Houston – All Elite Wrestling superstar Shelton Benjamin made a powerhouse appearance on Houston Life. With a 25-year wrestling career and a résumé that spans amateur collegiate championships to world-renowned professional glory, Benjamin embodies the definition of longevity and grit.
Benjamin’s journey began long before the bright lights of AEW. In college, he became a two-time All-American wrestler, setting records and building the foundation that would eventually skyrocket him into professional wrestling history. Since then, he has carved out one of the most respected careers in the business, competing around the world, training with icons, and becoming one of the most decorated athletes in wrestling.
When asked what has kept him in such a demanding sport for so long, Benjamin’s answer was simple:
“Childlike wonder. I’ve never lost touch of the kid in me… I love my job. I can’t see myself doing anything else.”
That passion, paired with discipline, is how he has managed a 20+ year career. He’s never let go of his high personal standards which allowed him to stay competitive with athletes half his age.
And part of what’s fueling this new chapter? AEW.
Benjamin currently wrestles alongside Bobby Lashley and occasionally MVP in the team known as The Hurt Syndicate, and he says fans should expect nothing short of intensity when they enter the arena.
“They can expect to see two of the most dominant, most fierce, most experienced individuals ever… We hurt people.”
AEW’s fan base continues to grow rapidly, and Benjamin says part of the excitement is how diverse the performances are: Japanese style, European technical wrestling, high-flying American energy — there’s something for everyone.
Before leaving Studio B, HL co-host Tessa Barrera surprised him with a rapid-fire game called “Rock or Not,” since Shelton is a huge rock music fan. Metallica? Rock. Foo Fighters? Rock. Beyoncé? Maybe not rock. Bad Bunny? A yes — because Shelton actually met him backstage and loved his work ethic.
The final verdict? Shelton Benjamin may be known for his power in the ring, but he’s also a man of passion and rock & roll.
Houston fans can catch him live during two explosive nights of AEW action at the Bayou Music Center: