Matrick Belton, a former South Carolina wide receiver, has reinvented himself as Trick Williams, a rising star in WWE. Now prominently featured on WWE television, Williams has captured the attention of wrestling fans with his signature chant, “Whoop that Trick!” Since adopting this new identity, he has drawn considerable support both from wrestling followers and those familiar with his football background.
Williams recently appeared on ESPN’s First Take, where he discussed the challenges of shifting from college football to professional wrestling, explaining the physical and mental toughness required for both.
Trick Williams Opens Up About the Physical Demands of WWE Compared to Football
During his conversation with panelist Stephen A. Smith, Williams addressed misconceptions about wrestling’s predetermined outcomes, emphasizing the real pain involved despite scripted results.
I saw some podcasts and everything where people were saying what I’m doing now as a WWE Superstar is cute,
Williams acknowledged.
But you got to understand, Stephen A. Smith, playing football, you know, we went through a lot of hard things. You know, you call the play, and then you’re going across the middle, you’re going to get hit.
And just because things are predetermined doesn’t mean that it don’t hurt,
he said, highlighting the physical challenges that persist in professional wrestling.
And what we do now as WWE Superstars, some things are predetermined.
Williams further drew parallels to NFL strategies when addressing Smith, referencing famed quarterback Tom Brady:
But, hey, if you got to sit in that pocket and throw that Cover Two post across the middle?
he said.
You’re about to get hit. Just because you drew the play and knew what was going to happen doesn’t mean that it doesn’t hurt. You know what I mean?
And that’s what we do now,
Williams continued.
Hey, we draw the play and get the job done. At the end of the day, you gotta get the job done. And you got to do it with the bright lights on.
Williams’ Athletic Roots and Impact on the Wrestling Stage
Belton’s football journey began at Hampton University, where he played six games for the Pirates before transferring to the University of South Carolina. Although he sat out the 2014 season due to transfer rules, he contributed as a walk-on wide receiver for the Gamecocks from 2015 onward. In his collegiate career, he appeared in every game in 2015, recording 11 receptions for 121 yards, and played mostly on special teams during his fifth-year senior season. He also earned a spot on the SEC Fall Academic Honor Roll in 2016.
Following his football tenure, Williams shifted entirely toward professional wrestling, quickly making a name for himself. He earned acclaim by winning the TNA World Championship and secured multiple appearances on WWE’s NXT program. Late last year, he made a significant leap onto WWE’s main roster, a milestone signaling his arrival at the sport’s highest level.
Now competing regularly on WWE’s SmackDown, which broadcasts Friday nights on the USA Network, Williams continues to leverage his athletic skills honed on the football field. His rise within one of America’s premier wrestling promotions showcases his adaptability and determination to thrive in a demanding new arena.
What Williams’ Transition Means for Wrestling and Sports Fans
Williams’ story illustrates the difficulties involved in moving from a career in college football to professional wrestling, highlighting the physical risks and mental preparation both demand. His willingness to openly discuss these challenges offers insight into the realities of WWE competition, pushing back against common misconceptions about the sport.
As Williams grows in prominence within WWE, his background and candidness may inspire other athletes contemplating similar transitions and expand wrestling’s appeal to football fans. With continued appearances on SmackDown and possible future opportunities in major WWE events, Trick Williams remains a figure to watch in the evolving sports entertainment landscape.
WWE wrestler @_trickwilliams talks about the transition from college football to professional wrestling ✍️ pic.twitter.com/aaAmjSG2hA
— First Take (@FirstTake) February 23, 2026
