Scott Garland
Encyclopedia
Scott Ronald Garland is an American
professional wrestler
, better known by his ring name
, Scotty 2 Hotty. He is best known for his appearances with the World Wrestling Federation/Entertainment.
, but was unable to speak to McMahon directly.
Garland began attending shows at the Cumberland County Civic Center
in Portland, Maine
, helping the ring crew to construct the wrestling ring
. After an independent
promoter
saw Garland wrestling with his friends, he offered Garland a job. In his first match, Garland wrestled Steve Ramsey in a Portland armory
on November 23, 1989, the same night the Survivor Series
was taking place.
In the same year, Garland began wrestling for the Massachusetts
-based New England Wrestling
. In August 1991, Garland was introduced to the WWF by fellow NEW wrestler Phil Apollo
.
throughout his early tenure, and in 1994, he supplemented his income by working as a Fleet Bank
bank teller
and as the assistant manager of a Spencer's Gifts
outlet. He remained a prominent enhancement talent throughout the mid 1990s.
In 1997, Garland, now working for an insurance
company, planned to wrestle tryout matches for Extreme Championship Wrestling
. Upon hearing of his plans, Vice President of the WWF Talent Relations, Bruce Prichard
, signed him to a contract. Garland began wrestling in the burgeoning Light Heavyweight division as Scott Taylor. In late 1997, he took part in an eight-man tournament for the vacant Light Heavyweight Championship
, but was eliminated in the second round after being chokeslam
med by Kane.
, Taylor and "Too Sexy" Brian Christopher
teamed together for the first time, taking part in a tag team
battle royal
. Following WrestleMania XIV, Taylor and Christopher continued to team together on the WWF's syndicated Saturday wrestling shows, with Taylor playing the straight man
to Christopher's over-the-top, egotistical antics. Soon, Taylor adopted Christopher's flamboyant actions and in-ring mannerisms and became known as Scott "Too Hot" Taylor, with the duo dubbed "Too Much".
In May 1999, Taylor was renamed Scotty Too Hotty (later changed to Scotty 2 Hotty) and Christopher was renamed Grand Master Sexay. Collectively known as "Too Cool", Taylor and Christopher were given the characteristics of wigger
s, delivering raps
aimed at their opponents and parodying aspects of hip hop culture. Shortly after debuting their new characters, the team was temporarily separated after Christopher tore his anterior cruciate ligament
and was sidelined for three months. In late 1999, Too Cool aligned themselves with Rikishi Fatu
(whom they quickly renamed Rikishi Phatu), forming a faction. Following their matches, Too Cool and Rikishi would perform a dance routine in the center of the ring.
In early 2000, the group began feuding with The Radicalz
, culmintating with Too Cool teaming with Chyna to beat Eddie Guerrero
, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko
at WrestleMania 2000
. After Christopher re-injured his leg, Scotty briefly returned to the Light Heavyweight division, and on April 17, 2000, he defeated Radicalz member Dean Malenko to win the Light Heavyweight Championship. He held the title for only 10 days before dropping it back to Malenko on April 27, 2000. Scotty challenged Malenko for the title once more at Backlash, but was defeated. Christopher returned in mid-2000, and on May 29, 2000, Too Cool defeated Edge and Christian
to win the Tag Team Championship with the assistance of rapper Joe C.
They held the title until June 25, 2000, when Edge and Christian regained the title.
Too Cool and Rikishi separated in late 2000 after Rikishi was revealed to have run over
Steve Austin
. Rikishi subsequently easily defeating his former allies in a handicap match. In February 2001, the intervertebral disc
between Scotty's C6 and C7 vertebrae bulged, and he was forced to undergo surgery. His absence was explained that he suffered a (kayfabe
) broken ankle at the hands of Kurt Angle
. Whilst Scotty was recuperating, Christopher was released from the company for illegally conveying drugs
across the Canada–United States border.
Scott Ronald Garland (born July 2, 1973) is an American
professional wrestler
, better known by his ring name
, Scotty 2 Hotty. He is best known for his appearances with the World Wrestling Federation/Entertainment.
, but was unable to speak to McMahon directly.
Garland began attending shows at the Cumberland County Civic Center
in Portland, Maine
, helping the ring crew to construct the wrestling ring
. After an independent
promoter
saw Garland wrestling with his friends, he offered Garland a job. In his first match, Garland wrestled Steve Ramsey in a Portland armory
on November 23, 1989, the same night the Survivor Series
was taking place.
In the same year, Garland began wrestling for the Massachusetts
-based New England Wrestling
. In August 1991, Garland was introduced to the WWF by fellow NEW wrestler Phil Apollo
.
throughout his early tenure, and in 1994, he supplemented his income by working as a Fleet Bank
bank teller
and as the assistant manager of a Spencer's Gifts
outlet. He remained a prominent enhancement talent throughout the mid 1990s.
In 1997, Garland, now working for an insurance
company, planned to wrestle tryout matches for Extreme Championship Wrestling
. Upon hearing of his plans, Vice President of the WWF Talent Relations, Bruce Prichard
, signed him to a contract. Garland began wrestling in the burgeoning Light Heavyweight division as Scott Taylor. In late 1997, he took part in an eight-man tournament for the vacant Light Heavyweight Championship
, but was eliminated in the second round after being chokeslam
med by Kane.
