Post by Dani on Nov 3, 2014 1:42:37 GMT -5
- This whole podcast thing was actually the original idea for scene one of my Reunion Show RP, but I went with the flashback scene from Anarchy instead, and I figured I would just do it as a CD and not waste what I had written. This has Danielle speaking from her point of view (and there are some factoids about me personally in here). If I actually shit on anybody in particular here... I won't apologize for it because I'm not that kind of person (not to mention I like very few of you here anyways. Those people know who they are), but it's not completely intentional from me. Enjoy it or hate it, I don't give a fuck either way.
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Larry Fitzpatrick: Welcome to the Pro Wrestling Project, the premier podcast for professional wrestling. I am Larry Fitzpatrick and today, we have the owner and chairwoman of the Women's Wrestling Alliance, PCW Hall of Famer and two time and current PCW World Heavyweight Champion, Danielle Lopez on the show today. We will talk to her about her childhood, her modeling career, college, how she got into professional wrestling and so much more! Danielle was very open about herself and fun to talk to. You can tell the drive and determination that has lead her to all of that success, was prevalent in her voice. So ladies and gentlemen, my interview with The Lethal Latina herself, Danielle Lopez!
We skip ahead to the first question.
Larry Fitzpatrick: So tell the listeners about your childhood?
Danielle Lopez: I remember my childhood extremely well. I wasn't the conventional "girly girl". Most girls at that time listened to Brittney Spears and that pop music. I didn't follow that trend. I listened to Metallica, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Nine Inch Nails, The Offspring and Korn among bands. I didn't take an interest in pop and that continues to this day. Only two very close friends of mine are those I can handle listening to it on the speakers.
Larry Fitzpatrick: When did you become interested in wrestling?
Danielle Lopez: Six, maybe seven years old. I was fascinated by what they did in the ring and the storylines entertained me immensely. As most people know, my older brother Phillip was a wrestler for a lot of years, and watching his matches only increased my interest in the sport.
Larry Fitzpatrick: But you didn't immediately enter the profession?
Danielle Lopez: I did not, not because I didn't want to at that time, but I wanted to accomplish other goals I had in mind, like modeling and getting my degree.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Why did you get into modeling?
Danielle Lopez: This is where the not so conventional "girly girl" term comes in. I may have strayed away from most of the stuff the typical girl was interested in, but one of the things I took an interest in was modeling. I saw America's Next Model and I was very interested in what they could do.
Larry Fitzpatrick: I take it your parents entered you in the competitions?
Danielle Lopez: Oh yeah. While they were worried about me juggling that, my school work and my athletics at once, I made it work.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How old were you when you began the competitions?
Danielle Lopez: Sixteen. It was by then where I had begun becoming somebody who worked the extra mile to succeed. I became a hard worker at that time, which is accurate because I was damn determined to make it work no matter what.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How did you handle both that and college?
Danielle Lopez: It goes back to hard work. I knew it wasn't going to be easy and it wasn't. Not even close, but as you have seen from me as a wrestler, I don't prefer things to be easy for me. I'm not that kind of girl. I like a challenge, I thrive on being challenged.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How was being in the finals of the first season of Model Latina?
Danielle Lopez: Surreal. It was an experience I'll always cherish. I never expected to go that far, but I'm glad I did. It was fun, except for getting cut.
Larry Fitzpatrick: After that, you decided to pursue wrestling. Any reason behind it?
Danielle Lopez: It was time to see how it was like. At that point, I was already in a relationship with James Baker, and he was willing to teach me as long as I was willing to endure all the punishment he was going to dish out. I did and well... the rest as they say, is history.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Not long after, you were signed to the CWF. How did that feel?
Danielle Lopez: At that time, I just wanted to work. Overall, I hated being there. I was flat out miserable. They didn't give me many chances to compete and other than a few, who would become the core of PCW's first stint, I didn't like anybody there. That was how fucking horrible that place was.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Seems there's a lot of CWF's out there. I heard of one that allows their women to wrestle naked. It's insane.
Danielle Lopez: And disgusting. I heard about that place from Charlie Luzon when he was in PCW at the end of our final run. The stuff I've heard... yeah, thank god I never worked there. Fucking deplorable shit that is. My fucking god.
Larry Fitzpatrick: When YCW started, you took the first chance to leave CWF, correct?
Danielle Lopez: Correct. I had one date left I had to fulfill but I was gone, which was funny because when I left, they had taken a huge publicity hit from that fiasco with Rob Osbourne. Shit was crazy during that time but it was definitely time for me to go.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Overall, how was YCW?
