Gabe Wai is a former WWE wrestler, television personality, and fitness professional who has built his career on discipline, resilience, and adaptability. With a background in competitive athletics and a passion for helping others grow stronger both physically and mentally, he has expanded his journey beyond the ring into entertainment, sales, and personal development. Gabe Wai is currently featured on MTV’s The Challenge: Vets & New Threats, where he continues to showcase his determination, charisma, and competitive spirit.

Hi Gabe Wai! Tell us about who you are and where you are from.

Hello! I was originally raised in Corvallis, Oregon, and then moved to Orlando, Florida where I reside now!

How did you get your start in the entertainment industry, and how long have you been in the industry?

I got my start in the entertainment industry by signing with WWE back in 2022 after I got released from WWE. I ended up filming a low budget film and then took a break until I made my appearance on The Challenge.

What led you to choose this career path? What makes your story unique?

What led me to this career path was a unique opportunity with WWE and at the time it was a better opportunity than I was getting in professional sports.

How was the transition from professional rugby to professional wrestling?

The transition from professional rugby to professional wrestling was hard. It wasn’t easy. I felt like a lot of the time my body would move in the way of bracing for impact versus in wrestling. You can’t have that.

How was your experience on WWE NXT? What were some of the most memorable moments?

My experience on NXT was definitely life-changing – aspects that were really fun and challenged me to become a better person. I think some of my most memorable moments were when I was hanging around Lucien Price and Bronco Nima. I was really close with them and they were like my brothers, and we always would ride to events together while telling stories about our life.

Prior to MTV’s The Challenge, you appeared in the film, Beach Chain. How did you land and prepare for the role?

Beach Chain was a opportunity that was presented to me and I took it just because it seemed interesting, and I wanted more experience in the industry!

What led you to decide to become a reality television star?

I decided to go into the reality television industry after I left WWE. I interviewed for quite a few different opportunities. The reason why I wanted to do The Challenge so bad was because I watched it for years and I absolutely love the show, and I love challenging my body and competing!

How was your experience as a rookie competitor on The Challenge?

Being a rookie on The Challenge is hard. It’s definitely not a walk apart. It’s also hard for me because this was my first reality TV show, so navigating that was kind of difficult when it comes to staying out of drama, but I generally enjoyed my time. I think it was a great time, and I truly hope that I get to do it again!

What impact did your sports background have on the game?

My sports background definitely helped me compete just because I’m used to pushing my body in multiple different ways. Being a multisport professional athlete definitely helps, but it’s also fun in a way as well.

Do you have any role models that have guided your journey?

Yes, I do! Mark Long was a huge inspiration to me. Still is a huge inspiration to me, and then I would also say my sister as well. She has definitely been a big inspiration in my life and has inspired me to continuously go even when I feel like I can’t.

What words of advice do you have for people with similar aspirations?

I would say my advice for others would be always stay ready whatever type of dreams and aspirations. You may have make sure that you never give up on them. They’re definitely going to pay off one way or another. It just might not be on your timing and that’s OK!

Any other roles or upcoming projects that we should currently be on the lookout for from you?

As of right now, no, just continue to watch The Challenge every Wednesday night at 8 PM central to see the chaos carry on!

Where can we follow you on social media?

https://www.instagram.com/gabewaifit

https://www.tiktok.com/@gabrielwai99

Thank you for the great interview; wish you much continued success!