WWE United States Champion Trick Williams is set to defend his title against Baron Corbin at SummerSlam, airing live on Netflix on August 1 and 2.
Williams, a rising star featured in the third season of Netflix's behind-the-scenes series WWE Unreal, has gained attention for his charismatic connection with fans worldwide and for offering a glimpse into wrestling's once-secretive industry.
He has toured globally with his fiancée and fellow wrestler Lash Legend, while also sharing the emotional impact his success has had on his family in the latest season of WWE Unreal.
In an exclusive interview with Metro, Williams credited John Cena, a wrestling legend who retired in December, with providing crucial guidance early in his career.
“I’ve talked to Cena on multiple occasions, all the way back at NXT.
He would come back and make himself available to all the new and upcoming talent way back then,” Williams said.
Williams described Cena's advice as focusing on the psychological and storytelling aspects of wrestling, emphasizing the importance of understanding “what’s the story?
Why are we doing what we’re doing?”
Reflecting on a key conversation, Williams quoted Cena: “Man, you got to take that opportunity by the horns, man.
It’s no perfect time, but you got to make it your time. You got to believe within yourself that now is your time.”
This inspired Williams to adopt a mindset of seizing every day as his moment, which he credits for his current success.
Williams' theme song is unique in that it contains no lyrics; the crowd's chants form the soundtrack, which resonates with fans internationally.
“We can go overseas, Canada, Europe, UK, Saudi Arabia, and everybody’s whooping that Trick. It doesn’t matter what language you speak,” he said.
Another notable part of Williams' rise is his association with rapper Lil Yachty, who acts as his wrestling manager and may soon compete in the ring himself.
Williams praised Yachty's natural performance skills and revealed that they have been training together.
“He’s been working hard. I’m excited to see when and what he does with his opportunity,” Williams said.
Yachty presented Williams with a custom United States Title belt featuring white fur instead of the traditional leather strap, a design that has sparked mixed reactions but which Williams embraces as a symbol of his unique legacy.
Williams joked about the fashion required to wear the belt properly, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness to carry the look.
For his upcoming SummerSlam match, Williams confidently dismissed challenger Baron Corbin, calling him a “bald-headed bum” who is seeking brief spotlight moments rather than long-term influence.
Williams declared his ambitions extend far beyond this moment, aiming for years of WrestleMania main events and global cultural impact.
“What I’m trying to do is way bigger than what people can even imagine...
He don’t got it in him to influence the way Trick Willy’s ready to influence. It’s a no-brainer,” Williams said.
