Nick Wayne Bio
Early Life and Background
Nicholas Wayne Finley, known in the wrestling world as Nick Wayne, was born on July 10, 2005, in Seattle, Washington. He hails from a family deeply rooted in professional wrestling; his father, Buddy Wayne, was a wrestler and trainer, and his grandfather, Moondog Ed Moretti, also had a notable career in the industry. Growing up in this environment, Wayne was exposed to wrestling from a young age, which laid the foundation for his future career.
Wayne began training under his father’s guidance, which helped him develop his skills early on. He made his professional debut at the age of 12, showcasing his talent and passion for the sport. His upbringing in a wrestling family not only influenced his career choice but also instilled in him a strong work ethic and dedication to the craft.
Path to All Elite Wrestling
Wayne’s journey to the professional wrestling spotlight began with his debut in Invasion Championship Wrestling on April 27, 2018. Over the next few years, he honed his skills in various independent promotions, gaining valuable experience and recognition. His hard work paid off when he was offered a contract with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) by his friend Darby Allin during DEFY Wrestling’s 5th Anniversary event in February 2022.
After turning 18, Wayne made his AEW debut on July 12, 2023, where he faced Swerve Strickland. His entrance into AEW marked a significant milestone in his career, as he began to compete on a larger stage and gain exposure to a wider audience. His early achievements in AEW set the stage for a promising future in professional wrestling.
Nick Wayne Career
Early Career (2018–2023)
During his early career, Wayne quickly made a name for himself in the independent wrestling scene. He participated in various promotions, including DEFY Wrestling, where he captured the DEFY World Championship in April 2023. His reign included successful title defenses, showcasing his ability to compete at a high level. Wayne’s performances garnered attention, leading to opportunities in larger promotions.
In July 2022, Wayne participated in a Four Corners match at Ric Flair’s Last Match event, where he faced notable competitors like Jonathan Gresham and Konosuke Takeshita. Although he did not win, the match helped solidify his reputation as a rising star in the wrestling community.
All Elite Wrestling / Ring of Honor Breakthrough (2023–Present)
Wayne’s AEW journey began with his debut match against Swerve Strickland, where he showcased his skills despite the loss. His character quickly evolved, and by October 2023, he turned heel during a match involving Christian Cage, aligning himself with Cage’s stable, The Patriarchy. This shift in character added depth to his persona and increased his visibility within the promotion.
On July 21, 2024, Wayne achieved a significant milestone by winning the AEW World Trios Championship alongside his stablemates, making him the youngest champion in AEW history at just 19 years old. This victory highlighted his talent and potential as a future star in professional wrestling. However, their reign ended shortly after, showcasing the competitive nature of the promotion.
In April 2025, Wayne captured the ROH World Television Championship, further establishing himself as a formidable competitor. This victory made him the youngest titleholder in ROH history, marking a significant achievement in his burgeoning career. His performances in both AEW and Ring of Honor have positioned him as one of the most promising talents in the industry.
Nick Wayne’s Style and Strengths
Wayne is known for his high-flying style and agility, which allows him to execute impressive maneuvers in the ring. His training under his father has equipped him with a strong foundation in wrestling techniques, making him a versatile performer. Wayne’s ability to connect with the audience, combined with his in-ring skills, has contributed to his growing popularity.
Notable Achievements and Milestones
Wayne’s career is marked by several notable achievements, including his reigns as AEW World Trios Champion and ROH World Television Champion. His status as the youngest champion in both promotions underscores his exceptional talent and potential for future success in professional wrestling.
Nick Wayne Career Wins
Nick Wayne has quickly amassed a reputation for his skill and determination in the ring. His notable victories include championships in both AEW and Ring of Honor, showcasing his ability to compete at the highest levels of professional wrestling.
Current AEW Series Highlights
As of 2025, Wayne holds the ROH World Television Championship, marking a significant achievement in his career. His first title win in a major promotion and subsequent successful defenses have solidified his status as a rising star. His performances in AEW continue to garner attention, and he remains a key figure in the promotion’s future.
Previous ROH Series Achievements
In addition to his current reign, Wayne’s early achievements in ROH include competitive matches that have showcased his talent and potential. His participation in significant events and storylines has positioned him as a prominent figure in the promotion.
Nick Wayne Family
Family Background and Wrestling Lineage
Nick Wayne comes from a rich wrestling lineage, being the son of Buddy Wayne and Shayna Wayne. His grandfather, Moondog Ed Moretti, also had a notable career in wrestling, making Wayne a third-generation wrestler. This family background has played a crucial role in shaping his career and passion for the sport.
Personal Life
Wayne’s personal life is closely tied to his wrestling career, with his parents being significant influences in his journey. His father, Buddy Wayne, passed away in 2017, which adds a layer of motivation for Wayne as he continues to honor his family’s legacy in the wrestling world.
2025 Season Performance
In 2025, Nick Wayne’s season has been marked by significant achievements, including his reign as the ROH World Television Champion. His performances have been characterized by high-energy matches and compelling storylines, contributing to his growing popularity in AEW and ROH. As he navigates the competitive landscape of professional wrestling, Wayne’s future looks bright, with fans eagerly anticipating his next moves in the ring.
