Callee Wilkerson, better known as Barbi Hayden (October 2, 1990) is an American independent professional wrestler. She is best known for her frequent work in the National Wrestling Alliance promotion. She first broke into the wrestling scene at WOW Let’s Roll on September 10, 2010 and has been leaving her mark on the independent scene ever since.
Work ethic, determination and charisma are the attributes to a successful career. These attributes are what is needed to excel in the wrestling business. Barbi has mastered this formula and continues to defy expectations.
Everything considered, Barbi Hayden isn’t just the perfect candidate for a truly dominating female figure in professional wrestling, she is a genuine role model for youngsters thinking about taking up the sport.
Barbi Hayden prides herself on her drug-, alcohol- and tobacco-free lifestyle. She is an extremely easy-going and friendly person and she loves her fans, never missing an opportunity to pose for a picture with them.
By following the Independent Circuit and reading about the wrestlers and their storied careers, I am able to catch up with some of them and conduct an interview from time to time, which allows them to share with us their story. Recently I was able to catch up with Barbi and she was gracious enough to put a halt to her busy schedule to discuss his career, future, and accomplishments. This is what she had to say.
* When did your pro wrestling career begin? Where did your training take place?
My pro wrestling career began back in December 2010 in Austin, Texas with George De La Isla (Mr. Mexico in the 60’s and 70’s).
* What federations have you worked for along the way? Which one/ones were an integral part of advancing your career?
I have worked with too many to count! But some of the standouts have been through the National Wrestling Alliance which has taken me to China as one of the first of two women in history to wrestle in China on live broadcast television! I also had the honor of becoming the youngest and one of the longest reigning NWA Women’s World Champion’s!
One of the most pivotal was with Ring of Honor against Athena (Adrienne Reese of WWE). I have also toured Monterrey Mexico with different companies, most often with Lucha Libre Femenil. I have also wrestled for Primos Canada which was broadcasted live on television.
* How could you explain the life on an independent wrestler?
If you work as hard as I do, it’s summed up in one word: whirlwind.
* Were there any obstacles on your journey to the ring?
I describe this in detail on my Highspots.com DVD – “Diva Diaries: Barbi Hayden” but the hardest thing to overcome was the loss of my Dad unexpectedly.
* Do you pay attention to other federations or follow other wrestlers?
I’ve always been an avid WWE fan 🙂
* Which female wrestlers influenced you to become a wrestler?
Mickie James was my main inspiration.
* What are your thoughts on the current status of Women’s Wrestling and how it has been growing?
It’s truly incredible and it’s easier than ever to get on shows because the fans are taking women seriously as competitors and characters they can sink their teeth into.
* What would you say is your greatest accomplishment in the sport of professional wrestling up to this point?
Entertaining the crowd no matter where I go.
* What is your most memorable match to date?
Vs. Tessa Blanchard in China because we knew it was a huge accomplishment. We were the first in history to complete the feat, and no one can take “the first” away from you!!
* Who have you enjoyed working with in the ring so far?
I have learned so much from the likes of Brooke Tessmacher, Sara Del Rey, and Rachel Summerlyn. But have thoroughly enjoyed guess with Santana Garrett, Angel Blue, Su Yung and Athena. I am CONSTANTLY improving myself by wrestling numerous girls and picking the brains of anyone I can.
* Who are/were some your favorite wrestlers and why?
I love watching Dean Malenko, not so much for character work, but for intriguing ways to use my size. Chris Jericho, Randy Orton, and Edge because they are so damned entertaining
* How did you decide on the Hayden Halo DDT as your finisher?
I wanted to one-up all DDT’s
* How did you prepare for your match at “Shine 33” against Leah Vaughan?
I prepared by studying her matches and becoming familiar with who she is. All else stayed the same, training, yoga, working out and eating good foods!
* What needs to be accomplished in your eyes to be able to look back and call your career a success when it’s all over?
It’s already a success, my family is proud of me. I am proud of me.
***Hopefully you enjoyed this interview and learned some new and interesting things about Barbi Hayden. The world of wrestling is a demanding business and the time set aside to do this interview should not be underestimated. I would like to personally thank Barbi for taking the time to share with me her stories so I could share them with all of you. Her time is greatly appreciated…..
***For more information you can follow Barbi Hayden on the following outlets:
Instagram/Twitter/Facebook – @BarbiHayden – Go give her a follow and show her some eWN love!
Match downloads available at: ShineWrestling.com and NEFemaleWrestling.com
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