*** Interview for MINDSPRING.com ***

George - Hogan - Sting - Summers?
Dateline: 02/02/99

When you mention professional wrestling in a crowd you usually get a variety of reactions. Statements such as: "I remember watching Killer Kowalski when I was a kid", "Isn't that fake?", "How can you watch that stuff" and "Is Goldburg still undefeated?" are the types of things you usually hear. While most people have seen a professional wrestling match on television or in person, how many of you have actually had a chance to talk with a wrestler. Recently, I had a chance to speak with CJ Summers of Seaside Heights. CJ wrestles on the independent circuit (comparable to being in baseball's minor leagues). Below you will find our conversation and some pictures of CJ in action in the Independent Wrestling Federation.

How did you get into professional wrestling?
I watched it as I was growing up and decided I wanted to become a pro wrestler. I sent for information on various wrestling schools then decided to attend Iron Mike Sharpe's school.

Did you wrestle in school?
Only in junior high school and as a freshman in high school.

How long have you been a professional wrestler?
This is my 6th year.

Is CJ Summers you real name or your wrestling name?
CJ Summers is my real name.

Is the personality you portray in the ring similar to the real CJ?
I guess it's pretty close to who I am. Just a surf/skate kid facing whatever the world throws at him.

Do you wrestle full time or do you have another profession?
Unfortunately, I can't wrestle full time yet and pay my bills, maybe one day. I have a regular 9 to 5 job at a record store. I also play in a couple of bands.

Why do you wrestle?
I really never thought why. I just know that if I stop I would miss it.

What are your goals as a professional wrestler?
I need to wrestle as much as possible and improve. I would like to advance to one of the big promotions (WWF, WCW or ECW), but isn't that what all wrestlers try for?

What was your biggest thrill as a professional wrestler?
The reaction from the fans as my music plays and I come to the ring.

What was your worst, or most embarrassing moment, as a professional wrestler?
When I started our six years ago, I was on a show in Pennsylvania. Another wrestler and I went to grab a bite to eat at one of the concession stands. When we came back to the dressing room we were stopped by the security guard. We explained we were with the show, but he didn't believe me and laughed. It was probably because I was 40 pounds lighter than I am now.

What do you like to do away from the ring?
Anything involving music, skating or being with friends.

Thanks for your time CJ.