Adam Cole has opened up about being body-shamed online.
Being a celebrity makes you very vulnerable to unwarranted criticism and personal attacks from people. In an industry like pro wrestling where maintaining appearances is a big part of the gig, not being able to look your best for any reason can easily lead to crude reactions.
Cole, who has spent the better part of the last two years on the shelf due to injuries is no stranger to such remarks. He has previously replied to such comments while working hard to get back into ring shape for his return.
The former NXT Champion opened up about dealing with such things during a recent interview with TVInsider. He mentioned that part of being a public figure is expecting to hear judgment from people and recognizing that individuals are allowed to say what they want to say:
“People are allowed to say what they want to say. Does it feel good? Not at all. It definitely doesn’t. At the same time, if I’m someone who wants to be in the entertainment business and in the public eye, I know it’s something I have to expect to deal with in a lot of ways.”
Focused On Making The Best Version Of Me: Adam Cole
The Undisputed Kingdom Leader is not the only AEW star who has had to face such situations. Former Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo also recently discussed standing up to trolls and finding her confidence after previously being phased by such discourse.
Adam Cole explained that everyone in a similar position deals with such comments differently. For him, the best course of action is to ignore all the chatter and focus on his progress:
“I know everyone handles it differently. For me, I’ve gotten to the point where I kind of ignore it or block it out as best I can. I’m focused on making me the best version of me. I try not to get too discouraged with what social media can say.”
The 35-year-old made his AEW return at the WrestleDream PPV on October 12. The company has since announced that he will be making his in-ring return against Buddy Matthews at the Fright Night Dynamite special on October 30.