, Taylor and "Too Sexy" Brian Christopher
teamed together for the first time, taking part in a tag team
battle royal
. Following WrestleMania XIV, Taylor and Christopher continued to team together on the WWF's syndicated Saturday wrestling shows, with Taylor playing the straight man
to Christopher's over-the-top, egotistical antics. Soon, Taylor adopted Christopher's flamboyant actions and in-ring mannerisms and became known as Scott "Too Hot" Taylor, with the duo dubbed "Too Much".
In May 1999, Taylor was renamed Scotty Too Hotty (later changed to Scotty 2 Hotty) and Christopher was renamed Grand Master Sexay. Collectively known as "Too Cool", Taylor and Christopher were given the characteristics of wigger
s, delivering raps
aimed at their opponents and parodying aspects of hip hop culture. Shortly after debuting their new characters, the team was temporarily separated after Christopher tore his anterior cruciate ligament
and was sidelined for three months. In late 1999, Too Cool aligned themselves with Rikishi Fatu
(whom they quickly renamed Rikishi Phatu), forming a faction. Following their matches, Too Cool and Rikishi would perform a dance routine in the center of the ring.
In early 2000, the group began feuding with The Radicalz
, culmintating with Too Cool teaming with Chyna to beat Eddie Guerrero
, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko
at WrestleMania 2000
. After Christopher re-injured his leg, Scotty briefly returned to the Light Heavyweight division, and on April 17, 2000, he defeated Radicalz member Dean Malenko to win the Light Heavyweight Championship. He held the title for only 10 days before dropping it back to Malenko on April 27, 2000. Scotty challenged Malenko for the title once more at Backlash, but was defeated. Christopher returned in mid-2000, and on May 29, 2000, Too Cool defeated Edge and Christian
to win the Tag Team Championship with the assistance of rapper Joe C.
They held the title until June 25, 2000, when Edge and Christian regained the title.
Too Cool and Rikishi separated in late 2000 after Rikishi was revealed to have run over
Steve Austin
. Rikishi subsequently easily defeating his former allies in a handicap match. In February 2001, the intervertebral disc
between Scotty's C6 and C7 vertebrae bulged, and he was forced to undergo surgery. His absence was explained that he suffered a (kayfabe
) broken ankle at the hands of Kurt Angle
. Whilst Scotty was recuperating, Christopher was released from the company for illegally conveying drugs
across the Canada–United States border.
Scott Ronald Garland (born July 2, 1973) is an American
professional wrestler
, better known by his ring name
, Scotty 2 Hotty. He is best known for his appearances with the World Wrestling Federation/Entertainment.
, but was unable to speak to McMahon directly.
Garland began attending shows at the Cumberland County Civic Center
in Portland, Maine
, helping the ring crew to construct the wrestling ring
. After an independent
promoter
saw Garland wrestling with his friends, he offered Garland a job. In his first match, Garland wrestled Steve Ramsey in a Portland armory
on November 23, 1989, the same night the Survivor Series
was taking place.
In the same year, Garland began wrestling for the Massachusetts
-based New England Wrestling
. In August 1991, Garland was introduced to the WWF by fellow NEW wrestler Phil Apollo
.
throughout his early tenure, and in 1994, he supplemented his income by working as a Fleet Bank
bank teller
and as the assistant manager of a Spencer's Gifts
outlet. He remained a prominent enhancement talent throughout the mid 1990s.
In 1997, Garland, now working for an insurance
company, planned to wrestle tryout matches for Extreme Championship Wrestling
. Upon hearing of his plans, Vice President of the WWF Talent Relations, Bruce Prichard
, signed him to a contract. Garland began wrestling in the burgeoning Light Heavyweight division as Scott Taylor. In late 1997, he took part in an eight-man tournament for the vacant Light Heavyweight Championship
, but was eliminated in the second round after being chokeslam
med by Kane.
, Taylor and "Too Sexy" Brian Christopher
teamed together for the first time, taking part in a tag team
battle royal
. Following WrestleMania XIV, Taylor and Christopher continued to team together on the WWF's syndicated Saturday wrestling shows, with Taylor playing the straight man
to Christopher's over-the-top, egotistical antics. Soon, Taylor adopted Christopher's flamboyant actions and in-ring mannerisms and became known as Scott "Too Hot" Taylor, with the duo dubbed "Too Much".
In May 1999, Taylor was renamed Scotty Too Hotty (later changed to Scotty 2 Hotty) and Christopher was renamed Grand Master Sexay. Collectively known as "Too Cool", Taylor and Christopher were given the characteristics of wigger
s, delivering raps
aimed at their opponents and parodying aspects of hip hop culture. Shortly after debuting their new characters, the team was temporarily separated after Christopher tore his anterior cruciate ligament
and was sidelined for three months. In late 1999, Too Cool aligned themselves with Rikishi Fatu
(whom they quickly renamed Rikishi Phatu), forming a faction. Following their matches, Too Cool and Rikishi would perform a dance routine in the center of the ring.
