Ricky Utomi
Pro Wrestling League Champion Ricky Utomi. Photo: @zoltography
In pro wrestling, staying the same is a surefire way to become yesterday’s news. No one knows this better than Ricky Utomi, the reigning Pro Wrestling League Heavyweight Champion, who’s set to defend his title at the Pro Wrestling League & Renegades of Wrestling Australian Super Show on February 14 at Eaton’s Hill Hotel.
“…you have to be different all the time,” said Utomi in his interview Pario, reflecting on his journey as both an artist and an athlete.
Wrestling Roots and the Path to Stardom
Ricky Utomi’s love affair with wrestling began with rented VHS tapes from a bygone era. "We couldn’t afford Foxtel, so my brother and I would rent wrestling pay-per-views in random order. That’s how we fell in love with it," he shared, reminiscing about a simpler time when storylines came in fragments, but the magic as a whole remained.
He emphasised the journey that has defined his career. "I’ve wrestled in Germany, Malaysia, the US, and across Australia," he noted. "I’ve been incredibly lucky to do what I’ve done and surpass my expectations."
For him, wrestling’s appeal has always been its duality: a mix of raw athleticism and captivating storytelling. "At first, I thought I loved the athleticism, but the drama drew me in. Wrestling is like an anime or a movie - it’s art," he said, stressing that understanding the craft beyond physicality has become vital to his philosophy.
Reinventing the Champion
Utomi’s reinvention from Rufio to Ricky Utomi wasn’t just a name change; it was an evolution. "Rufio was my identity for 10 years, but wrestling is about change. I took my mother’s maiden name because I wanted something personal yet chantable," he revealed, citing inspiration from greats like Chris Jericho, whose adaptability Utomi admires.
He spoke about the creativity that wrestling demands. "You don’t always need a perfect plan. Sometimes you throw ideas at the wall and see what sticks. Reinvention is about risk-taking," he explained.
Utomi’s willingness to embrace change has also fueled his support for others in the industry. "I teach younger wrestlers that technical skills are vital, but without showmanship, you can’t connect with the audience. Wrestling is an art form, and we need to keep that alive," he said.
The Super Show and Wrestling’s Future
The Pro Wrestling League & Renegades of Wrestling Australian Super Show represents a turning point for Queensland wrestling, and Utomi is acutely aware of its significance. "Having something of this magnitude in Brisbane is massive. It’s a chance for Queensland talent to show we belong on the global wrestling stage," he said.
Utomi also urged wrestlers to seize every opportunity the industry offers. "Wrestling isn’t just about waiting for chances; it’s about creating them. This event is a door. Even if nothing happens immediately, just getting a foot in is enough," he explained passionately.
As the reigning champion, Utomi recognises the responsibility he carries. "I don’t just want to succeed personally. I want to leave Queensland wrestling better than I found it," he said, pledging to showcase the region’s best talent.
With the Super Show fast approaching, Ricky Utomi’s focus is unwavering. Aspiring creators, wrestling fans, and dreamers alike will find a wealth of inspiration in his story - a tale that’s still unfolding. As Utomi prepares to defend his title, one thing is clear: for him, wrestling isn’t just a sport; it’s a platform for reinvention, art, and storytelling.
Follow Ricky Utomi’s creative journey on social media at: @ricky_utomi
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