Nic Nemeth Speaks With Fightful About Joining TNA, RYBACK and more

Fightful Select had the opportunity to talk with TNA Heavyweight Champion Nic Nemeth to discuss his upcoming One Hour Iron Man match against former Heavyweight Champion Josh Alexander at the TNA Emergence event in Louisville, Kentucky, on August 30th.

Fightful’s Sean Ross Sapp mentioned Nemeth’s connection to Louisville. Nic reflected on his time in Kentucky and spoke about his tenure at OVW (Ohio Valley Wrestling). He also discussed the loyalty of the fans in Louisville, who have supported him throughout his career. Nemeth recalled some of the OVW shows he worked on. He said those same fans would wait outside to attend an event, and many loyal fans would be at TNA Emergence. Nic said they were loyal fans and would come to every show.

The former two-time WWE Heavyweight Champion talked about the transition of leaving the WWE. Nemeth shared insights into his decision to leave the company after being with them for 19 years. He told Sean about his desire to explore opportunities outside WWE, not wanting to be tied down by a long-term contract and instead wanting to focus on short-term deals. Nic mentioned that Scott D’Amore, the President of TNA at the time, wanted to sign him. He also explained to Sean why he did not want a lengthy contract and eventually agreed to work ten dates.

Nemeth spoke about some of the people he’s fought against, and he's been blown away because he was prepared for the worst. He said he’s been blown away by the talent who are either unsigned or dominating independent scenes.

Nic would tell Fightful about his challenges and aspirations. Nic said his upcoming hour-long Ironman match against Josh Alexander will be one of the longest matches in his career. Despite his initial nerves, he feels confident in his stamina and ability to perform in the ring despite his history of being in relatively shorter matches.  Nic said that he is in the best shape of my life. Nemeth says he works out every single day, no matter what

He would discuss his wrestling career outside the WWE. Nemeth told Sean about the challenge of proving himself outside WWE's "bubble" and his excitement about facing different opponents. He praised his Emergence opponent Josh Alexander's stamina and wrestling style.

The former Kent State collegiate wrestler discussed his interest in MMA. He said his interest was sparked by watching early UFC events, which influenced his wrestling in High School. Nemeth mentioned that he and his friends would engage in body strikes and chokeholds.

The former IWGP Global Heavyweight Champion mentions working with his brother (Ryan Nemeth) in TNA. He noted their natural chemistry despite not having wrestled together much before. He would also praise the TNA tag team, ABC (Ace Austin & Chris Bey), for their skill and smoothness in the ring. 

Sean mentioned to Nemeth that he interviewed Bryan Danielson earlier in the week. Nemeth spoke about his respect for Bryan Danielson. He said that he and Danielson have a fun and competitive friendship. Nemeth mentioned his history with Danielson. Whether it was talking politically outside the locker room or headbutting each other on the top of a ladder, it was a blast for him. The Cleveland, Ohio native said they had fun matches that he wishes he could recreate in the near future.

He spoke about his plans and his commitment to TNA. Nic said he initially hesitated to commit to a long-term deal with TNA.  He expressed his enthusiasm for the company, its locker room, and its leadership. He sees potential in helping TNA grow and is committed to giving his best during his time there. 

In closing, Sean mentioned how former WWE Superstar Ryback had taken a Cialis pill to impress Brock Lesnar. Sean asked Nic who he would take a Cialis pill for to impress them. Nemeth said he would not go out of his way to impress anyone with PEDs and would go au natural. However, Nemeth said maybe Kurt Angle.

On August 30th, Nic Nemeth will defend his TNA Heavyweight Championship against Josh Alexander in a 60-minute Iron Man match at TNA Emergence on TNA+. You can follow Nic on X @NicTNemeth and Instagram @NicNemeth. Please link to the upcoming interview when aggregating: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBp7ZkKpJ10