In early 2000, the group began feuding with The Radicalz
, culmintating with Too Cool teaming with Chyna to beat Eddie Guerrero
, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko
at WrestleMania 2000
. After Christopher re-injured his leg, Scotty briefly returned to the Light Heavyweight division, and on April 17, 2000, he defeated Radicalz member Dean Malenko to win the Light Heavyweight Championship. He held the title for only 10 days before dropping it back to Malenko on April 27, 2000. Scotty challenged Malenko for the title once more at Backlash, but was defeated. Christopher returned in mid-2000, and on May 29, 2000, Too Cool defeated Edge and Christian
to win the Tag Team Championship with the assistance of rapper Joe C.
They held the title until June 25, 2000, when Edge and Christian regained the title.
Too Cool and Rikishi separated in late 2000 after Rikishi was revealed to have run over
Steve Austin
. Rikishi subsequently easily defeating his former allies in a handicap match. In February 2001, the intervertebral disc
between Scotty's C6 and C7 vertebrae bulged, and he was forced to undergo surgery. His absence was explained that he suffered a (kayfabe
) broken ankle at the hands of Kurt Angle
. Whilst Scotty was recuperating, Christopher was released from the company for illegally conveying drugs
across the Canada–United States border.
Scotty spent 17 months recuperating, returning to the ring in April 2003 and to television in October 2003. Wrestling on the SmackDown! brand
, Scotty formed a tag team with his former ally Rikishi. Together, they competed in the tag team division and ultimately defeated the Basham Brothers
to win the WWE Tag Team Championship
on February 5, 2004. Scotty and Rikishi successfully defended their titles in a four way tag team match at WrestleMania XX
. Their reign ended on April 22, 2004 when they were defeated by Charlie Haas
and Rico
. On July 16, 2004, WWE released Rikishi, leaving Scotty on his own.
After Rikishi's release, Scotty wrestled mainly on Velocity
and in dark matches until early 2007. In April 2007 he returned briefly to the Raw roster, competing in a handful of matches on WWE Heat
. He was released from the company on May 18, 2007.
On December 10, 2007, Scotty returned to WWE for one night only, during Raw
", and was among the final four wrestlers before being eliminated by Skinner
.
. In May 2008, Scotty wrestled two matches for Full Impact Pro
, teaming with Delirious
to defeat The Young, Rich, and Ready For Action (Sal Rinauro
and Chasyn Rance), and defeating Davey Richards
in a singles match.
In June 2008, Scotty appeared at the CLASH Wrestling's NPCI tournament, in which the promotion's first World Tag Champions would be crowned, and teamed with CLASH Champion Cameron Skyy. The team lost in the first round to Tommy Tydie and J. Miller. On October 3, 2008, Scotty teamed with Owen Graichen in a loss to Fred Curry and Chris Venom in which the loser of the fall was (in storyline
) forced to leave Eastern Pro Wrestling for 60 days. Due to being the wrestler pinned, Scotty had to leave the promotion.
On October 17, 2009, Scotty won the Coastal Championship Wrestling Heavyweight Championship after defeating then-champion Dok Rivers.
outlet in Windham, Maine
. He and his wife currently live in Orlando, Florida
, and have three children: a daughter named Taylor and two sons. Garland is a Walt Disney World
aficionado, and owns a season pass to the park.
Garland appeared in-character, alongside Kid Kash in the December 2009 video for the Irish band, Fight Like Apes' single "Do You Karate". In 2010, he completed filming a movie called Ultimate Death Match 3, which also featured other wrestlers.
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
professional wrestler
Professional wrestling
Professional wrestling is a mode of spectacle, combining athletics and theatrical performance.Roland Barthes, "The World of Wrestling", Mythologies, 1957 It takes the form of events, held by touring companies, which mimic a title match combat sport...
, better known by his ring name
Ring name
A ring name is a stage name used by a professional wrestler, martial artist, or boxer. While some ring names may have a fictitious first name and surname, others may simply be a nickname, such as The Undertaker.-Wrestling:...
, Scotty 2 Hotty. He is best known for his appearances with the World Wrestling Federation/Entertainment.
Training
When approximately 14 or 15 years old, Garland wrote to Sue Aitchison, the Community Relations Specialist of the World Wrestling Federation, inquiring from which professional wrestling school the company recruited the majority of their employees. Aitchison responded by telling him that they did not recruit from any particular school and wishing him luck. Garland then attempted to telephone Vince McMahonVince McMahon
Vincent Kennedy "Vince" McMahon is an American professional wrestling promoter, announcer, commentator, film producer, actor and former occasional professional wrestler. McMahon is the current Chairman, CEO and Chairman of the Executive Committee of professional wrestling promotion WWE...
, but was unable to speak to McMahon directly.
Garland began attending shows at the Cumberland County Civic Center
Cumberland County Civic Center
The Cumberland County Civic Center is a 6,733-seat multi-purpose arena, in Portland, Maine. Built in 1977, at a cost of $8 million, it is home to the Portland Pirates ice hockey team, various trade shows and the Maine Principals' Association high school basketball tournament...
in Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine
Portland is the largest city in Maine and is the county seat of Cumberland County. The 2010 city population was 66,194, growing 3 percent since the census of 2000...
, helping the ring crew to construct the wrestling ring
Wrestling ring
A wrestling ring is the ring stage on which professional wrestlers wrestle.-Configuration and construction:The configuration and construction of the "traditional" ring is very similar to that of a boxing ring, though the wrestling version has three ring ropes...
