After being released by WWE in 2010, Shelton Benjamin ventured into the independent wrestling circuit, gaining new fans through major promotions like NJPW, Noah, and Ring of Honor (ROH). ROH was Benjamin’s initial stop, and in a recent appearance on the “Energis” podcast, the AEW star reflected on his transition from WWE to the smaller ROH, describing it as a humbling experience that ultimately helped him grow.
Benjamin shared, “I was humble. I jumped straight from university to the biggest wrestling company on the planet, working alongside the biggest names, which felt surreal. So moving to Ring of Honor, with a fraction of WWE’s budget, was a reality check. I didn’t know how to promote myself, how to book matches, or even basic stuff like whether autograph sessions existed.”
He added that this phase gave him a newfound respect for the wrestling industry and its talent. His time at ROH, along with his broader experience on the independent scene and in Japan, taught him lessons he missed out on by joining WWE at such a young age. Benjamin also emphasized that not all top-tier wrestlers have been signed by WWE, as he’s been fortunate enough to work with many influential figures shaping modern professional wrestling.
Fan Take: Shelton Benjamin’s journey highlights the value of diverse wrestling experiences outside WWE, which AEW fans can appreciate given the promotion’s emphasis on talent from varied backgrounds. His story underscores the importance of humility and adaptability in this sport, reinforcing why AEW’s inclusive approach could continue to elevate professional wrestling’s future.
