Lio Rush Bio
Early Life and Background
Lionel Gerard Green, better known by his ring name Lio Rush, was born on November 11, 1994, in Lanham, Maryland, USA. Raised in a musical family, both of his parents were gospel singers, which influenced his artistic pursuits. From a young age, Rush aspired to become a professional wrestler, a dream he nurtured since he was five years old. His childhood was not without challenges, as he faced mental health struggles that led to a brief hospital stay during his teenage years.
Path to Professional Wrestling
Rush began his wrestling career in 2014 after training at the MCW Training Center. He debuted under the ring name “LI Green” but later changed it to “Lennon Duffy” after receiving negative feedback from promoters. His early career saw him compete in various independent promotions, where he quickly made a name for himself by winning championships and participating in notable tournaments. His dedication and talent eventually led him to larger promotions, culminating in his signing with WWE in 2017.
Lio Rush Career
Early Career (2014–2017)
Rush’s professional wrestling journey began in the independent circuit, where he formed a tag team named “Sudden Impact” with Patrick Clark. He achieved significant milestones, including winning the Shane Shamrock Memorial Cup XV and the MCW Tag Team Championship. His time in Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW) was marked by his victory in the CZW Wired Championship and the CZW World Heavyweight Championship, showcasing his growing prowess in the ring.
WWE Breakthrough (2017–2020)
Rush signed with WWE in 2017, where he made his debut on NXT. He quickly gained attention for his high-flying style and charisma, becoming the youngest NXT Cruiserweight Champion. His role as the manager of Bobby Lashley further elevated his profile, as he played a key part in Lashley’s success during their partnership. However, Rush’s time in WWE was tumultuous, leading to his release in April 2020 amid budget cuts due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Independent Circuit and AEW Era (2020–Present)
Following his departure from WWE, Rush returned to the independent circuit, competing in various promotions, including Major League Wrestling (MLW) and New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW). He captured the MLW World Middleweight Championship and the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship, solidifying his status as a top competitor. In 2021, Rush made his debut in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and formed a tag team known as CRU with Action Andretti. His return to AEW has seen him continue to evolve as a performer, showcasing his agility and in-ring skills.
Professional Wrestler Style and Strengths
Rush is known for his fast-paced, high-flying wrestling style, earning him nicknames such as the “Man of the Hour” and the “Piece of Gold.” His ability to connect with the audience, both as a wrestler and a manager, has made him a versatile performer in the industry.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Throughout his career, Rush has achieved numerous milestones, including being the youngest NXT Cruiserweight Champion and winning multiple championships across various promotions. His dynamic performances and ability to engage fans have made him a standout figure in professional wrestling.
Lio Rush Career Wins
Lio Rush has accumulated a notable number of wins across various promotions, demonstrating his skill and versatility as a professional wrestler. His championship victories and high-profile matches have solidified his reputation in the wrestling community.
Current AEW Series Highlights
As of 2025, Rush continues to compete in AEW, where he has formed a successful tag team with Action Andretti. His recent performances have included high-stakes matches, showcasing his agility and strategic prowess in the ring. Rush’s ability to adapt and evolve has kept him relevant in the competitive landscape of professional wrestling.
Previous Wrestling Series Achievements
Before joining AEW, Rush had a successful tenure in WWE, where he became the youngest NXT Cruiserweight Champion and made significant contributions as a manager. His time in the independent circuit also saw him capture multiple championships, including the CZW World Heavyweight Championship and the MLW World Middleweight Championship.
Lio Rush Family
Family Background and Wrestling Lineage
Lio Rush resides in Los Angeles, California, with his wife, Sarah Lai Wah, whom he married on December 21, 2018. The couple has three sons, and Rush often shares insights into his family life, highlighting the importance of his loved ones in his journey.
Personal Life
Rush has been open about his struggles with mental health and the impact it has had on his life. He has numerous tattoos, including one that honors his late brother, which reflects his deep connection to family and personal history. Rush’s experiences have shaped his character both in and out of the ring, adding depth to his persona as a professional wrestler.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Lio Rush has continued to make waves in AEW, participating in high-profile matches and showcasing his skills as part of the tag team CRU. His performances have been marked by agility and strategic in-ring tactics, contributing to the team’s success. As the year progresses, Rush aims to solidify his position within AEW and pursue championship opportunities, maintaining his reputation as a top competitor in the wrestling world.
