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Professional wrestling and teaching may seem worlds apart, yet several wrestlers have successfully transitioned from the chalkboard to the squared circle. These unique career paths reveal the multifaceted talents and dedication required in both professions.

You might think these tough individuals would be more likely to bully others and shout "do my homework" rather than be the teachers assigning it. However, their experiences in the classroom provided them with unique skills that translated surprisingly well to the wrestling ring. Both teachers and wrestlers need strong public speaking abilities, a flair for performance, and leadership qualities to succeed.

This article explores the fascinating stories of wrestlers like Matt Striker, Michelle McCool, and Tito Santana, who have made significant impacts in both arenas. Their journeys from educators to wrestling superstars highlight the diverse paths one can take in life and the unexpected ways different careers can intersect.

Matt Striker: From History Teacher to WWE Superstar

Matthew Kaye, known to wrestling fans as Matt Striker, is perhaps one of the most prominent examples of a wrestler with a teaching background. Before stepping into the ring, Striker was a high school history teacher in New York City. His passion for wrestling, however, always burned brightly.

Striker's big break came in 2005 when he left teaching to pursue wrestling full-time. He quickly made a name for himself on the independent circuit before joining WWE. Striker's character often referenced his teaching background, making him a unique persona in the wrestling world. He later transitioned into a commentator role, where his articulate speaking style—honed from years of teaching—served him well.

For more about Matt Striker's transition from teacher to wrestler, you can check out his "Life in the Classroom, Squared Circle, and Beyond" interview with Pro Wrestling Stories below:

Michelle McCool: Hot for Teacher

Before Michelle McCool became a WWE superstar, she was known for her work as a middle school teacher in Palatka, Florida. With a master's degree in Educational Leadership, McCool had a passion for teaching and shaping young minds, which made her transition to the wrestling ring all the more surprising. Her background in education is reflected in her WWE persona, where she initially adopted a "sexy teacher" gimmick upon her debut on the main roster.

Michelle McCool's entry into WWE was through the 2004 Diva Search, where she stood out among thousands of hopefuls. Although she didn't win the competition, her potential was evident, and WWE offered her a contract. She made her SmackDown debut in 2006, quickly making an impression with her athleticism and charisma. Her early character leaned on her teaching background, often taking on a mentor-like role in storylines, guiding and sometimes admonishing other wrestlers much like a teacher would with students.

McCool's in-ring career took off as she transitioned away from her teacher persona to become "The All-American Diva." She became the inaugural WWE Divas Champion in 2008 and later the first woman to hold both the Divas and Women's Championships. Her wrestling prowess and strong character work earned her significant accolades, including being named "Woman of the Year" by Pro Wrestling Illustrated in 2010. McCool's success in the ring was paralleled by her personal life, as she married fellow WWE legend, The Undertaker (Mark Calaway), in 2010.

One memorable aspect of McCool's WWE character was her involvement with the "Teacher's Pets," a duo of muscular male wrestlers who would assist her in matches and enforce her authority. This storyline played off her previous career as a teacher, creating an interesting dynamic where she was both mentor and disciplinarian, a role that entertained fans and added depth to her persona.

Despite her success, McCool faced significant challenges, including multiple injuries. She suffered from a broken toe, torn joint capsules, and a torn MCL, which ultimately influenced her decision to retire from in-ring competition. Her retirement match took place in 2011 at WWE's Extreme Rules, where she lost to Layla in a "Loser Leaves WWE" match. After her retirement, McCool focused on her family, raising her daughter Kaia and stepson Kolt with Calaway.

Even after stepping away from full-time competition, McCool remained connected to WWE, making occasional appearances such as at the 2018 Women's Royal Rumble and the 2022 Royal Rumble. These comebacks showcased her enduring popularity and the lasting impact of her career. McCool has also been open about her personal struggles, including battling skin cancer and dealing with fertility issues, demonstrating resilience both in and out of the ring.

Michelle McCool's journey from the classroom to the wrestling ring is a testament to her versatility and determination. Her ability to transition from a respected educator to a celebrated WWE Diva highlights her multifaceted talents and enduring legacy in professional wrestling.

Learn more about Michelle McCool's time as a teacher with her "back to class" interview from 2011.

Tito Santana: Educator and WWE Hall of Famer

Tito Santana, a legendary figure in professional wrestling, has an impressive career both in and out of the ring. Born Merced Solis, he was a two-time Intercontinental Champion and a WWE Tag Team Champion. His wrestling career is highlighted by notable matches, including his participation in the first-ever WrestleMania, where he secured a victory against The Executioner​.

Beyond his wrestling accolades, Santana's dedication to education is particularly noteworthy. After retiring from full-time wrestling, Santana transitioned into a new role as a middle school Spanish teacher at Eisenhower Middle School in Roxbury Township, New Jersey, bringing the same passion and dedication to the classroom that he did to the wrestling ring.

Santana's decision to become a teacher is a testament to his character. Despite his fame and success in the wrestling world, he chose to invest in the future of young students. This career path allowed him to impart valuable life lessons and cultural knowledge to his students. He officially retired from teaching in 2022 at the age of 70, leaving behind a legacy of inspiration and dedication in two very different arenas​.

Reflecting on his dual careers, Santana mentioned that teaching provided him with a different kind of fulfillment. Unlike the physical demands and high-intensity environment of professional wrestling, teaching allowed him to positively impact the lives of young people, guiding them towards achieving their own goals. His journey from the wrestling ring to the classroom showcases the versatility and depth of his character, demonstrating that the values of discipline, hard work, and perseverance transcend professions​.

Other Notable Wrestlers Who Were Teachers

While Striker, McCool, and Santana are standout examples, they are not the only wrestlers with teaching backgrounds. Here are a few others who made the transition:

1. Christopher Nowinski: Known for his WWE stint and later as a co-founder of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, Nowinski has an educational background, including a degree from Harvard University. His commitment to education and research has made significant contributions to understanding concussions and CTE.

2. Damien Sandow: Aaron Haddad, better known as Damien Sandow, briefly worked as a substitute teacher while wrestling on the independent circuit. His intellectual persona in WWE resonated with his real-life experiences in education.

3. Eve Torres: Before becoming a WWE Diva, Eve Torres worked as a dance instructor and was involved in various educational programs. Her role as an educator extended beyond wrestling, as she later became an advocate for women's self-defense and empowerment.

4. Mick Foley: Although more famously known for his hardcore wrestling style, Foley has also dabbled in teaching, often guest lecturing at universities about his experiences in wrestling and his work as an author.

The Parallels Between Teaching and Wrestling

The transition from teaching to professional wrestling may seem unusual, but there are several parallels between the two professions:

• Public Speaking: Both teachers and wrestlers need to be comfortable speaking in front of large audiences, whether it's a classroom of students or a stadium of fans.

• Performance Skills: Teaching often involves a performative element, engaging students and maintaining their interest—skills that are directly transferable to wrestling.

• Discipline and Training: Both professions require a high level of discipline and continuous training. Teachers continually update their knowledge and teaching methods, while wrestlers undergo rigorous physical training and constantly evolve their in-ring techniques.

• Charisma and Leadership: Effective teachers and successful wrestlers both possess charisma and leadership qualities, inspiring students or fans alike.

Conclusion

The journeys of Matt Striker, Michelle McCool, Tito Santana, and others underscore the diverse talents and backgrounds that contribute to the world of professional wrestling. Their stories remind us that the skills developed in one field can profoundly enrich another, no matter how different they may seem. Whether they're inspiring students in the classroom or thrilling audiences in the ring, these wrestlers exemplify dedication, adaptability, and passion.