“It Was Mind-boggling”- James Ellsworth Recalls How Vince McMahon Shocked Him

James Ellsworth was an important part of SmackDown Live in the years 2016 and 2017. He made his WWE debut on a RAW episode as a jobber for a squash match against Braun Strowman. Before the match, Ellsworth had a brief interview where he said the famous quote: “Any man with two hands has a fighting chance.”

The quote received a good response from the fans. Although Ellsworth’s wrestling skills did not impress many, they were happy to see him on TV screens as a comedic character. Vince McMahon saw potential in him and informed him that he will call him soon. At first, Ellsworth thought it was a joke, but after six weeks, he indeed received a call from Mr. McMahon.

During his recent appearance on Cheap Heat Productions Podcast, James narrated the full story and said:

“He (Vince McMahon) said, ‘I need to hire you.’ I thought he was kidding. I was like, ‘Thanks.’ He goes, ‘I’ll be in touch.’ ‘Huh?!’ Six weeks later, he got in touch with me and they brought me back and he gave me the contract. It was mind-boggling.” 

James Ellsworth picked up a win over AJ Styles during his time on SmackDown Live

James Ellsworth participated in multiple storylines during his WWE run. He participated in a rivalry between Dean Ambrose and AJ Styles for the WWE Championship. During the feud, Ellsworth even picked up a win against Styles. It earned him a WWE Championship match, which he lost.

After his involvement in that feud, Ellsworth joined forces with Carmella and fought in a match against John Cena and Nikki Bella. Ellsworth helped Carmella win the first-ever Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match. Also, he wrestled an inter-gender match against Becky Lynch, which he lost. Former WWE SmackDown General Manager Paige fired Ellsworth on TV and after that, he did not make another WWE appearance.