We were lucky to catch up with Daniel Rivera recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Daniel thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to hear the backstory behind a risk you’ve taken – whether big or small, walk us through what it was like and how it ultimately turned out.
I’ve chosen “Taking Risks” as it truly encapsulates my life journey. Throughout my existence, I’ve held steadfast faith in my abilities. Every dream I’ve dared to voice, I’ve chased down and realized. Each victory has been born from my readiness to leap into the unknown. Whether in careers, relationships, friendships, or finances, I’ve been willing to risk it all to carve out my desired path. Despite facing homelessness, heartbreak, financial hardship, and depression, I’ve always managed to rise and pursue my ambitions. Consistently, I’ve placed my bets on myself, trusting that my self-worth, passion, and unyielding work ethic will propel me forward. As a result, I live the life I’ve earned, doing what I love for a living, with even greater achievements on the horizon.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is Daniel Rivera, though in the realm of professional wrestling, I am recognized as Danny Limelight. Originating from Puerto Rico, I was born and raised in the vibrant borough of Brooklyn, New York. At the age of 17, I embarked on a transformative journey, leaving my hometown to enlist in the United States Marine Corps. Over the ensuing decade, I dedicated myself to service, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant and earning distinction as a Drill Instructor.
Upon completing my tenure with the Marine Corps, I made the pivotal decision to pursue my childhood aspiration of becoming a professional wrestler, with aspirations of venturing into Hollywood. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of competing for esteemed organizations including All Elite Wrestling, New Japan Pro Wrestling, Impact Wrestling, AAA, United Wrestling Network, Reality of Wrestling, Major League Wrestling, and various independent promotions spanning the United States, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.
A significant milestone in my wrestling career includes being the inaugural Latino World Champion in United Wrestling Network history. Currently, I hold the championship for over 430 consecutive days, marking the longest reign in the company’s annals.
Beyond my endeavors in professional wrestling, I embrace the roles of a devoted single father and an esteemed member of SAG-AFTRA, engaging in the entertainment industry as both an actor and stunt performer. Notably, my contributions extend to notable projects such as Netflix’s “The Brothers Sun,” Amazon Prime Video’s “On Call,” the forthcoming film “Play Dirty” alongside Theo Rossi and Ron Perlman, and “Dark Asset.”
Furthermore, I am honored to be recognized as an award-winning filmmaker, having conceived, produced, and starred in my own short film, “Joe Riv,” which garnered six accolades at the Action on Film and Hollywood Dreams film festivals. Currently, I am immersed in post-production for my latest endeavor, “The Artifact.”
Above all, my endeavors are fueled by a fervent desire to break generational cycles and forge a legacy of which I am proud. I am committed to opening doors of opportunity for friends, family, and my community, aspiring to uplift and empower “Mi Gente” (My People).
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
One of the most fulfilling aspects of being a creative artist lies in the ability to convey narratives through various artistic mediums. It’s a manifestation of freedom of expression fueled by an unwavering passion for storytelling. I find immense joy in crafting experiences that evoke emotions and allow individuals to interpret and resonate with the stories I aim to convey.
Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?
The books that have profoundly motivated, inspired me, and left a significant imprint on my career journey include: “The Way of the Superior Man,” “Think and Grow Rich,” “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” “The Art of War,” and “The Pivot Year.”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: instagram.com/DannyLimelight. @DannyLimelight
- Facebook: Danny Limelight
- Twitter: @DannyLimelight
Image Credits
Justin Cotterell Netflix Getty Images