Danielle Lopez: A blast. I was given an opportunity and I loved every minute of it.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Favorite people to work with from there?
Danielle Lopez: Rosalie was always cool to work with. Her and I were the first ever YCW match. I worked a match with my good friend Israel Steele, but my favorite part was being in a tag team with Phillip, as the Lopez Dynasty. A lot of good times.
Larry Fitzpatrick: After the buyout of YCW and ICW, PCW was born. How was PCW in the early days?
Danielle Lopez: It was different. A lot of people I didn't know then but some I did know from CWF and YCW. From the former category, I became acquainted with some really cool people and they became close friends of mine. It also helped that the company was a big proponent for gender equality in the ring which the CWF was not in favor of such a thing.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How did you handle doing video blogs during those days?
Danielle Lopez: During that time, I had a really bad neck injury so I had nothing to do and out of boredom, I decided to start making videos to update our fans about my progress. They were over, and what was so cool about it was it began my first feud in PCW.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Which was against Talia Skye?
Danielle Lopez: That's right. The blogs back and forth was her idea to enhance things, and they were genius. We were building a nice rivalry while I recovered from my injury and Talia did her thing on programming. Not one time during this did we lay a hand on each other and if I am correct on this, no other rivalry has done that since.
Larry Fitzpatrick: It was revolutionary. And all of that lead to you two battling at Battle Finale II in what is considered by analysts and fans alike, as one of the greatest and most influential matches in the history of women's wrestling. Do you agree with that?
Danielle Lopez: Fucking A right I do. It was very influential. Heather Monroe was gaining traction during that time and she was fantastic, but all three of our profiles were raised after mine and Talia's match took place. That match remains a top five moment for me due to the impact it has had on our industry. You know, Sunday Night Knockout, the Black Rose Mafia, PWW, all of that.
Larry Fitzpatrick: And in the process, you gained a friend who would become a very important part of your life.
Danielle Lopez: Damn right! It was that feud where Talia and I became close friends. Her and I formed that unbreakable bond and it began a friendship that is still strong to this very day. I love her dearly and I cannot imagine my life without her in it.
Larry Fitzpatrick: But for a time it was. What happened for you two to fall out?
Danielle Lopez: I'm sure you've heard about the whole House Show debacle featuring Damon Warrens, Jay Thunder and James, so I'm not going to say the details on that, other than everybody involved in the situation handled it poorly, but there was a giant misunderstanding about me taking sides in that ordeal when really, I didn't know shit about it at that time and I wanted nothing to do with the situation. I told Talia my thoughts on it and we just ended up not speaking for a while. She went to Japan, while I continued in PCW being the Broadcast Champion and building up to my match against Heather Monroe at Anarchy.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How did you two best friends get to talking again?
Danielle Lopez: Through J.T. Banks. He and I have been friends for the last five years and we kept that friendship off-screen during our program where we had to hate each other. I was the first out of our friends to know he and Talia got back together, and I was happy for them because I didn't think they should have split up in the first place. Those two are perfect for each other, but sometimes you end up learning being apart. Anyways, one day he called James and I and said we all needed to get over ourselves and talk it out, because no drama was worth throwing away our friendship, and he was absolutely right. It wasn't worth it and I'm glad we did work it all out. As I said earlier, her not being in my life is something I cannot imagine.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Around the same time of the reconciliation, you had a well known incident at Struggle for Power III where you lost your temper in a segment and started bashing THW. Tell us the details behind that?
Danielle Lopez: Well, when it comes to that, I was just tired of the bullshit I was putting up with when it came to them. Constantly being bad mouthed by them for months on end, and it was just fucking stressful. The final straw was when Jay Thunder and I had a discussion and he told me some things they were saying about me, things I'm not going to repeat on the air because its really personal, and at that point, something needed to be done because being silent was not going to cut it.
Larry Fitzpatrick: So you're saying all of that was your idea and your idea alone?
Danielle Lopez: Oh yeah. Well with the exception of Talia convincing me to stop being a little bitch and go through with it, but by design, this was 100% my idea. Management knew NOTHING about me and I didn't give a fuck anymore. I was so fucking tired of dealing with the bullshit, I didn't give a shit if I was going to be fired, which honest to god, I thought they were going to do so. But they didn't and I'm thankful for that. But yeah, that's how far it went.
Larry Fitzpatrick: What was going through your mind when you were doing it?
