Costco Guy AJ ‘very grateful’ for AEW opportunity
AJ Francis, better known to fans as the “Costco Guy,” expressed immense gratitude for the opportunity to be part of All Elite Wrestling (AEW), marking a significant transition for the viral internet sensation. Francis, who initially gained popularity due to his energetic Costco dance videos, is now officially signed with AEW, promising a fresh chapter in his journey.
“I’m very grateful for this opportunity. It’s definitely a different life, it’s definitely a different environment,” Francis revealed during an interview, shedding light on his experience transitioning from online fame to a professional wrestling career. “It’s very much a business, so I appreciate the time that they took and the resources they put in to show me and educate me about this.”
Francis acknowledged the challenges he faced stepping into the world of professional wrestling, a stark contrast to his previous life of online content creation. “It is very different. I always loved the world of professional wrestling, but as a consumer, it was definitely different stepping into the world of professional wrestling from the standpoint of being in the business and behind the curtain,” he stated.
The 30-year-old Francis embraced the demanding training regimen, admitting to “going back to square one” with the guidance of AEW coaches and experienced wrestlers. “You gotta build yourself from the ground up again because it is such a specific world,” he acknowledged, emphasizing the rigorous physical and mental demands of the professional wrestling environment.
While Francis expressed appreciation for his online fame, he underscored his passion for wrestling, explaining that it was “always in my blood.” “That’s been one of my dream jobs,” he confided, expressing the desire to make a meaningful impact in the industry, rather than simply enjoying temporary online notoriety.
AEW offered a supportive platform for Francis’s aspirations. He emphasized the organization’s focus on building its roster from within, emphasizing its commitment to nurturing talent. “They want to help make the best stars possible, so it’s really inspiring to see,” he noted.
With the guidance of his coaches, particularly Dean Malenko, Francis dived into honing his in-ring skills, adapting to the physically demanding environment. “It’s very exciting,” he declared, highlighting his dedication to perfecting his wrestling techniques.
Despite his wrestling career being a fresh endeavor, Francis remained open to his viral “Costco Guy” identity, acknowledging its significance in his journey. “If anything, it gives people an idea of what I can do,” he pointed out, linking his enthusiastic persona to his passion for performing. He explained how the dancing, singing, and energetic nature of his viral videos align with his desire to bring entertainment to the world of professional wrestling.
“There’s a little bit of me in every character. There’s a little bit of me in everything that I do,” he added, hinting at the potential fusion of his two personas. “If it leads to entertainment, that’s what it’s all about.”
Francis’s entry into professional wrestling serves as a compelling example of embracing unconventional pathways to success. He demonstrated his unwavering dedication, leveraging his online presence to open doors to a lifelong dream. His transition from internet sensation to professional wrestler embodies a testament to his commitment to growth, emphasizing his genuine love for the sport.
