Leon Slater has been recognized by Jeff Hardy as the future of professional wrestling, a compliment that Slater finds deeply inspiring. The Hardys have frequently highlighted Slater’s talents in interviews, acknowledging his role as a key figure in TNA’s current landscape. This endorsement has fueled Slater’s determination to elevate his career within the wrestling world.
Lessons from AJ Styles About Staying Authentic
Slater shared insights from advice he received from AJ Styles, focusing on the importance of authenticity both inside and outside the ring. Styles impressed upon him the value of remaining true to himself regardless of success or setbacks. Slater explained,
“One of the biggest things he was preaching to me, outside of the in-ring feedback and stuff about the match, was how important it is to stay true to yourself. I think before AJ came in to do that angle with me, he had heard what I was like from the TNA, from the locker room, you know what I mean? From people he’s close with, whether that’s Frankie Kazarian and Eric Young. I hope it was all good things, you know what I mean? When he was talking to me, he just reminded me how important it is to keep those things that people say about me, all good things as much as I can. You know what I mean? No matter how high I get or no matter how low I get, stay true to who I am, which sounds very cliché, but when it’s coming from AJ Styles, it means a whole lot more.”
Motivation from Jeff Hardy’s Confidence in Him
When told about Jeff Hardy’s remarks calling him the future of wrestling, Slater described his excitement and how much the praise motivates him. He reflected on wanting to prove not only doubters wrong but also to meet the expectations of those who believe in him. Slater stated,
“I go, ‘Jeff Hardy is saying that about me?!’ [laughs] Which is absolutely insane! It really spurs me on because it’s a thing now for me of not only proving maybe some people that didn’t think I could make it to where I am and don’t think I can make it past where I am, it’s not only proving them wrong, but it’s proving myself and the people that do believe in me right. So it’s proving a Jeff Hardy right, an AJ Styles right, a Matt Hardy right, a Tommy Dreamer right. You know what I mean? So it’s real good motivation for me. And it’s obviously super cool that Jeff thinks of me that highly.”
Slater’s Rising Influence in TNA
As the current TNA X-Division Champion, Leon Slater has become a prominent figure in the promotion, with veterans like the Hardys and Tommy Dreamer recognizing his potential. His journey highlights the impact of mentorship and positive reinforcement from established wrestlers such as AJ Styles, Frankie Kazarian, and Eric Young within the TNA locker room environment. This support system strengthens Slater’s resolve to solidify his place in professional wrestling’s future.
The Path Ahead for Leon Slater
With backing from influential wrestlers and clear advice emphasizing authenticity, Slater appears poised for continued growth. The encouragement from veterans and his current championship status demonstrate that he is not only a rising star but also a committed athlete determined to rise through the ranks. How he harnesses this momentum in the coming months will likely shape his legacy within TNA and the broader wrestling industry.