Danielle Lopez: That I'm actually doing it. It felt wonderful. It's like finally releasing all of that anger that was built up for years, and at that point, I was more or less somebody who held it all in and didn't like to be angry, but I just had enough. Funny enough though, that segment is what made me change up some things.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Like dropping the Code of Honor?
Danielle Lopez: Yes! Looking back, operating under a "Code of Honor" was just unnecessary. It wasn't me, but once I came back two months after Struggle for Power III, I decided to say "fuck it" and say and do what I want with no regards to any consequences that may come my way. It was time to stop the bullshit and it was the best move I could make. Added some edge to me and a ruthlessness I never had before. I was free to do whatever the fuck I wanted, and I was happy with that. It suited me perfectly.
Larry Fitzpatrick: And that change in personality is what led you to your greatest accomplishment, being the PCW World Heavyweight Champion, but before that, you were in a feud with Reyna Carter. How was that like?
Danielle Lopez: It was different. Working with somebody who was green was something I never did before, but I do like helping young talent and her feuding with me I believe helped her find her way. It was a fun little feud and I enjoyed it. Also produced a brief Black Rose Mafia reunion, which is always fun.
Larry Fitzpatrick Then after that, the big one. You and Syn for the World Title. How did you feel finally winning the big one?
Danielle Lopez: A dream come true. Being World Champion was a goal I was determined to make happen, and I did it. Those who at the beginning of my career said I wasn't worth shit, I proved them wrong. Me winning the belt was a statement and I rubbed it in all of those people's faces every chance I got. I know some didn't like how I always did that but honestly, I earned that right and they can fuck off and kick rocks if they don't like it.
Larry Fitzpatrick: You would be in the picture for the remaining of the run. How did you feel when PCW closed for a second time?
Danielle Lopez: It was devastating. I cried when I heard the news. I didn't want it to go. I loved PCW. I still do to this day, it is the place where I became a household name and I will always consider it my home. It gave me everything and much more. I met my best friend in PCW, and I made other great friends here. There are things I'll never forget.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Once PCW closed, you took a hiatus from all things wrestling, correct?
Danielle Lopez: That's right. I just didn't want to watch anything or hear anything about wrestling. I was turned off from a lot of the things that were going on. When I watch, I pick and choose what I want to watch. I don't want to watch something I find to be a pile of shit. I like matches and segments I find to be entertaining to me. I'm sort of still in that mindset but its not as bad as it was in the beginning of the year.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Now we transition to WWA. What made you start your own company?
Danielle Lopez: I wanted to give women the opportunities I got in my career. I wanted to give them a place where they can shine through hard work and ability. My philosophy has always been that ability and hard work will be the reason for your success. Nothing more, nothing less. I know some dipshits will think otherwise, but I am all about fairness. You work hard, you get rewarded. That's how I did it at least.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How many wrestlers do you think you would employ in WWA?
Danielle Lopez: No more than fifty which thankfully we are not at that number. At the moment, we have plenty of girls on the roster. One thing I don't ever plan on doing is letting the roster amount expand to like one hundred or something. One, I am not made of money. And two, WWA is a young company and while we are a financially stable independent company that broadcasts every week, we only have so much television time per week. We want to spend our time developing the current girls on our roster.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Very recently, you formed a working relationship with Japan Pro Wrestling. You obviously believe working relationships within the business is healthy. Why JPW though?
Danielle Lopez: One cannot ignore the history that JPW has had in their own country. I have great respect for Sarjiku Riyamatsu, and I defended my PCW World Title in his company. Knowing their history and all, I thought it was a good idea to do such a thing and I like some of their female talent. We're in talks about some big things in the future and all I will say is stay tuned.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Would WWA ever form a working relationship with Cardinal City Pro Wrestling?
Danielle Lopez: We did have WWA stars as a part of their annual Queen of the Mountain Tournament, so that's a start. It's hard to tell if it'll go any further. I like the company and I like what they bring to the table. They have some talented men and women on that roster. I have all the respect for them, minus a few fucking cancerous jackoffs in the company, but I won't go any further with that.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Here's our next topic. Do you prefer behind the camera or on it when it comes to WWA television?
Danielle Lopez: I'll be completely honest saying this. I have little to no desire of being on-screen. Why? I feel any screen time that would be wasted on me, would be put to better use on developing the girls we have. I have had my time in the spotlight and I enjoyed it, but its not my time anymore. Plus I love the behind the camera stuff. It's totally cool and I'm the boss haha. But yeah, I'd rather be behind the camera than on it. Let the current talent do their thing.
Larry Fitzpatrick: With that said, do you prefer a man or a woman to be the on-screen authority figure?
