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JCW’s emerging talent, Paige Collette, is embracing controversy instead of avoiding it; in fact, she’s turned it into a key part of her persona.
During a live chat with Vince Russo, the performer affectionately dubbed “The Ring Rat” shared the story behind her name, its contentious history, and why she wholeheartedly embraces this identity. She noted that the complex legacy of the wrestling world enhances the significance of her character and keeps the audience engaged.
“That’s accurate. Vince wasn’t the driving force.” [mentioning a name]. He’s the architect behind this character concept, but it was actually Jay who initially conceived the idea.”
She references Violent J of Insane Clown Posse, who discovered her and proposed the role.
“For some, it’s just a gimmick. You work with what you’re given, right? Some people act, others take it further… I’m in it for the financial gain. You leverage what you have. All publicity is good publicity.”
Ms. Page revealed that the character she portrays is separate from her true self. She utilizes her experiences in theater, dance, and modeling to breathe life into the “Ring Rat” persona.
“It’s crucial for people to realize… there’s a distinction between the character and who I am. This is performance art—I’m an actress and an artist.”
While some may find the name outdated or offensive, Paige argues that reclaiming this label through her performance is not only entertaining but also a savvy business move. She faces a serious health challenge (CRPS) yet continues to perform amid ongoing pain, proving her dedication and drawing attention in the ring.
Regardless of differing opinions, she stands firm and unapologetic. Paige Collette understands her craft and isn’t hesitant to transform controversy into cash.
Should wrestling promotions reconsider the use of terms like “ring rat”? Or does this edgy character work reflect the essence of professional wrestling? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments on this boundary-pushing persona.
If you use the above transcript in your publication, please credit Ringside News.
Fan Take: This news highlights how wrestling continues to evolve and confront societal issues through edgy character work, which often sparks debate among fans. Paige Collette’s bold approach not only captures attention but may also pave the way for other performers to explore unconventional personas, potentially enriching the overall narrative landscape of wrestling.
