Behind The Scenes Of WWNLive/EVOLVE
An exclusive interview with digital media producer David M. Velesaca.
One of the great things The Wrestling Estate has allowed me to do is to connect with all sorts of wrestling industry professionals.
That is why on a sporadic basis throughout 2020, I will be bringing several exclusive interviews from industry insiders, helping fans learn more about their work and impact on the business.
The first of these interviews comes courtesy of the great David M. Velesaca, a video and social media producer for WWNLive and EVOLVE Wrestling.
How long have you been a pro wrestling fan?
David M. Velesaca: “The year was 2000. My pal Anthony was really into wrestling. We went to his place and watched WrestleMania 16. At that time, we knew nothing about wrestling. I had no idea who the wrestlers in the ring were, and I had less of a clue that I had just stumbled onto something that would change the trajectory of my life.”
Growing up, who were your favorite wrestlers and what were your favourite matches?
Velesaca: “Steve Blackman, Triple H and Crash Holly, who made me laugh. Favorite match is WWE WrestleMania 17: Stone Cold and The Rock.”
Have you attended many wrestling shows?
Velesaca: “Growing up, I did attend many shows. But the first event I recall was a WWE house show. My father was ecstatic. I learned when he was a teenager his favorite wrestler was Hulk Hogan. At the time, I believe Hogan was the WWE Undisputed Champion. So my father purchased a shirt and joined the chants. You’ve never met my old man; he always had a straight face. Never really smiled. Worked long hours. So seeing him enjoy himself was a real plus.”
How did you get involved with WWNLive?
Velesaca: “I reached out to ‘The Ambassador of WWN’ Trevin Adams. We’d met and spoken a few times beforehand. I pitched an idea about creating social media content for their pages, and the pieces sort of fell into place.”
How long have you been part of the WWNLive family?
Velesaca: “It’s about to be a year.”
What is your main role as part of WWNLive?
Velesaca: “If you’re not in the ring, you’re wearing many different hats. Once everything is sorted and the doors are ready to open, my role is to capture content for their social media pages, as well as assist their documentarian Kenny Johnson.”
How do you feel seeing guys like Ricochet, Johnny Gargano, Sami Callihan and Darby Allin ruling the wrestling world after being part of WWNLive?
Velesaca: “Wouldn’t credit only WWNLive. They were doing amazing things in other promotions as well, but I am happy they are leaving their mark in this business. Proof that hard work pays off.”
What is it like working for Gabe Sapolsky?
Velesaca: “Watching Sapolosky work is educational. Seeing how he works with wrestlers and exchanges input. It’s great.”
For several years, EVOLVE Wrestling and WWNLive have had close ties with NXT and WWE. What is it like working closely with WWE?
Velesaca: “Educational in every level.”
The relationship between the two companies recently peaked when the WWE Network presented EVOLVE 131 aka EVOLVE & Dragon Gate USA’s 10th Anniversary Celebration, which was the first independent wrestling show to appear on the WWE Network. What was it like being part of such a historic event?
Velesaca: “Emotional. You work hard and strive to earn an opportunity. So that night meant so much to everyone. From the wrestlers in the ring, to the WWN camera operators and Evolve Wrestling’s documentarian Kenny Johnson. Seeing our work on the show – we were proud.”
WWNLive has had a ton of brilliant matches and shows over the years. What have been some of your favorites since working for the company?
Velesaca: “JD Drake and Austin Theory. They told a story inside the ring and out. It flowed and worked so well. Happy to have been there in person to experience it.”
WWNLive has currently got a great crop of fresh talent, including Josh Briggs, Anthony Greene and JD Drake. Are there any talents you’d like to see make their name(s) in WWNLive?
Velesaca: “Wow! There is a unique group that has caught my attention who have amazing chemistry. I would love to see The Mane Event from HOG Wrestling debut in WWNLive. It’s a circus lion tamer and his lion! If you haven’t heard of them, then please look them up. They’re bringing something truly special and unique to the tag team division.”
What does the future hold for WWNLive?
Velesaca: “Anything is possible, honestly. But I’m focused on the present. Lots to do.”
Finally, where can people find you and/or connect with you on Social Media?
Velesaca: “I’d much rather they follow us @WWNEVOLVE and @WWNLive on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.”
About Author