. After an independent
Independent circuit
In professional wrestling, the independent circuit or indy circuit refers to the many independent promotions which are much smaller than major televised promotions. They are roughly analagous to a minor league for pro wrestling, or community or regional theatre.Specific promotions on the...
promoter
Professional wrestling promotion
A professional wrestling promotion is a company or business that regularly performs shows involving professional wrestling. Promotion also describes a role which entails management, advertising and logistics of running a wrestling event...
saw Garland wrestling with his friends, he offered Garland a job. In his first match, Garland wrestled Steve Ramsey in a Portland armory
Armory (military)
An armory or armoury is a place where arms and ammunition are made, maintained and repaired, stored, issued to authorized users, or any combination of those...
on November 23, 1989, the same night the Survivor Series
Survivor Series (1989)
Survivor Series was the third annual Survivor Series professional wrestling pay-per-view event produced by the World Wrestling Federation . It took place on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 1989 at the Rosemont Horizon in Rosemont, Illinois. This was the first Survivor Series event to feature team...
was taking place.
In the same year, Garland began wrestling for the Massachusetts
Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
-based New England Wrestling
Top Rope Promotions
Top Rope Promotions, formerly known as Yankee Pro Wrestling, is a Northeastern independent professional wrestling promotion based in New Bedford, Massachusetts and is the largest promotion in the southern New England-area rivaling other Northeastern promotions including Chaotic Wrestling, the...
. In August 1991, Garland was introduced to the WWF by fellow NEW wrestler Phil Apollo
Phil Apollo
Phil Panos, known by his ringname Phil Apollo, is an American professional wrestler who competed in North American independent wrestling promotions including International World Class Championship Wrestling and World Class Championship Wrestling...
.
Early appearances
Garland made his first appearance in October 1991, teaming with Sonny Blaze and using Scott Taylor as his ring name. Garland continued to attend collegeCollege
A college is an educational institution or a constituent part of an educational institution. Usage varies in English-speaking nations...
throughout his early tenure, and in 1994, he supplemented his income by working as a Fleet Bank
FleetBoston Financial
FleetBoston Financial was a Boston, Massachusetts–based bank created in 1999 by the merger of Fleet Financial Group and BankBoston. In 2004 it merged with Bank of America; all of its banks and branches were given the Bank of America logo.-History:...
bank teller
Bank teller
A teller is an employee of a bank who deals directly with most customers. In some places, this employee is known as a cashier. Most teller jobs require cash handling experience and a high school diploma. Most banks provide on the job training....
and as the assistant manager of a Spencer's Gifts
Spencer's Gifts
Spencer Gifts, commonly referred to as Spencer's, is a North American mall retailer.Spencer Gifts has stores in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.Spencer's target demographic is the 18- to 25-year-old...
outlet. He remained a prominent enhancement talent throughout the mid 1990s.
In 1997, Garland, now working for an insurance
Insurance
In law and economics, insurance is a form of risk management primarily used to hedge against the risk of a contingent, uncertain loss. Insurance is defined as the equitable transfer of the risk of a loss, from one entity to another, in exchange for payment. An insurer is a company selling the...
company, planned to wrestle tryout matches for Extreme Championship Wrestling
Extreme Championship Wrestling
Extreme Championship Wrestling was a professional wrestling promotion that was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1992 by Tod Gordon and closed when his successor, Paul Heyman, declared bankruptcy in April 2001...
. Upon hearing of his plans, Vice President of the WWF Talent Relations, Bruce Prichard
Bruce Prichard
Bruce Prichard is a professional wrestling personality, best known as a manager and producer for World Wrestling Entertainment , where he portrayed Brother Love, the original manager of The Undertaker...
, signed him to a contract. Garland began wrestling in the burgeoning Light Heavyweight division as Scott Taylor. In late 1997, he took part in an eight-man tournament for the vacant Light Heavyweight Championship
WWF Light Heavyweight Championship
The World Wrestling Federation Light Heavyweight Championship was a professional wrestling championship. The title was challenged by light heavyweights at a maximum weight of 220 lbs.- History :...
, but was eliminated in the second round after being chokeslam
Chokeslam
A chokeslam refers to a type of body slam in professional wrestling in which the wrestler grasps their opponent's neck, lifts them up, and slams them to the mat. It is common in televised wrestling because it is simple and relatively safe, yet looks powerful on camera...
med by Kane.
Too Cool
On March 29, 1998 at WrestleMania XIVWrestleMania XIV
WrestleMania XIV was the fourteenth annual WrestleMania professional wrestling pay-per-view event produced by the World Wrestling Federation , which took place on March 29, 1998 at the FleetCenter in Boston, Massachusetts....
, Taylor and "Too Sexy" Brian Christopher
Brian Lawler
Brian Christopher Lawler is a professional wrestler. He is the son of color commentator and professional wrestler Jerry "The King" Lawler and brother of wrestling referee Kevin Christian...
teamed together for the first time, taking part in a tag team
Tag team
Tag team professional wrestling is a variation in which matches are contested between teams of multiple wrestlers. A tag team may comprise two wrestlers who normally wrestle in singles competition, but more commonly are made of established teams who wrestle regularly as a unit and have a team name...
battle royal
Battle royal (professional wrestling)
In professional wrestling, a battle royal is a multi-competitor match type in which wrestlers are eliminated until one is left and declared winner...
