Eddie Kingston Admits Feeling Undeserving Despite Success

Eddie Kingston recently opened up about his personal struggles and triumphs, sharing heartfelt reflections on his career and the emotional moments that have shaped him.

On the debut episode of AEW Meal & a Match, Kingston discussed some of his personal moments in his life and career. Reflecting on his wrestling journey, Kingston shared the story of the last time he cried, which was when he won the New Japan Strong Openweight Championship by defeating KENTA at Korakuen Hall.

“The last time I cried was when I beat KENTA for the New Japan Strong Openweight Championship in Korakuen Hall…when I first broke in, I didn’t want to wrestle in America. I wanted to do it in Japan because to me the Japanese professional wrestling style fits me better. I wouldn’t say it’s the best but it fits me better. So being able to do it after 22 years of struggling and making a lot of mistakes and a lot of enemies, it just broke me down emotionally because I couldn’t believe it that this was actually real.”

Kingston also spoke about his reaction to the affection he receives from fans. He admitted that it sometimes overwhelms him and makes him feel undeserving. He shared that before joining AEW, he was struggling to make ends meet and even had to sell his wrestling gear to pay his mortgage. His career took a turn when he called out Cody Rhodes, leading to a “whirlwind” of opportunities that still leave him in awe.

“That freaks me out. That’s the other deep part too is that when I do reflect, a lot of times it’s by myself in the hotel room after the show or after a moment. Sometimes I break down because sometimes I feel like I don’t deserve it. That’s one of my curses that I have. It’s such a weird thing that it’s actually happening. Before AEW, I was selling my wrestling stuff to be able to pay my mortgage. At the time I was like, this is it, it’s over. I talked a little sh*t on Cody and they just picked up from there and it’s been a whirlwind but like I said, when I do reflect, I’m happy but I still doubt myself and I still am insecure about certain things. So then I just kind of sit there and go do I really deserve this? I don’t like the compliments. I don’t like people telling me I’m an inspiration and stuff like that because it’s weird because I’m just me. I’m me 24 hours a day.”

Last week, Kingston’s career took a huge setback when he sustained a tibular fracture in his leg. Although the episode was taped before his recent leg injury, Kingston emphasized that his journey is far from over. He is currently out of action and is not expected to return until early 2025.

What do you think about Eddie Kingston’s revelations? Share your thoughts and support for Eddie in the comments below!