Danielle Lopez: Easily. A woman. In addition to us running the world, I would feel a lot better to have a woman help me run something and them have an attitude where they feel they can get things done fiercely. When it comes to my company, you will never sell me on the idea of a man being the general manager of this company. NEVER EVER!
Larry Fitzpatrick: How has the atmosphere been backstage at WWA since it has formed?
Danielle Lopez: Incredible. The girls are hungry and determined. There's also a lot of comradely among them too. No jealously, no pettiness, none of that bullshit. It's a lot different of a vibe here than it was in PCW, and I attribute that a lot to the veterans we have.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Girls like Talia Skye, Morgan Simmons and Mya Denton come to mind, correct?
Danielle Lopez: Absolutely. Those three are great influences for the younger girls on the roster. They have been through the stuff this business has thrown at them. Those three are perfect examples of what locker room leaders should be and I'm proud those three are associated with WWA.
Larry Fitzpatrick: So you would say there really hasn't been any disagreements backstage?
Danielle Lopez: Only when it comes to catering... I kid, but as I said, there's no jealousy and there's no selfishness. The girls focus on putting in the best performance they can, work hard and not be about causing unnecessary drama, which is a very nice and refreshing thing to see considering that drama seems to be the norm now days.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Who do you feel out of all the up and coming girls on the WWA roster, is the best out there?
Danielle Lopez: It's very hard to say as there are some very good young talent out there. The Goddesses of Metal have been very good in the few months they have been together, Serena Mariella has turned some heads with her performances, Mandy "The Monster" has found new life with Alexis Landry as her mouthpiece, Lexi Reiyne continues to prove how good she is, you also have Miss Data, who's just a force altogether, and Riley James shows just how good she is and it doesn't help to have somebody as great as Talia Skye to be your spokeswoman.
Larry Fitzpatrick: I have noticed you have a lot of praise for Talia. Does the world know how good she is?
Danielle Lopez: They should. As an overall talent, the girl is fucking phenomenal. She can get it done in the ring, on the mic, as an advocate, and I have no doubt she could get it done as either an authority figure or commentator if she desired, she's that damn good at what she does. Anything she gets her hands on, she turns it into gold. As I have said before, she is one of the reasons why I am worth a damn in this business.
Larry Fitzpatrick: When it comes to all time greats in the industry, where would you rank her?
Danielle Lopez: Top five easily. For all the reasons I just explained. There's no question in my mind where I ranked her is justified because she's that damn good, and I feel the fans would agree with me on that. Could you call me biased because Talia is my best friend? Sure, but I have been in there with her and I know for a fact, she is a top five all time wrestler. PERIOD, end of discussion.
Larry Fitzpatrick: At the PCW Reunion Show, you will be facing Talia Skye and Heather Monroe with your World Heavyweight Championship on the line. While I'm sure that will be a good moment, but how are you feeling seeing all the old faces you worked with in both runs?
Danielle Lopez: Here's something I'll be honest with you about and I really don't give a flying fuck what anybody else thinks about this. I do have friends and relatives working this show and those particular people either work for me in WWA, are really good friends of mine outside of the business, live next to/with me, are family, or a combination of those options. For the others, which is a majority. If I never see those motherfucking people again it'll be too soon. That's how much I didn't like the majority of the roster in the second run.
Larry Fitzpatrick: We're almost done here. You are a die hard basketball fan and you're very passionate about the Los Angeles Lakers and your alma mater UCLA Bruins. How do you think both teams will do?
Danielle Lopez: I'm praying for the Lakers to look competitive. Outside of Kobe, the roster is awful. Although I do think it's good for us to get away from that seven seconds or less lack of defense bullshit from Mike D'Antoni, and I feel Byron Scott will lead us in the right direction.
As for the Bruins, they lost some talent to the NBA, but I think in Coach Alford's second year here, they'll make some noise. Another appearance in the March Madness tournament is very realistic in my mind. I know we'll definitely be better than that clown college USC.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How are things back at home? Are they good?
Danielle Lopez: Fantastic! Things are always on the up, but we all are more happier, if that was even possible. I am in a very good place in my life filled with people I love and those who love me back. I don't surround myself with negativity and that's what has helped me become happier as I have moved on from the in-ring aspect of my career.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Anything you like to promote?
Danielle Lopez: Watch Friday Night Frenzy live on WWA.com, watch our latest iPPV Gorged this Friday night,, watch JPW shows on JPW.com, and soon, watch PCW's Reunion Show where Heather Monroe, Talia Skye and myself FINALLY have the dream match and tear the house down with my PCW World Heavyweight Championship on the line.
