EXCLUSIVE: Kevin Kelly on Mentoring Wrestling’s Next Generation – “If wrestling is in your heart, you can do anything—and if it’s not, you’ll find another industry to work in.”
When fans think of Kevin Kelly, they often recall his backstage antics with The Rock in WWE’s Attitude Era or his sports-like analysis in Ring of Honor and New Japan Pro Wrestling. But there’s another defining role he’s played over the years: mentor. In an exclusive interview with [@WrestleMobs], Kevin explains how he molds the next wave of wrestling voices—especially Chris Charlton and Walker Stewart—ensuring the industry remains rich in storytelling and authenticity.
Watch the full interview here:
https://youtu.be/PTrPblSpVJU
“If Wrestling Is in Your Heart, You Can Do Anything”
Wrestling’s backstage world can be chaotic, with a never-ending list of tasks. Kevin Kelly knows this all too well, having juggled on-air commentary, a managerial role, and even being Managing Editor of WWE Magazines.
“What did I know about magazines? Nothing,” Kevin says.
“But if wrestling is in your heart, you can do anything. If it’s not, you’ll do something else.”
This philosophy—being willing to take on any role that needs filling—forms the core of his mentorship approach. Whether it’s ring announcing or writing promos, Kevin encourages new talent to dive in, learn by doing, and never say “no” to an opportunity.
Chris Charlton & Walker Stewart: Shining Examples
Chris Charlton: From Quiet Historian to On-Air Authority
A historian and translator by trade, Chris Charlton initially worked behind the scenes in New Japan Pro Wrestling. But Kevin recognized Chris’s gift for blending cultural context with up-to-the-minute analysis.
“Chris was always brilliant,” Kevin notes.
“He brings historical depth most fans never knew they needed. Once he found his confidence on the mic, he gave our broadcasts a poetic layer.”
Walker Stewart: The Energetic Newcomer
Walker Stewart entered NJPW commentary with infectious enthusiasm—a quality Kevin saw as essential.
“Walker’s doing a fantastic job,” Kevin says.
“He’s the right mix of excitement and respect for the sport. You can’t teach genuine energy—it has to come from loving the product.”
Both Charlton and Stewart credit Kevin for helping them understand the finer points of camera awareness, pacing, and how to shape a narrative. But, as Kevin is quick to add, it’s their passion that truly sets them apart.
The Seminars: Fundamentals & Flexibility
Kevin’s teaching style—through seminars or one-on-one coaching—emphasizes a few core principles:
- Camera Awareness: Wrestling commentary isn’t just for the live crowd; it’s for viewers worldwide who rely on you to “be their eyes.”
- Pacing & Timing: “A half-step in the wrong direction can cut the shot off,” Kevin warns.
- Storytelling: Moves alone won’t captivate fans. The “why” is what sticks.
“If you love this business,” Kevin says,
“you’ll show up early, stay late, and take every chance to learn. That’s how you get noticed.”
Passion at the Core
Throughout the interview, Kevin circles back to one key ingredient: passion. Technical know-how means little if you’re not truly invested.
“I’ve seen people with all the talent in the world burn out because they didn’t love it enough. But if wrestling is in your blood, you’ll find a way.”
That underlying drive is exactly what propelled Kevin from local radio gigs to the biggest events in pro wrestling—and it’s the quality he sees fueling Chris Charlton, Walker Stewart, and many other voices on the rise.
Final Word: “Don’t Wait for Permission”
Kevin’s ultimate advice to anyone eyeing a future in wrestling—whether on the mic or behind the scenes—is straightforward:
“Don’t wait for someone to invite you in. Offer to help anywhere and everywhere. If wrestling is in your heart, there’s no limit to what you can do.”
It’s a lesson that’s spanned decades of Kevin’s own career, from Attitude Era skits to main-event commentary. With protégés like Charlton and Stewart carrying on his “do everything” ethos, the next generation of wrestling storytellers appears to be in good hands.
For more insights straight from Kevin Kelly—and to see Chris Charlton, Walker Stewart, and others in action—watch our exclusive interview on [@WrestleMobs]:
https://youtu.be/PTrPblSpVJU
