The High Performance Podcast

7ft Tall and Fighting To Survive: WWE & AEW Athlete Paul Wight's Incredible Story (E409)

May 11, 2026
Paul Wight, the 7'0" former wrestling titan known as The Big Show, now actor and coach, shares candid stories from a 30-year career. He talks about living with acromegaly and multiple surgeries. He discusses transitioning from ring persona to real self, mentoring young talent, performing for stadiums, and an emotional breakthrough that changed his path.
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INSIGHT

Character Is A Job Not Identity

  • Wight separates character from self: he drops 'The Big Show' persona after shows to be Paul Wight and protect his personal life.
  • He argues older fans and social media allow audiences to differentiate character from person.
ADVICE

Use Small Acts Of Kindness Consistently

  • Be kind in brief interactions: spend 30–45 seconds to acknowledge fans and you can make a lasting positive impact.
  • Wight treats everyday encounters as chances to build lifelong fans and offer support.
INSIGHT

Turning Humiliation Into Empathy

  • Wight reframed public taunts into motivation and empathy, learning not to let others' words define his identity.
  • He cultivated grace and perspective through reflection and time rather than instant reaction.
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