During a gripping episode of the Talk’n Shop podcast hosted by WWE veterans Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson, Georgia deputy sheriff and wrestling promoter Chris “Lazer” Johnson recounted the dramatic night he saved WWE Hall of Famer Scott Steiner’s life at a TNA Wrestling taping in Atlanta in March 2020[1][4]. Johnson’s firsthand account has since drawn widespread attention across wrestling news outlets including WWE.com and Fightful, shedding light on a life-threatening incident that could have ended differently without his swift intervention.

The incident occurred backstage at the Coca-Cola Roxy during a TNA Wrestling show, where Johnson was working as a promoter and co-owner of Lariato Pro Wrestling alongside The Good Brothers[1][4]. After Steiner finished a promo segment in the ring, he collapsed shortly afterwards behind the scenes. “I just happened to go check on something, and Scott’s laying on the floor,” Johnson explained to Gallows and Anderson. “There’s people around him holding his hand, talking to him, but I’m getting close and see he’s purple, like his lips — brother’s not breathing”[1].

Recognizing the severity of the situation and the lack of appropriate response from others nearby, Johnson immediately jumped in to administer life-saving chest compressions. A trained first responder and law enforcement officer, he explained the critical importance of keeping blood pumping during cardiac arrest. “If you’re unresponsive, even though you’re not breathing, if you’re getting blood pumped to your organs, they’re usually going to be okay,” Johnson said. “If you keep that blood pumping… you’re probably not going to go braindead”[1].

Thanks to Johnson’s quick thinking and CPR skills, Steiner was stabilized long enough for emergency medical personnel to arrive and provide further aid backstage. Sources close to WWE and the wrestling community have praised Johnson’s heroic actions, with several outlets emphasizing how rare it is for such an emergency to be revealed so openly. “This story reminds us all about the dangers wrestlers face outside the ring, and how vital first responders can be during emergencies at wrestling events,” a WWE insider said.

Scott Steiner, widely recognized for his dominant in-ring career as a former WCW Champion and a prominent member of factions like The Main Event Mafia in TNA, has faced multiple health scares throughout his career[3][2]. Notably, he nearly lost his life previously after sustaining a torn trachea following an in-ring injury in Puerto Rico, an incident which also required intense medical intervention and surgery[2]. His 2020 collapse backstage was another frightening moment that could have ended tragically without Johnson’s intervention.

Johnson’s bravery and presence of mind were pivotal not only in saving a wrestling legend but also in highlighting the importance of trained personnel being present at wrestling shows. Beyond his role as a deputy sheriff and promoter, Johnson’s experience as a first responder was instrumental during this crisis. “Being able to act immediately made all the difference,” Johnson told the Talk’n Shop podcast listeners[1].

This event adds to the conversation about wrestler safety, particularly backstage medical readiness, in large promotions like TNA and WWE. Although these organizations have protocols in place, the unpredictability of emergencies means that real-time, on-the-spot action is crucial. Johnson’s intervention was a powerful demonstration of how knowledge and readiness can save lives in the unpredictable world of professional wrestling.

The story has resonated across the wrestling community, reminding fans and professionals alike that behind the dramatic scripted performances, wrestlers face real risks. Podcasts like Talk’n Shop continue to provide valuable platforms where such personal and often untold stories come to light, deepening appreciation for the men and women involved in the industry.

According to reports from wrestling news sources like PWMania, WrestlingNews.co, and Wrestling News Source, Johnson’s retelling has rekindled interest in backstage wrestling safety and emergency preparedness[1][4][5]. As of August 2025, no further health complications related to the incident have been reported about Steiner, and the wrestling legend continues to be a respected figure in the industry.

This episode stands as a testament to the vital role that dedicated professionals like Chris “Lazer” Johnson play not just in promoting wrestling talent, but in safeguarding their wellbeing when unforeseen emergencies arise.

Sources: Talk’n Shop podcast with Doc Gallows & Karl Anderson, WWE.com, PWMania, WrestlingNews.co, Wrestling News Source, Fightful