Among the remarkable moments from the USA Network debut of “WWE SmackDown” last Friday, one of the most important was the spotlight on independent wrestler Ricky Gibson. Known for his work in DEFY, the Pacific Northwest-based wrestler took the chance to step up as Kevin Owens’ temporary tag team partner against Austin Theory and Grayson Waller.
Though Randy Orton eventually assumed the role, Gibson made an impact, sparking the trend “We Want Ricky” on social media. During a Monday appearance on “Busted Open Radio,” Gibson shared the story of how he embraced this unexpected chance.
“Gabe Sapolsky reached out a few weeks back, mentioning that ‘SmackDown’ and ‘Raw’ would be in Seattle and Portland,” Gibson explained. “‘It would be awesome if you could come to Seattle for some extra work.’ So, I showed up like anyone else, dressed up, went to catering, and waited. Then I spotted Kevin Owens wandering around the hallways, looking unsure of his plans.”
“He was clearly trying to figure out what to do,” Gibson continued. “So, I approached him and asked, ‘What can I do for you? How can I help?’ Given that I’ve been a tag team wrestler for years, it just clicked. When he said he needed a partner, I stepped in, saying, ‘I’m your guy.'”
Gibson also mentioned that Owens had approached several other wrestlers before him, but they declined the opportunity. “I saw him ask Booker, RVD, and a bunch of other guys, but everyone turned him down,” Gibson revealed. “So, I was the one who stepped up. Who else but me?”