Ex-WWE Star Balances Life Between Trader Joe’s and AEW: An Exclusive Insight
The international of professional wrestling is regularly portrayed as one filled with glitz, glamour, and non-stop excitement. The athletes and personalities inside the WWE are seen as large-than-existence figures, captivating audiences around the world. However, once the bright lighting fade and the final bell rings, those stars ought to navigate a new path. For one former WWE icon, this has supposed trading the wrestling ring for a checkout counter at Trader Joe’s.
Tony Chimel: The Voice of WWE
Tony Chimel’s name is synonymous with WWE’s golden technology, especially for his iconic “Rated-R Superstar” declaration for Edge. Chimel’s profession with WWE spanned an excellent 38 years, at some point of which he wore many hats and eventually have become one of the maximum recognizable voices in wrestling. His departure from WWE in November 2020 marked the quit of an era, leaving fanatics and co-workers nostalgic for the golden voice that once ruled the airwaves.
Transition to a New Chapter
Following his launch from WWE, Tony Chimel embarked on a surprising new journey. In a candid interview on the Behind The Turnbuckle podcast, Chimel shared the sudden twist in his career course. He now spends his days operating at Trader Joe’s, a famous American grocery save chain. Chimel’s enthusiasm for his new position is palpable as he expressed his love for the activity and the employer.
“My main job now is I work at Trader Joe’s grocery store…I love that place and I love working there,” Chimel revealed. His tone reflected a man who has found contentment and purpose in a place far removed from the roaring crowds and flashing lights of WWE arenas.
Balancing Wrestling and Retail
Despite his shift to a more conventional job, Chimel hasn’t completely stepped away from the world of wrestling. He continues to keep his passion for the sport alive through his part-time work with All Elite Wrestling (AEW). In this role, he serves as a producer, a position he has held since 2023. This dual career path allows Chimel to stay connected to the wrestling community while enjoying a more balanced lifestyle.
“I also work for AEW a couple times per month. I love working there as well. That still keeps me a little bit on the wrestling scene and a little bit on the road and stuff like that. I don’t travel the way I used to which I’m very happy about because I don’t want to. I love both gigs now that I’m doing,” Chimel explained.
From High-Flying Announcements to Grocery Store Aisles
Chimel’s story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of individuals who spend years in high-octane professions. His ability to transition from the high-energy environment of WWE to the more grounded setting of Trader Joe’s showcases his versatility and willingness to embrace new opportunities.
While some may view his current job as a step down from the spotlight, Chimel’s perspective is one of fulfillment and happiness. His days are now filled with routine tasks and customer interactions, offering a stark contrast to the adrenaline-pumping moments of his past career. Yet, he remains an integral part of the wrestling world through his contributions to AEW, ensuring that his voice and expertise continue to resonate within the industry.
Reflecting on a Storied Career
As Chimel reflects on his journey, he does so with a sense of pride and satisfaction. His career in WWE was marked by numerous highlights and unforgettable moments, but his current path provides a different kind of reward. The ability to stay connected to wrestling while enjoying the stability of a regular job offers him the best of both worlds.
Tony Chimel’s story serves as an inspiration, reminding us that life after the spotlight can be just as fulfilling. It’s a narrative of reinvention and finding joy in unexpected places, proving that the end of one chapter can be the beginning of another, equally exciting one.
