Beyond The Mat

Welcome to Gangsta B.I.G.'s World

Mission Statement

Explore the legacy of Gangsta B.I.G., where high-energy action meets unforgettable rivalries. Join us for exclusive content, news, and events that celebrate the thrilling journey of your favorite wrestler.

Behind the Scenes

At gangstabig.com we strive to connect fans with the electrifying world of wrestling. On this website you can discover the stories, training, and passion that fuel the powerhouse behind the ring and beyond.

Sharing Dressing Rooms Around the World

Another fascinating aspect of the wrestling world is the opportunity to share dressing rooms with countless wrestlers from all corners of the globe. As you travel to different wrestling events and competitions, you may find yourself in the same dressing room as wrestlers you have admired for years. The camaraderie and sense of community in these spaces are truly special, and the stories that unfold within them are ripe for storytelling.

Special Shout-Outs:

Photo Disclaimer:
Due to the nature of life on the road, some photos shared on this website may appear cut, blurry, or distorted. Travel conditions, lighting, wear and tear, and the unpredictability of the wrestling lifestyle all play a role. These images capture raw, unfiltered moments from the journey—real, unpolished, and full of heart, just like pro wrestling itself.

Ricky "Soulman" Johnson

Spending Time with a Legend: Ricky "Soulman" Johnson

Meeting Ricky "Soulman" Johnson wasn’t just a chance encounter—it was an opportunity to sit under the learning tree of a true wrestling veteran. From the moment we shook hands, I could feel the presence of a man who had lived and breathed this business for decades. We shared stories about life on the road, the sacrifices made, and the unbreakable bond that forms between those who dedicate themselves to the ring.

Did you know that Ricky "Soulman" Johnson is the uncle of WWE legend The Rock (Dwayne Johnson) and the brother of "The Rock" Rocky Johnson, Dwayne's father? Wrestling isn’t just a profession for his family—it’s a legacy, one built on hard work, perseverance, and undeniable passion.

As we talked, I couldn’t help but be inspired by his words. His experience, wisdom, and respect for the craft reminded me why I fell in love with wrestling in the first place. That night wasn’t just about meeting an idol—it was about gaining insight from a man who helped shape the industry. Whether in the ring or behind the scenes, Ricky "Soulman" Johnson continues to leave his mark, and I’m grateful for the time spent learning from one of the greats.

Ricky Johnson, Soulman, The Rock (Duane Johnson's) Uncle

@ CWA - Canadian Wrestling Allegiance Event.

SABU

Sabu: Silent Lessons From The “Hardcore Icon”

The first time I met Sabu, I was in awe. The man was a legend—one of the most fearless, innovative wrestlers the business had ever seen. I had studied his matches for years, watching him throw his body into barbed wire, crash through tables, and redefine what it meant to be extreme. And now, I was standing right in front of him, shaking his hand before a show. “Did you know that he is the Sheik’s nephew?” Referring to the legendary one and only Ed Farhat, the original Sheik. Sabu wasn’t just a daredevil—he was a man who lived for the art of wrestling, for creating moments people would never forget.

That night, I didn’t just meet an idol—By just watching, listening and observing-- I learned from a master!

The Hardcore ICON -The Homicidal, Suicidal, Genocidal, Death-Defying Maniac

@ CWA - Wrestling Extravaganza (Exhibition Place - Medival Times) - Toronto, Canada.

MARTY JANNETTY

"Marty Jannetty: The Amazing Pro, High Flyer And Prankster Who Kept Wrestling Fun"

If there was one guy in the locker room who could keep everyone on their toes, it was Marty—a true ribber, a master prankster, and one of the funniest, most charismatic guys in the business. You never knew what to expect with him around, but one thing was guaranteed: if Marty was in the building, chaos was coming.

“You always gotta be ready, kid,” he said between chuckles.

But for all the pranks and jokes, Marty was also one of the most genuine guys you’d ever meet. He had the business in his blood, and when he spoke, you listened. “Wrestling’s supposed to be fun,” he told me one night after a show. “The moment you stop having fun, you’re doing it wrong.”

That stuck with me. He reminded us all that, beyond the pain and the grind, this was still about entertaining, about making memories. And if you were lucky enough to share a locker room with Marty, you were guaranteed to have plenty of them.

