Don Callis expressed frustration after being named Best Non-Wrestler in the 2025 Wrestling Observer Newsletter Awards, insisting that the title undermines his identity as a wrestler. Speaking on Wrestling Observer Live on the award announcement day, Callis emphasized that he still sees himself as a wrestler despite the label.
Having previously won the same award in 2023, Callis challenged the designation, asserting his active participation in wrestling techniques and moves throughout his career.
Callis Highlights His Wrestling Skills and Legacy
“That’s insulting because I still consider myself a wrestler, as evidenced by anyone who has seen me throw a punch or a chop,”
Callis said. He contrasted his skills with others listed as non-wrestlers, pointing out his ability to perform signature moves:
“If you look at the other slugs that are on that list, not one of them could ever hit a Northern Lights Suplex, do the Ox Baker top-rope knee drop like Don ‘By God’ Callis did back in the day.”
He went on to suggest that his role in the industry transcends that of a non-wrestler, describing himself as an influential figure across multiple areas.
“While the rest of the people on that list are for sure non wrestlers, I am more of just an overall supernova in this industry. I’ve done whatever I’ve wanted in various sectors of it. Maybe we can rename the award the Don Callis Award.”
Comparison with Paul Heyman and Recognition of Career Impact
Paul Heyman, who has secured the Best Non-Wrestler award ten times including in 2024, came in second place this year. Callis acknowledged Heyman’s enduring contributions and their personal connection.
“That’s a great showing for Paul, for sure. I’m happy for him that he was able to accumulate a third of the votes that I was. Paul did a lot for me in my early career and I always have a soft spot for Paul.”
Praise for Konosuke Takeshita and the Don Callis Family
Callis also addressed the recognition of Konosuke Takeshita, a member of the Don Callis family and the 2025 Most Outstanding Wrestler award recipient. He explained his early involvement in Takeshita’s career and the significance of that mentorship.
“The first member of the Don Callis family was Takeshita and he was handpicked by me. A lot of people said who is this kid? Why is Don Callis so interested? Why does Don Callis go to a PWG show and miss something in Tokyo so he can scout him? Because I have an eye for talent.”
“Everything Takeshita has accomplished, IWGP champion, Most Outstanding Wrestler, is because of me and his association with the family.”
Significance and Next Steps in Wrestling Observer Awards
Don Callis’s outspoken stance highlights the blurred lines within wrestling roles and the importance some figures place on their in-ring credentials. His comments may influence how future awards consider criteria for categorizing industry contributors. Meanwhile, the rise of Konosuke Takeshita underlines the growing impact of the Don Callis family within professional wrestling.
Fans and industry insiders will likely watch upcoming events closely to see how Callis continues to shape his legacy and support emerging wrestlers like Takeshita in the evolving wrestling landscape.