Larry Fitzpatrick: And there you have it. It was nice to have you on Danielle. Feel free to come back anytime.
Danielle Lopez: Thank you. I might just do that.
[End of podcast]
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Larry Fitzpatrick: Welcome to the Pro Wrestling Project, the premier podcast for professional wrestling. I am Larry Fitzpatrick and today, we have the owner and chairwoman of the Women's Wrestling Alliance, PCW Hall of Famer and two time and current PCW World Heavyweight Champion, Danielle Lopez on the show today. We will talk to her about her childhood, her modeling career, college, how she got into professional wrestling and so much more! Danielle was very open about herself and fun to talk to. You can tell the drive and determination that has lead her to all of that success, was prevalent in her voice. So ladies and gentlemen, my interview with The Lethal Latina herself, Danielle Lopez!
We skip ahead to the first question.
Larry Fitzpatrick: So tell the listeners about your childhood?
Danielle Lopez: I remember my childhood extremely well. I wasn't the conventional "girly girl". Most girls at that time listened to Brittney Spears and that pop music. I didn't follow that trend. I listened to Metallica, Iron Maiden, Black Sabbath, Nine Inch Nails, The Offspring and Korn among bands. I didn't take an interest in pop and that continues to this day. Only two very close friends of mine are those I can handle listening to it on the speakers.
Larry Fitzpatrick: When did you become interested in wrestling?
Danielle Lopez: Six, maybe seven years old. I was fascinated by what they did in the ring and the storylines entertained me immensely. As most people know, my older brother Phillip was a wrestler for a lot of years, and watching his matches only increased my interest in the sport.
Larry Fitzpatrick: But you didn't immediately enter the profession?
Danielle Lopez: I did not, not because I didn't want to at that time, but I wanted to accomplish other goals I had in mind, like modeling and getting my degree.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Why did you get into modeling?
Danielle Lopez: This is where the not so conventional "girly girl" term comes in. I may have strayed away from most of the stuff the typical girl was interested in, but one of the things I took an interest in was modeling. I saw America's Next Model and I was very interested in what they could do.
Larry Fitzpatrick: I take it your parents entered you in the competitions?
Danielle Lopez: Oh yeah. While they were worried about me juggling that, my school work and my athletics at once, I made it work.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How old were you when you began the competitions?
Danielle Lopez: Sixteen. It was by then where I had begun becoming somebody who worked the extra mile to succeed. I became a hard worker at that time, which is accurate because I was damn determined to make it work no matter what.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How did you handle both that and college?
Danielle Lopez: It goes back to hard work. I knew it wasn't going to be easy and it wasn't. Not even close, but as you have seen from me as a wrestler, I don't prefer things to be easy for me. I'm not that kind of girl. I like a challenge, I thrive on being challenged.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How was being in the finals of the first season of Model Latina?
Danielle Lopez: Surreal. It was an experience I'll always cherish. I never expected to go that far, but I'm glad I did. It was fun, except for getting cut.
Larry Fitzpatrick: After that, you decided to pursue wrestling. Any reason behind it?
Danielle Lopez: It was time to see how it was like. At that point, I was already in a relationship with James Baker, and he was willing to teach me as long as I was willing to endure all the punishment he was going to dish out. I did and well... the rest as they say, is history.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Not long after, you were signed to the CWF. How did that feel?
Danielle Lopez: At that time, I just wanted to work. Overall, I hated being there. I was flat out miserable. They didn't give me many chances to compete and other than a few, who would become the core of PCW's first stint, I didn't like anybody there. That was how fucking horrible that place was.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Seems there's a lot of CWF's out there. I heard of one that allows their women to wrestle naked. It's insane.
Danielle Lopez: And disgusting. I heard about that place from Charlie Luzon when he was in PCW at the end of our final run. The stuff I've heard... yeah, thank god I never worked there. Fucking deplorable shit that is. My fucking god.
Larry Fitzpatrick: When YCW started, you took the first chance to leave CWF, correct?
Danielle Lopez: Correct. I had one date left I had to fulfill but I was gone, which was funny because when I left, they had taken a huge publicity hit from that fiasco with Rob Osbourne. Shit was crazy during that time but it was definitely time for me to go.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Overall, how was YCW?
Danielle Lopez: A blast. I was given an opportunity and I loved every minute of it.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Favorite people to work with from there?
Danielle Lopez: Rosalie was always cool to work with. Her and I were the first ever YCW match. I worked a match with my good friend Israel Steele, but my favorite part was being in a tag team with Phillip, as the Lopez Dynasty. A lot of good times.
