An interview with WWE's ECW color commentator
Here's a phone interview I conducted with WWE's ECW color commentator Matt Striker last Thursday. JAWBreaker wants to remind readers if you haven't already done so, get out and vote.
Q: Talk about WWE's Smackdown Your Vote.
A: "It began in in 2000. Civic awareness transcends sports entertainment. It was done to create voter awareness, especially among young people. Getting youth involved is really important."
Q: It seems like there has been a little bit less publicity than in year's past.
A: "WWE and Smackdown Your Vote has been out there. As we approach the election, we will kick into high gear." (WWE visits Orlando for a Smackdown/ECW show on Election Day, which is Tuesday.)
Q: What's more important -- getting everyone to vote or placing more emphasis on educating voters?
A: "They go hand-in-hand. I've dealt with kids all my life (as a former teacher). Educating the voter is primary. What you do with it is the responsibility."
Q: Now for some wrestling questions. Why not Matthew Kaye (your real name) or Matt Martel as your wrestling name?
A: "Matthew Kaye just doesn't ring, 'I'm going to get you.' Matt Martel was used to dupe one guy I was feuding with. Matt Striker allowed me to hold on to my roots." (a name "given" to him.)
Q: Will you be wrestling again?
A: "My boots and trunks are with me wherever I go. (I enjoy) imparting wisdom to ECW. I think talking about wrestling for an hour every week satisfies me."
Q: Is color commentary something you think you'll be doing for awhile?
A: "If it were up to me, as long as I can physically and mentally do it."
Q: Vince McMahon is rumored to yell during the shows. Assuming that's true, how long does it take for your hearing to recover?
A: "Mr. McMahon has never yelled at me on the headsets or in person. As far as talking in our ears, we will occasionally get production cues."
Q: Will Matt Striker's Classroom return regularly?
A: "I think you see it every time I'm around."
Q: You were drafted to the Raw brand from ECW earlier this year, but went back to ECW due to the announcers switching shows. Any idea what was planned for you on Raw?
A: "Anything can happen in the WWE. My last appearance on Raw, I was face-to-face with Kane. So, (if that's what was planned for me), it's a welcome departure."
Q: Favorite opponent?
A: (Many). "I got to wrestle the Undertaker, Triple H, Shawn Michaels and John Cena. I learned something from all of them."
Q: Who was better to manage -- Big Daddy V or Mark Henry?
A: "Big Daddy V and I got along extremely well. With Mark, the bottom line for him is competition and winning. He has the competitive drive."
For more information on Smackdown Your Vote, visit vote.wwe.com
If you was in TNA. Who would you like to have your first match with?