WWE Hall of Famer D-Von Dudley recently discussed the story behind his famous “Testify” catchphrase, highlighting the influence of Paul Heyman and his own religious upbringing. The phrase was crafted during his time in WWE and has become a defining aspect of his Reverend D-Von character.
D-Von explained that Paul Heyman recognized his background as a preacher’s son and merged that with cultural references from films and personalities to create something unique.
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Testify actually came from Paul Heyman,
”
he said.
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Paul knew my background of being a preacher’s kid. He took my character from Pulp Fiction, Samuel L. Jackson, and Mr. T… he combined those two together, and that’s when he said, ‘Let’s make your tagline ‘Testify,’ because it coexists with your background and your beliefs in God.’
”
D-Von’s Strong Religious Influences
Raised by parents deeply involved in the church, D-Von shared how faith shaped both his personal life and wrestling career.
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My faith in God is strong. Both of my parents are reverends,
”
he stated.
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My father was a reverend before he passed away, he became a bishop. My mother got ordained in 1987 and became a reverend… she’s Dr. Reverend Renee Washington Hughes Gardner.
”
His family’s spiritual leadership provided him with guidance and grounding throughout his career. D-Von reflected on conversations with his father regarding his wrestling persona, saying,
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I remember when I told my father about the gimmick, he said, ‘You know what? Let me tell you something, son, don’t listen to anybody. You go do what you’re doing, but when you’re done hooping and hollering in that ring, bring it to where it really counts, and that’s in the pulpit.’
”
Balancing Faith with Wrestling Performance
While portraying the Reverend D-Von character and performing alongside the Dudley Boyz—one of wrestling’s most successful tag teams—D-Von acknowledged wrestling sometimes pushed boundaries that challenged his beliefs. He mentioned struggling with the edgier elements of their act, including the popular line:
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Thou shalt not f** with the Dudleys.
”
Despite any conflict, his faith remained a core part of his identity, influencing his approach both inside and outside the ring.
Continuing Spiritual and Professional Legacy
Although his on-screen persona adopted a televangelist style, D-Von did not become an ordained reverend until years after his wrestling career was well underway.
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I hope I made [my father] proud,
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he said.
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Because again, I go around speaking the Word of God.
”
Today, D-Von applies his spiritual values through motivational speaking, community work, and mentoring aspiring wrestlers at his wrestling school, blending his life experiences into teaching and leadership. His journey illustrates the meaningful connection between his faith and his role in wrestling history.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Paul Heyman a millionaire?
A. Paul Heyman, a famous figure in professional wrestling, has a net worth of $10 million. He was born on September 11, 1965, in The Bronx, New York.
Q. How rich is Paul Heyman?
A. Paul Heyman is estimated to have a net worth of $10 million because of his successful career in professional wrestling.
His income comes mainly from his work with WWE. He also earns from other major wrestling organizations and profitable endorsement deals.
