Noah “Kona Reeves” Pang-Potjes, the former WWE NXT wrestler known for his confident “NXT’s Finest” persona, recently shared candid reflections on his time in professional wrestling and his current transition to working at Disney World. Speaking with Muscle Man Malcolm, Reeves looked back on his seven-year WWE career and revealed how the experience shaped him while hinting at new chapters beyond the squared circle.
Kona Reeves, a native Hawaiian standing 6’4”, first signed with WWE in 2014 and debuted in NXT, the company’s developmental brand, in 2015. Before WWE, Reeves honed his skills on the independent circuit and notably held the WXW World Championship under his real name, Noah Kekoa Pang-Potjes. Throughout his WWE tenure, Reeves was recognized for his “Mr. Nice Guy” start and eventual reinvention as the self-proclaimed “finest” in NXT. “I insist that I’m ‘NXT’s Finest’ because I know I am the finest in every aspect,” Reeves explained in a 2019 WWE.com interview, highlighting his unique confidence and charismatic style.[2][1]
However, after several seasons with sporadic appearances and character evolution, WWE released Reeves in 2021. While many former WWE talent move on to other wrestling promotions or related endeavors, Reeves took a different path. Recently, he discussed to Muscle Man Malcolm how he has found a new passion working at Disney World, applying his performance experience and positive energy in an entertainment environment outside wrestling.
Reflecting on his wrestling years, Reeves described the WWE experience as “awesome” and “amazing,” acknowledging the growth and opportunities it provided. “Being part of NXT taught me discipline, showmanship, and the importance of connecting with an audience,” he said. Despite the industry’s cutthroat nature, Reeves remains grateful for his time under the WWE banner, where he trained with legends like Afa the Wild Samoan and competed against emerging talents.[2][4]
Sources close to Reeves reveal that his move to Disney World represents a conscious decision to pursue stability and happiness beyond the physical rigors and travel demands of wrestling. At Disney, Reeves channels his wrestling showmanship into guest interactions and stage performances, delighting visitors with the same enthusiasm he once saved for the ring. This backstage update comes directly from insiders aware of his transition, highlighting how former wrestlers are successfully reinventing themselves in the entertainment industry beyond wrestling.[1]
Industry insiders and fans alike have noted that Reeves’ charisma and presence made him a standout in NXT, though he never quite reached main roster stardom. His story is an example of how life after WWE can take multiple forms—not always in other promotions like AEW or Impact Wrestling, but sometimes in entirely new careers where skills built in wrestling create unique opportunities.
WWE.com’s archival interviews with Reeves underscore his dedication and passion. In one interview, he distinguished himself from other performers by celebrating his “finest” qualities, emphasizing his distinctive background and flair as key to his identity in the ring.[2] Despite his departure from wrestling, Reeves’ mindset remains inspiring for current talent navigating their careers.
This narrative fits a growing trend of professional wrestlers transitioning into entertainment roles outside traditional wrestling promotions. With high demands on physical health and mental well-being in wrestling, some Superstars are finding rewarding second careers in theme parks, acting, coaching, and media.
Fans and observers can view the full, recent interview with Kona Reeves on Muscle Man Malcolm’s podcast, where he expands on his wrestling memories and future prospects. Reeves’ openness about his journey adds a fresh voice to discussions about life after WWE, showing a blend of nostalgia and forward-thinking optimism.
In summary, Kona Reeves’ evolution from WWE NXT rising star to Disney World entertainer exemplifies how professional wrestlers can successfully reinvent themselves. His years in WWE laid the foundation for a new, gratifying chapter, demonstrating that the skills learned in wrestling extend far beyond the ring. According to reported sources and exclusive interviews, Reeves’ story is a testament to adaptability and the enduring spirit of performance entertainment.
Key Details:
- Real Name: Noah Kekoa Pang-Potjes
- WWE Tenure: 2014 – 2021 (NXT brand)
- Ring Name: Kona Reeves
- Height: 6’4″ (1.94 m)
- Known For: The confident persona “NXT’s Finest”
- Pre-WWE: WXW World Champion
- Post-WWE Career: Working at Disney World, leveraging wrestling performance skills
- Sources: Interviews on WWE.com, Muscle Man Malcolm podcast, industry insider reports, Fightful, WrestlingNews.co
This transition story highlights the versatility of wrestling performers and adds a humanizing insight into the lives of athletes beyond the lights and cameras of WWE. Fans interested in Kona Reeves’ journey can look forward to more content from his podcast appearances and potential projects merging wrestling and entertainment.
For ongoing WWE news, backstage updates, and exclusive Wrestler interviews, stay tuned to trusted wrestling media and official WWE channels.