. Following WrestleMania XIV, Taylor and Christopher continued to team together on the WWF's syndicated Saturday wrestling shows, with Taylor playing the straight man
Double act
A double act, also known as a comedy duo, is a comic pairing in which humor is derived from the uneven relationship between two partners, usually of the same gender, age, ethnic origin and profession, but drastically different personalities or behavior...
to Christopher's over-the-top, egotistical antics. Soon, Taylor adopted Christopher's flamboyant actions and in-ring mannerisms and became known as Scott "Too Hot" Taylor, with the duo dubbed "Too Much".
In May 1999, Taylor was renamed Scotty Too Hotty (later changed to Scotty 2 Hotty) and Christopher was renamed Grand Master Sexay. Collectively known as "Too Cool", Taylor and Christopher were given the characteristics of wigger
Wigger
Wigger is a pejorative slang term for a white person who emulates mannerisms, language, and fashions associated with African-American culture, particularly hip hop in the United States or the Grime/Garage scene in Britain. The term is a portmanteau of either wannabe or white and nigger...
s, delivering raps
Rapping
Rapping refers to "spoken or chanted rhyming lyrics". The art form can be broken down into different components, as in the book How to Rap where it is separated into “content”, “flow” , and “delivery”...
aimed at their opponents and parodying aspects of hip hop culture. Shortly after debuting their new characters, the team was temporarily separated after Christopher tore his anterior cruciate ligament
Anterior cruciate ligament
The anterior cruciate ligament is a cruciate ligament which is one of the four major ligaments of the human knee. In the quadruped stifle , based on its anatomical position, it is referred to as the cranial cruciate ligament.The ACL originates from deep within the notch of the distal femur...
and was sidelined for three months. In late 1999, Too Cool aligned themselves with Rikishi Fatu
Solofa Fatu
Solofa F. Fatu, Jr. is an American professional wrestler, best known under the ring name Rikishi.-The Samoan Swat Team:...
(whom they quickly renamed Rikishi Phatu), forming a faction. Following their matches, Too Cool and Rikishi would perform a dance routine in the center of the ring.
In early 2000, the group began feuding with The Radicalz
The Radicalz
The Radicalz were a professional wrestling stable in the World Wrestling Federation . Their members were former World Championship Wrestling performers Chris Benoit, Eddie Guerrero, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko. Terri Runnels later joined the group by proxy after becoming Saturn's onscreen...
, culmintating with Too Cool teaming with Chyna to beat Eddie Guerrero
Eddie Guerrero
Eduardo Gory "Eddie" Guerrero was a Mexican-American professional wrestler born into the Guerrero wrestling family. He wrestled in Mexico and Japan for several major professional wrestling promotions...
, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko
Dean Malenko
Dean Simon is a retired professional wrestler, better known by his ring name Dean Malenko. He is currently signed to WWE working as a road agent. He is best known for his time with Extreme Championship Wrestling , New Japan Pro Wrestling and World Championship Wrestling...
at WrestleMania 2000
WrestleMania 2000
WrestleMania 2000 was the sixteenth annual WrestleMania professional wrestling pay-per-view produced by the World Wrestling Federation . It took place on April 2, 2000 at the Arrowhead Pond in Anaheim, California...
. After Christopher re-injured his leg, Scotty briefly returned to the Light Heavyweight division, and on April 17, 2000, he defeated Radicalz member Dean Malenko to win the Light Heavyweight Championship. He held the title for only 10 days before dropping it back to Malenko on April 27, 2000. Scotty challenged Malenko for the title once more at Backlash, but was defeated. Christopher returned in mid-2000, and on May 29, 2000, Too Cool defeated Edge and Christian
Edge and Christian
Edge and Christian was a tag team made of real life best friends Edge and Christian , who performed in WWE and the Canadian independent circuit. They won the WWF Tag Team Championship on seven occasions...
to win the Tag Team Championship with the assistance of rapper Joe C.
Joe C.
Joseph "Joe C." Calleja was an American rapper and musician. His popularity and fame were based on his relationship as hype man and comic relief for fellow rapper Kid Rock.-Condition:Calleja was born in Taylor, Michigan...
They held the title until June 25, 2000, when Edge and Christian regained the title.
Car accident
A traffic collision, also known as a traffic accident, motor vehicle collision, motor vehicle accident, car accident, automobile accident, Road Traffic Collision or car crash, occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, road debris, or other stationary obstruction,...
Steve Austin
Stone Cold Steve Austin
Steve Austin , better known by his ring name "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, is an American film and television actor and retired professional wrestler...
. Rikishi subsequently easily defeating his former allies in a handicap match. In February 2001, the intervertebral disc
Intervertebral disc
Intervertebral discs lie between adjacent vertebrae in the spine. Each disc forms a cartilaginous joint to allow slight movement of the vertebrae, and acts as a ligament to hold the vertebrae together.-Structure:...
between Scotty's C6 and C7 vertebrae bulged, and he was forced to undergo surgery. His absence was explained that he suffered a (kayfabe
Kayfabe
In professional wrestling, kayfabe is the portrayal of events within the industry as "real" or "true". Specifically, the portrayal of professional wrestling, in particular the competition and rivalries between participants, as being genuine or not of a worked nature...
