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MVP Opens Up About the Emotional Drive Behind His 2020 WWE Comeback

MVP Opens Up About the Emotional Drive Behind His 2020 WWE Comeback

In a heartfelt revelation, WWE star Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) has shared the deeply personal motivation that spurred his unexpected return to WWE during the 2020 Royal Rumble. The former United States Champion disclosed in a recent podcast interview with Chris Van Vliet that his son’s love for wrestling was the primary force behind stepping back into the WWE ring after years away.

MVP explained how being a father completely changed his perspective on life and career. “I never wanted to be a dad. I wanted to be single forever, my son was an oops, and now I’m so grateful for him in my life because he makes me a better human being,” MVP said, reflecting on the unexpected blessing fatherhood brought him[1]. This emotional shift motivated him to take the opportunity to make a surprise Royal Rumble appearance — a moment made even more special by having his young son in the live audience.

The wrestling icon fondly recounted that his son not only cheered loudly during his Royal Rumble entrance but was also prominently featured in a WWE highlight commercial, underscoring the unique father-son bond anchored by WWE. After his entry, MVP’s son got a once-in-a-lifetime backstage encounter with his favorite wrestler, Rey Mysterio. Rey, described by MVP as an incredible person, spent time with the boy, gifting him a mask and sharing kind words. “Rey taking that time with my son was a special moment,” MVP stated, emphasizing the generosity in WWE’s locker room[1].

Following the Royal Rumble, WWE producer Paul Heyman reached out to MVP with an impromptu opportunity to wrestle Rey Mysterio on Monday Night Raw in San Antonio. Though not under contract at the time, MVP accepted, viewing the short trip as “easy pay, quick drive.” As luck would have it, MVP’s son was able to watch his dad wrestling his favorite star from home, captured in a touching video sent by his mother. “My son got to watch daddy wrestle his favorite wrestler. And again, that’s all I wanted. That was it,” MVP shared with heartfelt sincerity[1].

This fatherly fulfillment ultimately led to MVP being offered a WWE producer position by then-Senior Vice President of Talent Relations John Laurinaitis. Contemplating retirement, MVP decided to embrace this new backstage role and described his initial experience in creative as “pretty cool.” The ex-wrestler reflected on the intricate operations of WWE’s creative process and appreciated the chance to learn the business from a different angle[1].

Sources close to WWE and interviews confirm this return was not just about career ambitions but rather a profound personal mission to connect with his son through their shared love of wrestling. According to Fightful, MVP’s attitude toward WWE was influenced by his family priorities and later his growing interest in AEW, where he reunited with former Hurt Business teammates[2].

MVP’s candid discussion about his 2020 WWE return offers a rare glimpse behind the curtain at how life off-screen motivates decisions wrestlers make in the ring. His story highlights the importance of family as a grounding force amid the chaos and spectacle of professional wrestling.

WWE fans have warmly welcomed this revealing look at MVP’s journey, and it adds a humanizing layer to a superstar often recognized for his in-ring charisma and mic skills. As MVP continues his wrestling legacy, whether on camera or behind the scenes, the emotional chapter of returning for his son remains a defining moment.

This heartfelt account was shared during MVP’s in-depth conversation on the Chris Van Vliet podcast[1], further illustrating how fatherhood reshaped his career path and personal priorities. With his renewed passion for helping younger talent in AEW and producing in WWE, MVP exemplifies the evolving role veteran wrestlers play in shaping the future of sports entertainment.

According to a WWE insider, “MVP’s 2020 return wasn’t just a surprise for fans; it was a gift to his family and a reminder of why he fell in love with wrestling in the first place.” Fans can expect MVP to continue balancing his onscreen performances and mentorship roles with heart and authenticity for years to come.

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