In the inaugural episode of The Rishionary Podcast, WXM CEO Rishi sits down with Chris Adonis — the pro wrestling powerhouse formerly known as Chris Masters in WWE — for an engaging conversation delving deep into his iconic career, his legendary finishing move, and his recent journey in the Indian wrestling universe with Wrestling Xtreme Mania (WXM).
The Legacy of the Master Lock: A Finisher Rooted in Reality
Chris Adonis offers a compelling backstory about the "Master Lock," his version of the full Nelson hold, which has become synonymous with his wrestling persona. While he modestly credits predecessors like Hercules, Hernandez, and Ken Peter for pioneering the move, Adonis explains that in WWE’s modern era, this submission became his signature. The concept was suggested by notable wrestling figures such as Aron Anderson or Triple H, who favored the move's simplicity and legitimacy over flashier, high-risk maneuvers.What makes the Master Lock unique, shares Adonis, is its practical application: before wrestling, he worked as a bouncer and used the full Nelson as a restraint technique, proving its effectiveness both in restraining opponents and cutting off blood flow to induce unconsciousness safely. This move's appeal is timeless, easily performed by kids in playful challenge and mastered by professionals as a legitimate wrestling submission. The technique demands locking the hold properly — a detail often overlooked by amateurs — which ensures its inescapability during matches.
Wrestling Roots and Inspiration: A Lifelong Passion
Chris Adonis reveals how wrestling was his lifelong passion, ignited by watching greats like Shawn Michaels—whom he regards as the greatest of all time—and The Ultimate Warrior, whose unique charisma and character work captured his imagination. His journey into wrestling was fueled by inspiration from iconic matches, especially the Iron Man bouts between Shawn Michaels and Bret Hart, showcasing storytelling at its finest.Despite not having a traditional family wrestling influence, Adonis found motivation through his own fandom and environment. He acknowledges a period of drifting away from wrestling but was drawn back by the emotional and athletic spectacle the sport offers. This deep-rooted love for wrestling pushed him from being a fan to becoming a performer, dedicating over 20 years to perfecting his craft around the world.
Entering the Indian Wrestling Scene: A New Frontier with WXM
Adonis discusses his experiences touring in India and joining hands with Wrestling Xtreme Mania. Initially, he had heard about WXM but was impressed upon witnessing the operation firsthand. He praises the promotional efforts, the energy surrounding the Ground Zero Powerbomb event at Mumbai’s NSCI Dome, and the fervor of the Indian fans.Acknowledging WXM’s mission of fostering India’s homegrown wrestling scene on a global stage, Adonis is excited by the opportunity to showcase his signature Master Lock to a new audience. He hints that fans can expect to see the infamous submission hold in action live at upcoming Powerbomb events, which he describes as energetic and “off the chain.” His experience with WXM has been invigorating, finding a fresh wrestling culture that is passionate and growing rapidly.
Behind the Scenes and Personal Insights
Sharing anecdotes from his wrestling career, Adonis reflects on the importance of keeping calm and focused before matches rather than getting overly hyped, advice especially valuable for newcomers in the sport. He also touches on personal moments, such as his favorite Indian cuisine, confessing to enjoying curry wraps albeit finding the spice levels a bit challenging.The conversation offers fans an intimate glimpse into the mind of a wrestling legend who balances strength, charisma, and wisdom, embodying WXM’s motto "Jigra Hai"—representing Indian grit and passion inside and outside the ring. As WXM continues to elevate Indian wrestling on the global map, stars like Chris Adonis add experience and star power, bridging the best of international wrestling with India’s vibrant culture.