) broken ankle at the hands of Kurt Angle
Kurt Angle
Kurt Steven Angle is an American professional wrestler, amateur wrestler, and 1996 Olympic gold medalist. He is currently under contract with Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, where he is recognized as a 15-time World Heavyweight Champion...
. Whilst Scotty was recuperating, Christopher was released from the company for illegally conveying drugs
Illegal drug trade
The illegal drug trade is a global black market, dedicated to cultivation, manufacture, distribution and sale of those substances which are subject to drug prohibition laws. Most jurisdictions prohibit trade, except under license, of many types of drugs by drug prohibition laws.A UN report said the...
across the Canada–United States border.
Various tag teams and departure
Scotty returned to the ring in June 2001, taking part in the rivalry between Team WWF and The Alliance. During this time, he formed a tag team with Albert, who subsequently adopted the nickname "The Hip Hop Hippo", and they collectively became known as the "Zoo Crew". The team competed in the tag team division until April 2002, when Albert betrayed Scotty by attacking him.Scott Ronald Garland (born July 2, 1973) is an American
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
professional wrestler
Professional wrestling
Professional wrestling is a mode of spectacle, combining athletics and theatrical performance.Roland Barthes, "The World of Wrestling", Mythologies, 1957 It takes the form of events, held by touring companies, which mimic a title match combat sport...
, better known by his ring name
Ring name
A ring name is a stage name used by a professional wrestler, martial artist, or boxer. While some ring names may have a fictitious first name and surname, others may simply be a nickname, such as The Undertaker.-Wrestling:...
, Scotty 2 Hotty. He is best known for his appearances with the World Wrestling Federation/Entertainment.
Training
When approximately 14 or 15 years old, Garland wrote to Sue Aitchison, the Community Relations Specialist of the World Wrestling Federation, inquiring from which professional wrestling school the company recruited the majority of their employees. Aitchison responded by telling him that they did not recruit from any particular school and wishing him luck. Garland then attempted to telephone Vince McMahonVince McMahon
Vincent Kennedy "Vince" McMahon is an American professional wrestling promoter, announcer, commentator, film producer, actor and former occasional professional wrestler. McMahon is the current Chairman, CEO and Chairman of the Executive Committee of professional wrestling promotion WWE...
, but was unable to speak to McMahon directly.
Garland began attending shows at the Cumberland County Civic Center
Cumberland County Civic Center
The Cumberland County Civic Center is a 6,733-seat multi-purpose arena, in Portland, Maine. Built in 1977, at a cost of $8 million, it is home to the Portland Pirates ice hockey team, various trade shows and the Maine Principals' Association high school basketball tournament...
in Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine
Portland is the largest city in Maine and is the county seat of Cumberland County. The 2010 city population was 66,194, growing 3 percent since the census of 2000...
, helping the ring crew to construct the wrestling ring
Wrestling ring
A wrestling ring is the ring stage on which professional wrestlers wrestle.-Configuration and construction:The configuration and construction of the "traditional" ring is very similar to that of a boxing ring, though the wrestling version has three ring ropes...
. After an independent
Independent circuit
In professional wrestling, the independent circuit or indy circuit refers to the many independent promotions which are much smaller than major televised promotions. They are roughly analagous to a minor league for pro wrestling, or community or regional theatre.Specific promotions on the...
promoter
Professional wrestling promotion
A professional wrestling promotion is a company or business that regularly performs shows involving professional wrestling. Promotion also describes a role which entails management, advertising and logistics of running a wrestling event...
saw Garland wrestling with his friends, he offered Garland a job. In his first match, Garland wrestled Steve Ramsey in a Portland armory
Armory (military)
An armory or armoury is a place where arms and ammunition are made, maintained and repaired, stored, issued to authorized users, or any combination of those...
on November 23, 1989, the same night the Survivor Series
Survivor Series (1989)
Survivor Series was the third annual Survivor Series professional wrestling pay-per-view event produced by the World Wrestling Federation . It took place on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 1989 at the Rosemont Horizon in Rosemont, Illinois. This was the first Survivor Series event to feature team...
was taking place.
In the same year, Garland began wrestling for the Massachusetts
Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
-based New England Wrestling
Top Rope Promotions
Top Rope Promotions, formerly known as Yankee Pro Wrestling, is a Northeastern independent professional wrestling promotion based in New Bedford, Massachusetts and is the largest promotion in the southern New England-area rivaling other Northeastern promotions including Chaotic Wrestling, the...
. In August 1991, Garland was introduced to the WWF by fellow NEW wrestler Phil Apollo
Phil Apollo
Phil Panos, known by his ringname Phil Apollo, is an American professional wrestler who competed in North American independent wrestling promotions including International World Class Championship Wrestling and World Class Championship Wrestling...
.
