10 Wrestling Facts We Didn't Know Last Week (June 24)
5. Curt Hennig Told Curtis Axel To Always Make Time For His Children
When Curtis Axel was growing up in the late-1980's, his father was one of the biggest names in the then-WWF. As Mr. Perfect, Curt Hennig knew all about the hefty schedule Vince McMahon expected his wrestlers to work, meaning he was away from home for the vast majority of the year.
For a young Joe Hennig (Axel), that should have been difficult, but he told Sport Illustrated's Extra Mustard that his dad taught him a crucial lesson. Even though he was away for long stretches, Curt made sure he never missed an important event in his son's life. Although tired from the rigours of the road, he'd also make sure to spend as much time as possible with his child.
Today, that magic has rubbed off on Curtis Axel. A regular member of the touring WWE roster, Axel has three sons of his own. Whenever he's home, he remembers the advice his elder gave him years ago, and even when tired he makes time to play with his boys.
This is the kind of positive story that rarely comes out of wrestling, especially from those who were children to high-profile performers during the 1980's or 1990's.