WWE Superstar Kit Wilson recently spoke on Insight With Chris Van Vliet about the serious neck injury sustained by his Pretty Deadly tag team partner, Elton Prince. The injury, which occurred earlier this month, required Elton Prince to undergo neck fusion surgery at the age of 28. This procedure marked a significant and worrying turn in his wrestling career due to the severity of the injury.
Incident Leading to the Neck Injury Explained
Wilson described the moment Elton Prince was hurt during a match, revealing it resulted from an accident involving a reverse DDT move.
“He took a reverse DDT, and I think I was in it as well. I think it was maybe a reverse DDT and a flatliner. I think he just, it was obviously an accident. Things happen.”
Wilson explained that Prince landed incorrectly and immediately felt a shock, followed by numbness, signaling how serious the injury was. He shared how watching the footage back was difficult because Prince’s fingers curled up, a visible sign of the injury.
The incident worsened as Prince then suffered a second injury that caused significant bleeding. Wilson recounted,
“He got injured. He got hurt. It was a reverse DDT, and then when he’s trying to figure out in the ring what’s going on, he took that, he took another thing, which cut him open. So he’s bleeding a fair amount.”
Initially, everyone including Wilson underestimated the gravity of the situation, focusing on the amount of blood rather than the unseen damage.
Wilson vividly remembered trying to assess and manage the situation ringside, urging Prince to get down to avoid further injury. The chaotic scene ended with Wilson taking over the match as Prince was rushed for medical attention.
“I remember the doctors were with him, and I think I was in there for maybe like a minute and a half or more, kind of just trying to survive.”
He also described the challenging days that followed as they learned more about the severity of the injury and Prince’s emotional struggle.
Wilson concluded this part with a heartfelt message:
“It was just so horrible to see him go through it, especially because I love him so much. Elton, I love you.”
Evolution of Kit Wilson’s Solo Career after Injury
Wilson reflected on how WWE adjusted his role following Elton Prince’s injury. At first, the shift to singles competition was uncertain. He said,
“I don’t know if it was so definite, but again, it was just trying to figure out what we had, or what was there.”
With guidance from WWE producers including Road Dogg and others backstage, a new direction began to take shape as Wilson’s singles act started gaining traction.
Wilson emphasized that the process was gradual and collaborative.
“I think slowly it went from okay, we’ll try something to okay, this could be something to things clicking. And with the help of a lot of the producers, Road Dogg, a lot of guys giving advice, I think there was some kind of point where people clocked on backstage and okay, we’ll see how this goes. Then this music hit, I think we’ve got something.”
This marked a turning point in his WWE career, providing hope and motivation in a difficult phase.
Perspective on Winning, Losing, and Motivation in Wrestling
Wilson discussed his mindset surrounding wins and losses in the sport, highlighting the importance of focusing on key victories.
“Well, look, we’ll win the championship matches. It just doesn’t really matter about the other ones. So we were just focused on the gold. We’re yet to do that on SmackDown, and we will get there.”
He framed setbacks as learning experiences, stressing resilience and continual improvement.
He added,
“You’re always going to lose, you’re always going to fail, and I think you’re a positive, motivational guy; the failures are just lessons for the future.”
Wilson pointed to WWE superstar The Miz as an example of someone who embraces this approach:
“Shout out to maybe The Miz, another guy who proves time after time again, you can take a loss, you can move on. It doesn’t matter; you can make the most of it.”
Wilson expressed confidence that he will capitalize on bigger opportunities as they arise.
The Broader Impact of Elton Prince’s Injury on WWE and Fans
The injury to Elton Prince has deeply affected those within WWE, particularly Kit Wilson, who expressed genuine concern and affection for his tag partner. This incident shines a light on the physical risks inherent to professional wrestling and the emotional toll these injuries take on performers and their colleagues.
Prince’s neck fusion surgery not only sidelines a promising talent but also shifts the dynamics of Pretty Deadly and prompts WWE to explore alternative storylines involving its stars. Fans and the wrestling community will be closely watching Prince’s recovery and the evolving roles of Wilson and other wrestlers as they navigate this challenging period.
As WWE continues its demanding schedule with shows like SmackDown and NXT, the resilience shown by performers in overcoming injuries and setbacks remains crucial. Elton Prince’s journey through this injury and recovery will likely inspire many, and Kit Wilson’s candid reflections highlight both the personal and professional adversities faced in the wrestling world.