Early appearances
Garland made his first appearance in October 1991, teaming with Sonny Blaze and using Scott Taylor as his ring name. Garland continued to attend collegeCollege
A college is an educational institution or a constituent part of an educational institution. Usage varies in English-speaking nations...
throughout his early tenure, and in 1994, he supplemented his income by working as a Fleet Bank
FleetBoston Financial
FleetBoston Financial was a Boston, Massachusetts–based bank created in 1999 by the merger of Fleet Financial Group and BankBoston. In 2004 it merged with Bank of America; all of its banks and branches were given the Bank of America logo.-History:...
bank teller
Bank teller
A teller is an employee of a bank who deals directly with most customers. In some places, this employee is known as a cashier. Most teller jobs require cash handling experience and a high school diploma. Most banks provide on the job training....
and as the assistant manager of a Spencer's Gifts
Spencer's Gifts
Spencer Gifts, commonly referred to as Spencer's, is a North American mall retailer.Spencer Gifts has stores in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.Spencer's target demographic is the 18- to 25-year-old...
outlet. He remained a prominent enhancement talent throughout the mid 1990s.
In 1997, Garland, now working for an insurance
Insurance
In law and economics, insurance is a form of risk management primarily used to hedge against the risk of a contingent, uncertain loss. Insurance is defined as the equitable transfer of the risk of a loss, from one entity to another, in exchange for payment. An insurer is a company selling the...
company, planned to wrestle tryout matches for Extreme Championship Wrestling
Extreme Championship Wrestling
Extreme Championship Wrestling was a professional wrestling promotion that was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1992 by Tod Gordon and closed when his successor, Paul Heyman, declared bankruptcy in April 2001...
. Upon hearing of his plans, Vice President of the WWF Talent Relations, Bruce Prichard
Bruce Prichard
Bruce Prichard is a professional wrestling personality, best known as a manager and producer for World Wrestling Entertainment , where he portrayed Brother Love, the original manager of The Undertaker...
, signed him to a contract. Garland began wrestling in the burgeoning Light Heavyweight division as Scott Taylor. In late 1997, he took part in an eight-man tournament for the vacant Light Heavyweight Championship
WWF Light Heavyweight Championship
The World Wrestling Federation Light Heavyweight Championship was a professional wrestling championship. The title was challenged by light heavyweights at a maximum weight of 220 lbs.- History :...
, but was eliminated in the second round after being chokeslam
Chokeslam
A chokeslam refers to a type of body slam in professional wrestling in which the wrestler grasps their opponent's neck, lifts them up, and slams them to the mat. It is common in televised wrestling because it is simple and relatively safe, yet looks powerful on camera...
med by Kane.
Too Cool
On March 29, 1998 at WrestleMania XIVWrestleMania XIV
WrestleMania XIV was the fourteenth annual WrestleMania professional wrestling pay-per-view event produced by the World Wrestling Federation , which took place on March 29, 1998 at the FleetCenter in Boston, Massachusetts....
, Taylor and "Too Sexy" Brian Christopher
Brian Lawler
Brian Christopher Lawler is a professional wrestler. He is the son of color commentator and professional wrestler Jerry "The King" Lawler and brother of wrestling referee Kevin Christian...
teamed together for the first time, taking part in a tag team
Tag team
Tag team professional wrestling is a variation in which matches are contested between teams of multiple wrestlers. A tag team may comprise two wrestlers who normally wrestle in singles competition, but more commonly are made of established teams who wrestle regularly as a unit and have a team name...
battle royal
Battle royal (professional wrestling)
In professional wrestling, a battle royal is a multi-competitor match type in which wrestlers are eliminated until one is left and declared winner...
. Following WrestleMania XIV, Taylor and Christopher continued to team together on the WWF's syndicated Saturday wrestling shows, with Taylor playing the straight man
Double act
A double act, also known as a comedy duo, is a comic pairing in which humor is derived from the uneven relationship between two partners, usually of the same gender, age, ethnic origin and profession, but drastically different personalities or behavior...
to Christopher's over-the-top, egotistical antics. Soon, Taylor adopted Christopher's flamboyant actions and in-ring mannerisms and became known as Scott "Too Hot" Taylor, with the duo dubbed "Too Much".
In May 1999, Taylor was renamed Scotty Too Hotty (later changed to Scotty 2 Hotty) and Christopher was renamed Grand Master Sexay. Collectively known as "Too Cool", Taylor and Christopher were given the characteristics of wigger
Wigger
Wigger is a pejorative slang term for a white person who emulates mannerisms, language, and fashions associated with African-American culture, particularly hip hop in the United States or the Grime/Garage scene in Britain. The term is a portmanteau of either wannabe or white and nigger...
s, delivering raps
Rapping
Rapping refers to "spoken or chanted rhyming lyrics". The art form can be broken down into different components, as in the book How to Rap where it is separated into “content”, “flow” , and “delivery”...
aimed at their opponents and parodying aspects of hip hop culture. Shortly after debuting their new characters, the team was temporarily separated after Christopher tore his anterior cruciate ligament
Anterior cruciate ligament
The anterior cruciate ligament is a cruciate ligament which is one of the four major ligaments of the human knee. In the quadruped stifle , based on its anatomical position, it is referred to as the cranial cruciate ligament.The ACL originates from deep within the notch of the distal femur...
and was sidelined for three months. In late 1999, Too Cool aligned themselves with Rikishi Fatu
Solofa Fatu
Solofa F. Fatu, Jr. is an American professional wrestler, best known under the ring name Rikishi.-The Samoan Swat Team:...