Larry Fitzpatrick: After the buyout of YCW and ICW, PCW was born. How was PCW in the early days?
Danielle Lopez: It was different. A lot of people I didn't know then but some I did know from CWF and YCW. From the former category, I became acquainted with some really cool people and they became close friends of mine. It also helped that the company was a big proponent for gender equality in the ring which the CWF was not in favor of such a thing.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How did you handle doing video blogs during those days?
Danielle Lopez: During that time, I had a really bad neck injury so I had nothing to do and out of boredom, I decided to start making videos to update our fans about my progress. They were over, and what was so cool about it was it began my first feud in PCW.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Which was against Talia Skye?
Danielle Lopez: That's right. The blogs back and forth was her idea to enhance things, and they were genius. We were building a nice rivalry while I recovered from my injury and Talia did her thing on programming. Not one time during this did we lay a hand on each other and if I am correct on this, no other rivalry has done that since.
Larry Fitzpatrick: It was revolutionary. And all of that lead to you two battling at Battle Finale II in what is considered by analysts and fans alike, as one of the greatest and most influential matches in the history of women's wrestling. Do you agree with that?
Danielle Lopez: Fucking A right I do. It was very influential. Heather Monroe was gaining traction during that time and she was fantastic, but all three of our profiles were raised after mine and Talia's match took place. That match remains a top five moment for me due to the impact it has had on our industry. You know, Sunday Night Knockout, the Black Rose Mafia, PWW, all of that.
Larry Fitzpatrick: And in the process, you gained a friend who would become a very important part of your life.
Danielle Lopez: Damn right! It was that feud where Talia and I became close friends. Her and I formed that unbreakable bond and it began a friendship that is still strong to this very day. I love her dearly and I cannot imagine my life without her in it.
Larry Fitzpatrick: But for a time it was. What happened for you two to fall out?
Danielle Lopez: I'm sure you've heard about the whole House Show debacle featuring Damon Warrens, Jay Thunder and James, so I'm not going to say the details on that, other than everybody involved in the situation handled it poorly, but there was a giant misunderstanding about me taking sides in that ordeal when really, I didn't know shit about it at that time and I wanted nothing to do with the situation. I told Talia my thoughts on it and we just ended up not speaking for a while. She went to Japan, while I continued in PCW being the Broadcast Champion and building up to my match against Heather Monroe at Anarchy.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How did you two best friends get to talking again?
Danielle Lopez: Through J.T. Banks. He and I have been friends for the last five years and we kept that friendship off-screen during our program where we had to hate each other. I was the first out of our friends to know he and Talia got back together, and I was happy for them because I didn't think they should have split up in the first place. Those two are perfect for each other, but sometimes you end up learning being apart. Anyways, one day he called James and I and said we all needed to get over ourselves and talk it out, because no drama was worth throwing away our friendship, and he was absolutely right. It wasn't worth it and I'm glad we did work it all out. As I said earlier, her not being in my life is something I cannot imagine.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Around the same time of the reconciliation, you had a well known incident at Struggle for Power III where you lost your temper in a segment and started bashing THW. Tell us the details behind that?
Danielle Lopez: Well, when it comes to that, I was just tired of the bullshit I was putting up with when it came to them. Constantly being bad mouthed by them for months on end, and it was just fucking stressful. The final straw was when Jay Thunder and I had a discussion and he told me some things they were saying about me, things I'm not going to repeat on the air because its really personal, and at that point, something needed to be done because being silent was not going to cut it.
Larry Fitzpatrick: So you're saying all of that was your idea and your idea alone?
Danielle Lopez: Oh yeah. Well with the exception of Talia convincing me to stop being a little bitch and go through with it, but by design, this was 100% my idea. Management knew NOTHING about me and I didn't give a fuck anymore. I was so fucking tired of dealing with the bullshit, I didn't give a shit if I was going to be fired, which honest to god, I thought they were going to do so. But they didn't and I'm thankful for that. But yeah, that's how far it went.
Larry Fitzpatrick: What was going through your mind when you were doing it?
Danielle Lopez: That I'm actually doing it. It felt wonderful. It's like finally releasing all of that anger that was built up for years, and at that point, I was more or less somebody who held it all in and didn't like to be angry, but I just had enough. Funny enough though, that segment is what made me change up some things.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Like dropping the Code of Honor?