One Half Of The World Famous Tag Team "The Rockers" alongside Shawn Michaels (A.K.A. The Heartbreak Kid)

@ EWF Wrestling Show -2000's

2 Cold Scorpio

Also Wrestled As: Flash Funk (WWE), Too Cold Scorpio (WCW)

I had watched Scorpio perform for years before I ever had the chance to meet him. I was a huge fan of his work—his athleticism, his style, his undeniable presence in the ring. More than just an incredible performer, he was a trailblazer, a true inspiration to me and countless other African Americans in the business. He proved that we could soar, that we could steal the show, and that we belonged at the top. He moved like no one else—graceful, yet explosive. A high-flying aerial master with the technical skills to tie you up in knots if you weren’t careful. Every match of his was a highlight reel, a perfect blend of finesse and raw athleticism.

The night we met, I was stretching in the locker room when he walked in, cool as ever, radiating confidence.

Thank you...for your advice and guidance.

@ Wrestling Show -1990's

Rhino

I had heard the whispers long before I ever met him—RYNO, the so-called "Rookie Monster," tearing through the ranks like an unstoppable force. A powerhouse with raw intensity, built like a wrecking machine and with the attitude to match. Everyone in the locker room had a story about him, about the way he hit like a freight train and how his hunger for dominance was unmatched.

The night we finally met, I was lacing up my boots when I felt a shadow loom over me. I looked up, and there he was—RYNO, all 6'2"and 300 + pounds of him, staring me down with those wild eyes. This dude is one of pro wrestling's gems!

ECW Hardcore Legend, A.K.A. "The Rookie Monster"

@TTWF Show - 1990's

Tatanka

Crossing Paths with a Warrior: The Native American Tatanka

Meeting The Native American Tatanka was an experience I won’t forget. A true veteran of the ring, his presence alone commanded respect. We spent time talking shop, exchanging stories, and sharing our experiences in the business. Tatanka carried himself with the confidence of a man who had seen it all and fought through it all—because he had.

That night, the lovely Victoria, my manager, was actively negotiating with WWA officials to find a worthy opponent for my next match. But despite the roster being full, the promoters couldn’t convince anyone in the back to step into the ring one-on-one with Judge Pain—figures. There was always order in my court, and there was a reason I earned the Most Feared Wrestler of 1999 award. None of them would have been able to handle The Verdict, my devastating finishing maneuver, anyway.

But Tatanka? I give credit where it’s due—he’s as tough as they come. A battle-tested warrior with resilience and heart, he’s the kind of competitor who doesn’t back down, no matter who stands across the ring. While the rest of the locker room hesitated, Sabu and Tatanka stepped up, proving why their names carry weight in this business. It didn’t happen that particular night due to financial negioations. In an industry where many dodge and others fade away, Tatanka remains a true warrior—respected, feared, and always ready for battle

The Native American "Tatanka", WWE Legend Tatanka, A.K.A Chris Chavis

@WWA Show -2000's

Jimmy "Superfly" Snuka

The first time I met "Superfly" Jimmy Snuka, I was just a rookie, still finding my footing in the business. He was one of the guys I grew up idolizing—the kind of wrestler who could command an arena with just a stare, whose matches I studied like gospel. And now, here I was, sharing a locker room with him, preparing for a match on the same card.

After the show, he waved me over at the bar. “Kid, pull up a chair,” Hey...Brodda...he said, motioning to the seat beside him. I hesitated for a second—what did I have to offer a legend like him? But then,

The Legend, The ICON,

My Friendship with The Icon, The Legend, The “Superfly”

Read Fill story here...........

https://

@CWA - Canadian Wrestling Allegiance Show - 1999.

Gangsta B.I.G. lit up the night with his high-energy, hard-hitting style! Every time I watch him perform, he delivers unforgettable matches, bringing a no-nonsense, kick-ass approach to the ring. Sitting center seat at ringside, I felt every bone-crushing strike up close—the impact from the "Gangsta Death Drop" echoed through the arena. The sound and impact was unrea! We felt so bad for 2 Fly Walker. If you’ve never seen him in action, trust me, you’re missing out.

★★★★★

Stu and Carol Rogers