WWE Superstar “Main Event” Jey Uso spoke with amNewYork Metro on Monday ahead of Monday Night Raw in Madison Square Garden.
Known for his catchphrase “YEET!,” Uso — who is set to fight for the World Heavyweight Championship at Wrestlemania next month — headed to Staten Island on March 10 to meet his rabid fan base at the Cricket Wireless storefront located at 25 Victory Blvd.
Wrestling fans lined up the sidewalk for blocks, with some supporters camping out overnight. As he arrived, children on the outside pressed their faces to the glass in shock and awe at meeting their hero.
“It’s humbling, man, because there was a moment when it wasn’t like this. So, I appreciate the moment now,” Uso told amNewYork Metro.
Historically, Uso had spent his career teaming with his twin brother Jimmy Uso where they had much success. However, when he ventured out on his own in single competition he soared to even greater heights after the WWE Universe got behind him. Fans of all ages now perform his signature “YEET” arm motion as he arrives to the ring. Thousands are seen weekly rapidly raising their arms in unison with the superstar. He said he first noticed the love he was receiving about a year ago.
“Close to a year ago, when I got on my own. I was still ‘Main Event’ Jey Uso, but it just kind of took off way more this past year. That’s when I kind of seen the people with me,” Uso told amNewYork Metro.
This slingshot to stardom saw him winning the Royal Rumble back in February, securing his spot to face off against current World Heavyweight Champion Gunther at Wrestlemania. This will mark one of the most important matches in his career and could go even further to cement his legacy.
“There is a lot going on right now. Since I’ve won the rumble, man, it has just been hitting on all cylinders, I’m ready for Wrestlemania, though, for sure, wrestle the main event, WrestleMania for my second time,” Uso said, also sharing a message for his fans. “I love you, I appreciate everyone who’s been Yeeting with me. I really love all my fans.”
Uso spent several hours with attendees, hugging fans, taking photos, and signing merchandise inside of the Cricket store. Some had action figures and belts scrawled upon while others even had their own sneakers signed.
”I got here at 4:30 a.m., I left my house at 2:30 a.m.,” fan Marcus Cora said. “I have been a wrestling fan all of my life, it has kept my family together and I want my kids to love it too.”
