JC Mateo, known in the wrestling arena as the newest powerhouse of WWE’s formidable Bloodline faction, has a compelling backstory that diverges significantly from the family narratives often highlighted in WWE programming. Despite his fictional connections to Roman Reigns and the Anoa’i family, Mateo has no actual familial ties to them, grounding his journey in a unique personal experience rather than a lineage.
Growing up in Pearl City, Hawaii, Mateo’s wrestling aspirations were ignited not by wrestling royalty but by the iconic WWE figure, Hulk Hogan. In a recent interview, he expressed how Hogan’s influence deeply inspired him. “Just seeing him on TV, the red and yellow, and it’s like, ‘Say your prayers and take your vitamins.’ I was like I’m going to be like him when I grow up,” Mateo reminisced. This admiration was rooted in Hogan’s charisma and showmanship, showcasing that Mateo’s excitement for wrestling stemmed from individual inspiration rather than any bloodline connection.
Mateo’s path to WWE was unexpected and a bit whimsical. His entry into wrestling began with a misunderstanding of a school flyer that promised wrestling lessons, leading him to find his passion for the sport through a journey that took him all the way to the Olympics, where he represented Guam in 2004. Upon returning to Hawaii post-college, he carved a niche in Action Zone Wrestling as “Mr. Athletic,” impressing fans with his combination of strength and agility.
His journey included repeated invitations from WWE, which started as early as 2014. However, he declined their offers until he was ready. “From 2020 to 2024, I had like two or three other offers from them (WWE). It’s very fortunate in my career where I could turn them down and be fine with it, and then finally they got me,” Mateo reflected on his decision-making process.
Mateo’s hard work and determination culminated with his WWE debut at Backlash 2025, where he made headlines with a shocking attack on LA Knight, officially joining the Bloodline faction led by Solo Sikoa.
This narrative exemplifies resilience and passion within the wrestling industry, highlighting that paths to success can be as varied as the individuals who pursue them. JC Mateo’s journey reminds aspiring athletes that dedication and authenticity can lead to fulfilling one’s dreams, whether or not they align with traditional narratives of heritage and legacy.