that his wrestling legacy lives on both in and out of the ring.
