Insight with Chris Van Vliet The Sandman: Wild ECW Stories, Crazy Entrances, Why He Hated Being In WWE, Paul Heyman
May 7, 2026
James Fullington (The Sandman), retired wrestler famed for his Singapore cane and legendary ECW persona. He recounts wild ECW backstage culture and chaotic in-ring stories. He explains how Enter Sandman and his crowd-surfing entrance were born. He also discusses addiction and overdoses, controversial angles like the crucifixion, and why WWE never fit his style.
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Near Fatal Overdose Story
- Sandman describes multiple near-fatal overdoses from opioids and how he survived being clinically close to death.
- He recounts shooting an OxyContin 80mg, collapsing in a car, calling 911, then using again the next day before quitting that method.
Change For Family Not Yourself
- Prioritize family and change your life for loved ones when substance use threatens them.
- Sandman explains he shifted focus to protect his sons and grandchildren and stop living selfishly for his own sake.
Doing Drugs Before Shows In ECW
- He accidentally took ecstasy and acid during a tour and showed up so high he couldn't reach the show until others helped him.
- Paul Heyman pushed him to find cocaine to sober up and perform, illustrating ECW's chaotic backstage culture.