Today we’d like to introduce you to Mario Pardua.
Hi Mario, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
It all started at an early age when I was 6 years old. Growing up in Poland didn’t have much. It had to entertain me in very different areas. I have always been a huge fan of American movies, movie stars, and America itself; everything there just seemed, such as big bridges, cars, skyscrapers, etc. I was so passionate about it, well I’m my little village. Everything was just so little. One day I discovered the Pro Wrestling program on the TV, which blew my mind. I fell in love with such an American sport and became obsessed with coming to the United States and becoming one of my wrestling idols! Having my dream, I knew it was time to turn my vision into reality. It took me 20 years to figure out how to get there. I saw the opportunity. I packed my gym bag, thinking, “ this apartment will never see me again, “ and the rest is history. I’m 29 years old, living in the greatest city, Chicago, traveling all over states, performing as a Professional Wrestler waiting for my Tv debut. Life taught me never to stop dreaming and achieving my goals because dreams without goals are just dreams.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Always challenging. The biggest struggle I dealt with was the language barrier. I could barely speak English and, many times, just embarrassed myself. The American culture is different than European, but the most challenging part was to start all over again with new life, new friends, and a new job, but I took advantage of it, and it became such a journey.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Polish Pro Wrestler, Artist Pro wrestling is a form of entertainment that is very popular, especially in the US. People say it’s a “fake fight,” but it is a performance-scripted fight in the ring, with two more gladiators facing each other in the specific rules. Also, it’s a combat sports entertainment that enjoys fans worldwide—the show, drama comedy all in one. I’m very, very proud to be one of the first Polish who’s ever been in this business.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
You have to go out there and look for every opportunity. To make my story short 2 years before I moved to States, I searched for a wrestling school in Chicago and found the person owner of the promotion asking questions about the training facility and so on. When I arrived, I went to the same school and knocked on the door. I have met the person who I was texting with. And the rest is history, Steve became my coach and one of my best friends, and we still laugh until this day about how funny it was.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariopardua/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mariusz.pardua?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Image Credits
Matt Tucker Cameraguygimick
