We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Kerry Morton a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Kerry , appreciate you joining us today. Earning a full time living from one’s creative career can be incredibly difficult. Have you been able to do so and if so, can you share some of the key parts of your journey and any important advice or lessons that might help creatives who haven’t been able to yet?

Embarking on a full-time career as a professional wrestler at 24 is both exhilarating and demanding. For me, Kerry Morton, son of WWE Hall of Famer Ricky Morton, this journey has been deeply personal and rooted in a rich wrestling heritage.

Early Beginnings and Initial Challenges

Growing up immersed in the wrestling world, I was inspired by my father’s passion and dedication. Training under the guidance of my father and other seasoned professionals at the School of Morton, I developed a strong foundation in wrestling techniques and ring psychology. However, transitioning from training to earning a full-time income was a significant leap. Initially, I balanced wrestling commitments with other responsibilities to support myself financially. This phase involved performing at local promotions, sometimes for little to no pay, to gain exposure and experience. 

Achieving Full-Time Status

Becoming a full-time professional wrestler didn’t happen overnight. It involved years of honing my craft, building a unique persona, and networking within the industry. Regularly traveling each weekend to different promotions allowed me to perform in front of diverse audiences and adapt to various wrestling styles. This consistent effort helped in establishing a reputation and increasing booking opportunities.

Milestones and Accelerating the Process

Key milestones in my wrestling career include winning the NWA World Junior Heavyweight Championship and, with partner Alex Taylor, clinching the 2024 Crockett Cup—an achievement my father never accomplished. Reflecting on my journey, I believe that a more strategic approach to networking and self-promotion could have expedited my progress. Understanding the business side of wrestling, such as branding and marketing oneself effectively, is as crucial as in-ring abilities. 

Insights from Industry Professionals

My father, Ricky Morton, has always emphasized the importance of understanding the physical demands of the profession. He advises aspiring wrestlers to be prepared for pain, hard work, and extensive travel. Additionally, he underscores the value of education, noting that wrestling careers can be unpredictable and having a backup plan is prudent.

Moreover, the journey to becoming a full-time wrestler is unique for each individual. While some may achieve success relatively quickly, for others, it may take years of perseverance. The key is to remain passionate, continually learn, and adapt to the ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My wrestling journey began under the mentorship of my father, Ricky Morton, and other esteemed trainers at the School of Morton. This foundation instilled in me the essential skills and respect for the craft. I made my in-ring debut in 2016, and since then, I’ve been dedicated to honing my abilities and making my mark in the industry. 

Affiliations and Accomplishments

Currently, I perform for the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA), where I’ve achieved significant milestones:
• NWA World Junior Heavyweight Champion: Holding this title has been a testament to my dedication and growth in the sport. 
• 2024 Crockett Cup Winner: Partnering with Alex Taylor, we secured victory in this prestigious tag team tournament, an accomplishment that even my father hadn’t achieved.

I’m also a proud member of “The Southern Six,” a faction that includes Alex Taylor and “Thrillbilly” Silas Mason

What Sets Me Apart

While my lineage has provided a strong foundation, I’ve worked diligently to carve out my own identity in the wrestling world. Balancing a rigorous wrestling schedule with academic pursuits, I graduated from King University with a degree in Marketing, specializing in Social Media Marketing and Content Management. This education allows me to connect authentically with fans and promote my brand effectively. 

Engagement with Fans

I believe in maintaining a close connection with my supporters. Through platforms like Instagram, I share insights into my wrestling journey, upcoming matches, and personal milestones, fostering a community that extends beyond the ring.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Balancing a full-time career as a professional wrestler with owning a social media marketing business presents both challenges and opportunities. Each role demands a high level of dedication, and striving to give 100% to both requires strategic planning and effective time management.

Goals as a Social Media Marketing Business Owner

In the realm of social media marketing, the primary goal is to assist businesses in enhancing their online presence and connecting authentically with their target audiences. This involves developing tailored strategies that align with each client’s brand identity and objectives. By leveraging expertise in social media management and branding, the aim is to build strong, engaged communities around clients’ brands. As noted, “With years of experience in marketing, social media management, and branding, I’d love to offer my insight to help businesses build a strong, engaged community.” 

Goals as a Professional Wrestler

As a professional wrestler, the focus is on continuous improvement and delivering compelling performances that resonate with fans. This includes refining in-ring skills, developing a unique persona, and engaging with the wrestling community both during events and through digital platforms. The objective is to contribute meaningfully to the wrestling industry while building a personal brand that reflects authenticity and passion.

Balancing Both Roles

Managing these dual careers involves meticulous scheduling and prioritization. Allocating specific time blocks for business operations, client consultations, and wrestling training ensures that each area receives dedicated attention. Utilizing digital tools for project management and communication aids in maintaining organization and meeting commitments. Additionally, the skills acquired in each field complement one another; for instance, marketing expertise enhances personal branding as a wrestler, while the discipline from athletic training informs business practices.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

Connecting with my audience has always been a cornerstone of my career, both as a professional wrestler and as a social media marketing professional. Leveraging the power of social media platforms has allowed me to build and maintain meaningful relationships with fans and clients alike.

Engaging Through Social Media

On platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter), I share a blend of personal insights, behind-the-scenes moments, and professional updates. This transparency invites my audience into my journey, fostering a sense of community and connection. For instance, on Instagram, I often post about my experiences in the wrestling world, reflecting on my passion and the path I’ve taken. 

Understanding the nuances of social media marketing has been instrumental in this process. By employing targeted strategies, I ensure that my content reaches those who are most interested, enhancing engagement and building a loyal following. This approach not only benefits my personal brand but also serves as a model for clients in my marketing business, demonstrating the effectiveness of authentic and strategic online presence.

Connecting with Live Audiences

Beyond the digital realm, connecting with crowds during live wrestling events is equally vital. The energy of a live audience is unparalleled, and engaging with fans in person adds depth to our relationship. Whether it’s through in-ring performance, meet-and-greets, or community events, these face-to-face interactions solidify the bond established online.

Balancing these interactions requires a harmonious integration of online and offline engagement strategies. By maintaining a consistent and genuine presence across all platforms, I strive to create a comprehensive experience for my audience, ensuring they feel valued and connected, regardless of the medium.

In essence, the synergy between social media engagement and live audience interaction forms the foundation of my connection with fans and clients. This dual approach allows me to share my journey authentically, celebrate milestones together, and build a community that extends beyond the confines of the wrestling ring.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/real_kerry_morton/?hl=en
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/p/Kerry-Morton-100063569493160/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerry-morton-b7279b222
• Twitter: https://x.com/realkerrymorton?lang=en

Image Credits

📸 Hiban Huerta