Danielle Lopez: Yes! Looking back, operating under a "Code of Honor" was just unnecessary. It wasn't me, but once I came back two months after Struggle for Power III, I decided to say "fuck it" and say and do what I want with no regards to any consequences that may come my way. It was time to stop the bullshit and it was the best move I could make. Added some edge to me and a ruthlessness I never had before. I was free to do whatever the fuck I wanted, and I was happy with that. It suited me perfectly.
Larry Fitzpatrick: And that change in personality is what led you to your greatest accomplishment, being the PCW World Heavyweight Champion, but before that, you were in a feud with Reyna Carter. How was that like?
Danielle Lopez: It was different. Working with somebody who was green was something I never did before, but I do like helping young talent and her feuding with me I believe helped her find her way. It was a fun little feud and I enjoyed it. Also produced a brief Black Rose Mafia reunion, which is always fun.
Larry Fitzpatrick Then after that, the big one. You and Syn for the World Title. How did you feel finally winning the big one?
Danielle Lopez: A dream come true. Being World Champion was a goal I was determined to make happen, and I did it. Those who at the beginning of my career said I wasn't worth shit, I proved them wrong. Me winning the belt was a statement and I rubbed it in all of those people's faces every chance I got. I know some didn't like how I always did that but honestly, I earned that right and they can fuck off and kick rocks if they don't like it.
Larry Fitzpatrick: You would be in the picture for the remaining of the run. How did you feel when PCW closed for a second time?
Danielle Lopez: It was devastating. I cried when I heard the news. I didn't want it to go. I loved PCW. I still do to this day, it is the place where I became a household name and I will always consider it my home. It gave me everything and much more. I met my best friend in PCW, and I made other great friends here. There are things I'll never forget.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Once PCW closed, you took a hiatus from all things wrestling, correct?
Danielle Lopez: That's right. I just didn't want to watch anything or hear anything about wrestling. I was turned off from a lot of the things that were going on. When I watch, I pick and choose what I want to watch. I don't want to watch something I find to be a pile of shit. I like matches and segments I find to be entertaining to me. I'm sort of still in that mindset but its not as bad as it was in the beginning of the year.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Now we transition to WWA. What made you start your own company?
Danielle Lopez: I wanted to give women the opportunities I got in my career. I wanted to give them a place where they can shine through hard work and ability. My philosophy has always been that ability and hard work will be the reason for your success. Nothing more, nothing less. I know some dipshits will think otherwise, but I am all about fairness. You work hard, you get rewarded. That's how I did it at least.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How many wrestlers do you think you would employ in WWA?
Danielle Lopez: No more than fifty which thankfully we are not at that number. At the moment, we have plenty of girls on the roster. One thing I don't ever plan on doing is letting the roster amount expand to like one hundred or something. One, I am not made of money. And two, WWA is a young company and while we are a financially stable independent company that broadcasts every week, we only have so much television time per week. We want to spend our time developing the current girls on our roster.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Very recently, you formed a working relationship with Japan Pro Wrestling. You obviously believe working relationships within the business is healthy. Why JPW though?
Danielle Lopez: One cannot ignore the history that JPW has had in their own country. I have great respect for Sarjiku Riyamatsu, and I defended my PCW World Title in his company. Knowing their history and all, I thought it was a good idea to do such a thing and I like some of their female talent. We're in talks about some big things in the future and all I will say is stay tuned.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Would WWA ever form a working relationship with Cardinal City Pro Wrestling?
Danielle Lopez: We did have WWA stars as a part of their annual Queen of the Mountain Tournament, so that's a start. It's hard to tell if it'll go any further. I like the company and I like what they bring to the table. They have some talented men and women on that roster. I have all the respect for them, minus a few fucking cancerous jackoffs in the company, but I won't go any further with that.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Here's our next topic. Do you prefer behind the camera or on it when it comes to WWA television?
Danielle Lopez: I'll be completely honest saying this. I have little to no desire of being on-screen. Why? I feel any screen time that would be wasted on me, would be put to better use on developing the girls we have. I have had my time in the spotlight and I enjoyed it, but its not my time anymore. Plus I love the behind the camera stuff. It's totally cool and I'm the boss haha. But yeah, I'd rather be behind the camera than on it. Let the current talent do their thing.
Larry Fitzpatrick: With that said, do you prefer a man or a woman to be the on-screen authority figure?
Danielle Lopez: Easily. A woman. In addition to us running the world, I would feel a lot better to have a woman help me run something and them have an attitude where they feel they can get things done fiercely. When it comes to my company, you will never sell me on the idea of a man being the general manager of this company. NEVER EVER!
Larry Fitzpatrick: How has the atmosphere been backstage at WWA since it has formed?
