Amanda Carolina Rodriguez is an American female professional wrestler and valet known in-ring by her real name. She is a North Carolina native who has spent much of her time making a name for herself on the east coast wrestling scene.
Amanda has the talent, looks and personality to make a solid foundation in the ring and ever since she started in 2013 she certainly hasn’t wasted any time. Amanda has wrestled for a wide variety of promotions along her way and has never backed down from a fight. She is known for being one of the hardest workers inside and outside of the wrestling ring. Her attitude and reputation has helped her solidify her place in the industry and helped her form a friendly following all across the country.
It has always been evident that Amanda would become the next breakout star in each promotion she has wrestled for and now her name is synonymous with greatness. Hard work and dedication can always be questioned, but in Amanda’s case, there is never a doubt.
By following the Independent Circuit and reading about the wrestlers and their storied careers, I am able to catch up with some of them and conduct an interview from time to time, which allows them to share with us their story. Recently I was able to catch up with Amanda and she was gracious enough to put a halt to her busy schedule to discuss her career, future, and accomplishments. This is what she had to say.
* When did your pro wrestling career begin? Where did your training take place?
I first attended a PWX show in Charlotte, NC in December of 2011. By the Spring of 2012, I decided to train at the Highspots School. After a year of strict training, I had my first match in February 2013.
* What federations have you worked for along the way?
I have worked for Premier Wrestling Xperience, Queens of Combat, Women’s Superstars Uncensored, SHINE Wrestling, Shimmer Women Athletes, and Ronin Pro Wrestling.
* What does an actual tryout for a wrestling company consist of? How long before you know if you made the cut?
The most standard tryout is an unfilmed/untelevised match called a dark match had in front of the show’s audience before the filmed show begins. Tryout matches make great openers! Usually you know if you’re right for the show if they decide to bring you back.
* How could you explain the life on an independent wrestler?
An independent wrestler’s life is the most unstable lifestyle I have ever encountered. The long roadtrips and endless energy drinks to keep from falling asleep are hard on the body–let alone health and body maintenance from the sport; taking time off of work and family to travel for shows also takes a toll on personal lives and relationships. It’s very hard. I highly do not recommend anyone pursue it.
* Are there any funny/crazy road stories you would like to share?
Yes! My favorite is one I got stuck on with the Bullet Babe Amber O’Neal Gallows in 2013. We were acquaintances at the time and got stuck driving to a show together, having a match, and then driving back. We were awake for over 36 hours. We were so delirious we couldn’t make complete sentences or have complete thoughts. The awkwardness was so funny, we just laughed it off and have become the best of friends since then.
* Were there any obstacles on your journey to the ring? If so, what were they and how did you overcome them?
My answer is very cliché, but I was afraid of failure. The anxiety would cripple me and hinder my performances. I have since overcome them thanks to the group of the lovely girls I work with. They have helped bring the best performer out of me.
* Do you pay attention to other federations or follow other wrestlers?
Yes! I still enjoy wrestling as a fan, and it’s really great to call many of favorite wrestlers, my brothers and sisters.
* What are your thoughts on the current status of Women’s Wrestling and how it has been growing?
Women’s wrestling is now! We are finally being seen as athletes and not just sex symbols. But then again, I see nothing wrong with being sexy and athletic! I’m very humbled to be a part of this generation of growing women athletes.
* What would be your dream match?
Asuka is someone who has impressed me incredibly! Add Lufisto too! If I’m scared of them, I want to wrestle them. 😀
* What would you say is your greatest accomplishment in the sport of professional wrestling?
Endurance. I’m the most athletic unathletic person ever. I hate cardio. Now I enjoy it. It took me only for years.
* What is your most memorable match?
Su Yung vs Me vs Angel Rose for Ronin PW. Su has always made me work hard in every match. She doesn’t let me slack.
* Who are/were some your favorite wrestlers and why?
Lita is the most obvious as she was the one I aspired to be as a young girl. She was the reason I ever watched wrestling in the first place. The Hardy’s being from NC like myself inspired to me to pursue something greater than myself. Add Shawn Michaels and RVD to that list too. What athletes!
* What needs to be accomplished in your eyes to be able to look back and call your career a success when it’s all over?
As much as a TV contract sounds amazing, I want future generations to look back at my name and say “Amanda Rodriguez contributed to wrestling. Without her, this would not be”. I love wrestling so much, I want to be a part of the reason that it grows and warms the hearts of so many more.
***Hopefully you enjoyed this interview and learned some new and interesting things about Amanda Rodriguez. The world of wrestling is a demanding business and the time set aside to do this interview should not be underestimated. I would like to personally thank Amanda for taking the time to share with me her stories so I could share them with all of you. Her time is greatly appreciated…..
***For more information you can follow Amanda Rodriguez on the following outlets:
Instagram/Twitter- @ AMANDAxCR
Facebook – www.facebook.com/AMANDAxCR
Go give her a follow and show some eWN love!
***Come follow my sports site fantasysportsaddiction.com and all my editorial articles along with many interesting minds at the eWrestlingnews FB Fan Page…Come join in and let your presence be felt!