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Nailz Shoot Interview (2023) 6/23/23

In this controversial 2023 shoot interview, Nailz (Kevin Wacholz) looks back on a wrestling career that took him from the territorial system to some of the most infamous moments in wrestling history. Before becoming the menacing convict character that made him famous, Wacholz competed throughout the AWA as “Mr. Magnificent” Kevin Kelly, where he developed into a top heel and challenged for the AWA World Heavyweight Championship. He discusses his time in the AWA under Verne Gagne, working alongside stars such as Curt Hennig, Nick Bockwinkel, and Sherri Martel, as well as his experiences in territories including Mid-South Wrestling, World Class Championship Wrestling, and New Japan Pro Wrestling

Nailz also reflects on his memorable WWE run in 1992, where his escaped convict character immediately made an impact through a heated feud with Big Boss Man. He discusses his matches at SummerSlam and Survivor Series, encounters with The Undertaker, Bret Hart, and The Ultimate Warrior, and the backstage issues that led to one of wrestling’s most infamous incidents—his physical confrontation with Vince McMahon following a dispute over pay. After his WWE departure, Nailz recounts his brief stint in WCW as The Prisoner, including a high-profile match against Sting, while offering candid thoughts on the controversies, missed opportunities, and lasting legacy of one of wrestling’s most unforgettable characters.