Danielle Lopez: Incredible. The girls are hungry and determined. There's also a lot of comradely among them too. No jealously, no pettiness, none of that bullshit. It's a lot different of a vibe here than it was in PCW, and I attribute that a lot to the veterans we have.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Girls like Talia Skye, Morgan Simmons and Mya Denton come to mind, correct?
Danielle Lopez: Absolutely. Those three are great influences for the younger girls on the roster. They have been through the stuff this business has thrown at them. Those three are perfect examples of what locker room leaders should be and I'm proud those three are associated with WWA.
Larry Fitzpatrick: So you would say there really hasn't been any disagreements backstage?
Danielle Lopez: Only when it comes to catering... I kid, but as I said, there's no jealousy and there's no selfishness. The girls focus on putting in the best performance they can, work hard and not be about causing unnecessary drama, which is a very nice and refreshing thing to see considering that drama seems to be the norm now days.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Who do you feel out of all the up and coming girls on the WWA roster, is the best out there?
Danielle Lopez: It's very hard to say as there are some very good young talent out there. The Goddesses of Metal have been very good in the few months they have been together, Serena Mariella has turned some heads with her performances, Mandy "The Monster" has found new life with Alexis Landry as her mouthpiece, Lexi Reiyne continues to prove how good she is, you also have Miss Data, who's just a force altogether, and Riley James shows just how good she is and it doesn't help to have somebody as great as Talia Skye to be your spokeswoman.
Larry Fitzpatrick: I have noticed you have a lot of praise for Talia. Does the world know how good she is?
Danielle Lopez: They should. As an overall talent, the girl is fucking phenomenal. She can get it done in the ring, on the mic, as an advocate, and I have no doubt she could get it done as either an authority figure or commentator if she desired, she's that damn good at what she does. Anything she gets her hands on, she turns it into gold. As I have said before, she is one of the reasons why I am worth a damn in this business.
Larry Fitzpatrick: When it comes to all time greats in the industry, where would you rank her?
Danielle Lopez: Top five easily. For all the reasons I just explained. There's no question in my mind where I ranked her is justified because she's that damn good, and I feel the fans would agree with me on that. Could you call me biased because Talia is my best friend? Sure, but I have been in there with her and I know for a fact, she is a top five all time wrestler. PERIOD, end of discussion.
Larry Fitzpatrick: At the PCW Reunion Show, you will be facing Talia Skye and Heather Monroe with your World Heavyweight Championship on the line. While I'm sure that will be a good moment, but how are you feeling seeing all the old faces you worked with in both runs?
Danielle Lopez: Here's something I'll be honest with you about and I really don't give a flying fuck what anybody else thinks about this. I do have friends and relatives working this show and those particular people either work for me in WWA, are really good friends of mine outside of the business, live next to/with me, are family, or a combination of those options. For the others, which is a majority. If I never see those motherfucking people again it'll be too soon. That's how much I didn't like the majority of the roster in the second run.
Larry Fitzpatrick: We're almost done here. You are a die hard basketball fan and you're very passionate about the Los Angeles Lakers and your alma mater UCLA Bruins. How do you think both teams will do?
Danielle Lopez: I'm praying for the Lakers to look competitive. Outside of Kobe, the roster is awful. Although I do think it's good for us to get away from that seven seconds or less lack of defense bullshit from Mike D'Antoni, and I feel Byron Scott will lead us in the right direction.
As for the Bruins, they lost some talent to the NBA, but I think in Coach Alford's second year here, they'll make some noise. Another appearance in the March Madness tournament is very realistic in my mind. I know we'll definitely be better than that clown college USC.
Larry Fitzpatrick: How are things back at home? Are they good?
Danielle Lopez: Fantastic! Things are always on the up, but we all are more happier, if that was even possible. I am in a very good place in my life filled with people I love and those who love me back. I don't surround myself with negativity and that's what has helped me become happier as I have moved on from the in-ring aspect of my career.
Larry Fitzpatrick: Anything you like to promote?
Danielle Lopez: Watch Friday Night Frenzy live on WWA.com, watch our latest iPPV Gorged this Friday night,, watch JPW shows on JPW.com, and soon, watch PCW's Reunion Show where Heather Monroe, Talia Skye and myself FINALLY have the dream match and tear the house down with my PCW World Heavyweight Championship on the line.
Larry Fitzpatrick: And there you have it. It was nice to have you on Danielle. Feel free to come back anytime.
Danielle Lopez: Thank you. I might just do that.
[End of podcast]