In the Black
An Interview with Slyk Wagner Brown
By Korbid Thompson
Jun 10, 2008

Slyk Wagner Brown has either held or co-held a total of over 25 titles on the independent wrestling circuit over the past 10 years.

NEW JERSEY -- Now that I have a little time to get back on the wrestling scene a bit, I thought that I would dip back into time, and catch up with an old acquaintance of mine.

His name is Slyk Wagner Brown. Slyk has been a professional wrestler for the past 10 years, both on the independent circuit, and appearing in both the WWE and TNA.

It's always good to talk to him, and he gives a few thoughts on his career, and speaks to his fans, old and new. If you are a wrestling fan (even if you're not), be sure, and check it out.

KT: Tell the readers of Black Athlete Sports Network what you have been up to in the last couple of years, and exactly how long you have been in pro wrestling?

SWB: I've been in the game for 10 years. The past 3 years have been a true test of character for me. I was involved in a messy breakup where my career and character was in question. My back was against the wall and I had 2 choices: Quit or come out swinging---I chose B. You can knock me down, but you can't keep me down---never back down!
 
KT: You have made appearances in the WWE and TNA before. Can you describe the feeling of accomplishment when you are on the big stage, no matter what your role may be?

SWB: There's only one word to describe it---unbelievable! This is what it's all about, the reason why we drive long hours for short money and put our bodies on the line week after week. No matter how brief the moment may be, once you get that taste you want it again. 
 
KT: What is the biggest misconception that people have about professional wrestling?

SWB: That it's easy and anyone can do it. But that couldn't be further away from the truth. I've been an athlete my whole life and this has been my toughest challenge for many reasons. Nothing comes easy, so like anything else in life---there is a lot of sacrifice and hard work involved.
 
KT: Was there ever a time in the business where you saw yourself as a Black wrestler, or have you always seen yourself as a wrestler, period?

SWB: I wasn't brought up that way, so for me it's not about that---it's about RESPECT.
 
KT: Over the past few years, there have been strides in race relations, for example, Barack Obama can easily be the next president of the United States. Where pro wrestling is concerned, can there be another African-American “leader” of the sport, such as “The Rock” was?

SWB: Absolutely, but it's up to the fans. I know it's cliche, but without them---there would be no us.

KT: What has been the most humbling experience in wrestling on the independent circuit?

SWB: Every event is different, so you can go from wrestling in front of 300 screaming fans to a thousand to 50 on any night given weekend. Sometimes you may even have to change in a parking lot under a tent.
 
KT: At the young age of 28 (I would love to be 28 again), how much longer do you give yourself to continue performing at a high level?

SWB: I don't know, but I'm hoping my body can hold up for another 10 years.
 
KT: For the people at BASN who are getting to know you for the first time, what would you like to say to those folks who eventually become SWB fans?

SWB: Thank you for giving me a chance and feel free to join us on this ride---you will not be disappointed. And to all the fans who have been down for the past 10 years---thank you for your love and support through the good times and the bad. You are appreciated.

KT: Slyk, thanks again for the time. Be sure and keep it going.

NOTE: Be sure and check out Slyk Wagner Brown on the web at www.ThisIsSWB.com.