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APOLLO CREWS: A TRUE NIGERIAN WARRIOR

By Kendall Jenkins on 2024-10-08 07:00:00

Apollo Crews may have been born in the USA, but Nigeria runs deep in his veins. Nigerian law allows nationality for those born abroad with at least one Nigerian parent, and Apollo fits this perfectly. While his father is American, he proudly carries the heritage of Nigeria, making him a representative of the African nation even in the WWE.

A Nigerian Champion in WWE

Apollo made history by becoming the first Nigerian to win a WWE title, a moment that made him reflect on his roots. From that point on, he embraced his Nigerian identity fully and became a proud ambassador of his country in Vince McMahon's wrestling empire. You can't bet on WWE in betshops in Nigeria because WWE is more of a show than a sport. However, you can bet on other combat sports like boxing, UFC, and more. Visit Surebet and make your choice.

From Childhood Dreams to WWE

Growing up, Apollo was inspired by some of the biggest legends in wrestling. He has often mentioned that The Undertaker and Ultimate Warrior fueled his desire to step into the ring, with others like Kurt Angle, Stone Cold, and Triple H also influencing him, especially during the iconic Attitude Era.

The Origin of ‘Uhaa Nation’

Before becoming Apollo Crews, he was known as Uhaa Nation—a name given to him by his high school coach. “When I was in high school lifting weights, my coach would say I was as strong as a whole nation. He started calling me ‘Uhaa Nation,’ and the name stuck with me.”

Discipline and Skill

Two words that sum up Apollo: discipline and skill. He learned these values early in life. His agility, often seen in his high-flying wrestling moves, came from his gymnastics classes as a child. His discipline came from his time in a military school, where he trained relentlessly every day without excuses.

A Football Fan
While not the type to be in the stands every weekend, Apollo does enjoy football. It’s rumored that his favorite team is Manchester United, showing his appreciation for the beautiful game.

A Colo-Colo Supporter?
Apollo might also have a soft spot for Chilean football club Colo-Colo, reportedly due to his admiration for midfielder Leo Gil. Though this has yet to be confirmed, it adds another layer to his diverse interests.

Living the Dream

One of Apollo’s dreams was to face off against his wrestling idol, Kurt Angle. That dream came true when they clashed on Angle’s farewell tour leading up to Wrestlemania. For Apollo, it was a defining moment, crossing paths with the Olympic hero he had admired for years.

A Close Friendship

Apollo and fellow WWE star Ricochet share a strong bond, having lived together for a time in Orlando, Florida. Fans have often wondered if these two friends will ever team up officially in the ring—only time will tell.

Five Years to Glory

Apollo's WWE journey wasn't a smooth ride. After signing his contract in 2014, it wasn’t until 2015 that he debuted in NXT, and success didn’t come easy in either NXT or the main roster. It took a grueling 1,846 days before Apollo won his first championship—the WWE United States title.

His Greatest Treasures

While Apollo keeps his personal life mostly private, he has shared glimpses of what matters most to him: his two beautiful children, daughter Sade and son Kai. For him, they are his greatest treasures and the source of his pride.

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