Insight with Chris Van Vliet Jimmy Wang Yang: Vince McMahon Forgot He Fired Me, Asian Redneck Gimmick, Ruthless Aggression Era
May 12, 2026
James Yun, pro wrestler known for his WWE run as Jimmy Wang Yang and longtime international veteran, reflects on meeting DDP, being rehired by Vince McMahon and the creation of the Asian redneck persona. He discusses flying Elvis in TNA, running a party bus and a wrestling school, and coaching his daughter Jazzy as she follows in his footsteps.
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Hated The Theme But Commentators Made Me Pop
- Yun hated his bluegrass theme initially because it didn't pump him up for matches, yet the theme helped the character's porch-sitting redneck vibe and fan recognition.
- He says commentators like JBL amplified the gimmick with memorable lines, helping him gain mainstream attention.
Surprised With A Flying Elvis Costume In TNA
- Yun was shocked when TNA handed him a Flying Elvis costume without prior notice, initially refusing it because he worried it would hurt his All Japan credibility.
- He ultimately embraced the absurdity, enjoyed performing it, and says it didn't ruin his Japan career.
Gimmicks Migrate Between Promotions
- The Flying Elvis idea actually originated with Triple H and Shawn Michaels but was later taken to TNA, illustrating how creative concepts can migrate between promotions.
- Yun recounts Hunter and Shawn pitching it to Vince who dismissed them, then the idea resurfaced at TNA.