(whom they quickly renamed Rikishi Phatu), forming a faction. Following their matches, Too Cool and Rikishi would perform a dance routine in the center of the ring.
In early 2000, the group began feuding with The Radicalz
The Radicalz
The Radicalz were a professional wrestling stable in the World Wrestling Federation . Their members were former World Championship Wrestling performers Chris Benoit, Eddie Guerrero, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko. Terri Runnels later joined the group by proxy after becoming Saturn's onscreen...
, culmintating with Too Cool teaming with Chyna to beat Eddie Guerrero
Eddie Guerrero
Eduardo Gory "Eddie" Guerrero was a Mexican-American professional wrestler born into the Guerrero wrestling family. He wrestled in Mexico and Japan for several major professional wrestling promotions...
, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko
Dean Malenko
Dean Simon is a retired professional wrestler, better known by his ring name Dean Malenko. He is currently signed to WWE working as a road agent. He is best known for his time with Extreme Championship Wrestling , New Japan Pro Wrestling and World Championship Wrestling...
at WrestleMania 2000
WrestleMania 2000
WrestleMania 2000 was the sixteenth annual WrestleMania professional wrestling pay-per-view produced by the World Wrestling Federation . It took place on April 2, 2000 at the Arrowhead Pond in Anaheim, California...
. After Christopher re-injured his leg, Scotty briefly returned to the Light Heavyweight division, and on April 17, 2000, he defeated Radicalz member Dean Malenko to win the Light Heavyweight Championship. He held the title for only 10 days before dropping it back to Malenko on April 27, 2000. Scotty challenged Malenko for the title once more at Backlash, but was defeated. Christopher returned in mid-2000, and on May 29, 2000, Too Cool defeated Edge and Christian
Edge and Christian
Edge and Christian was a tag team made of real life best friends Edge and Christian , who performed in WWE and the Canadian independent circuit. They won the WWF Tag Team Championship on seven occasions...
to win the Tag Team Championship with the assistance of rapper Joe C.
Joe C.
Joseph "Joe C." Calleja was an American rapper and musician. His popularity and fame were based on his relationship as hype man and comic relief for fellow rapper Kid Rock.-Condition:Calleja was born in Taylor, Michigan...
They held the title until June 25, 2000, when Edge and Christian regained the title.
Car accident
A traffic collision, also known as a traffic accident, motor vehicle collision, motor vehicle accident, car accident, automobile accident, Road Traffic Collision or car crash, occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, road debris, or other stationary obstruction,...
Steve Austin
Stone Cold Steve Austin
Steve Austin , better known by his ring name "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, is an American film and television actor and retired professional wrestler...
. Rikishi subsequently easily defeating his former allies in a handicap match. In February 2001, the intervertebral disc
Intervertebral disc
Intervertebral discs lie between adjacent vertebrae in the spine. Each disc forms a cartilaginous joint to allow slight movement of the vertebrae, and acts as a ligament to hold the vertebrae together.-Structure:...
between Scotty's C6 and C7 vertebrae bulged, and he was forced to undergo surgery. His absence was explained that he suffered a (kayfabe
Kayfabe
In professional wrestling, kayfabe is the portrayal of events within the industry as "real" or "true". Specifically, the portrayal of professional wrestling, in particular the competition and rivalries between participants, as being genuine or not of a worked nature...
) broken ankle at the hands of Kurt Angle
Kurt Angle
Kurt Steven Angle is an American professional wrestler, amateur wrestler, and 1996 Olympic gold medalist. He is currently under contract with Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, where he is recognized as a 15-time World Heavyweight Champion...
. Whilst Scotty was recuperating, Christopher was released from the company for illegally conveying drugs
Illegal drug trade
The illegal drug trade is a global black market, dedicated to cultivation, manufacture, distribution and sale of those substances which are subject to drug prohibition laws. Most jurisdictions prohibit trade, except under license, of many types of drugs by drug prohibition laws.A UN report said the...
across the Canada–United States border.
Various tag teams and departure
Scotty returned to the ring in June 2001, taking part in the rivalry between Team WWF and The Alliance. During this time, he formed a tag team with Albert, who subsequently adopted the nickname "The Hip Hop Hippo", and they collectively became known as the "Zoo Crew". The team competed in the tag team division until April 2002, when Albert betrayed Scotty by attacking him.Scott Ronald Garland (born July 2, 1973) is an American
United States
The United States of America is a federal constitutional republic comprising fifty states and a federal district...
professional wrestler
Professional wrestling
Professional wrestling is a mode of spectacle, combining athletics and theatrical performance.Roland Barthes, "The World of Wrestling", Mythologies, 1957 It takes the form of events, held by touring companies, which mimic a title match combat sport...
, better known by his ring name
Ring name
A ring name is a stage name used by a professional wrestler, martial artist, or boxer. While some ring names may have a fictitious first name and surname, others may simply be a nickname, such as The Undertaker.-Wrestling:...
, Scotty 2 Hotty. He is best known for his appearances with the World Wrestling Federation/Entertainment.
Training
When approximately 14 or 15 years old, Garland wrote to Sue Aitchison, the Community Relations Specialist of the World Wrestling Federation, inquiring from which professional wrestling school the company recruited the majority of their employees. Aitchison responded by telling him that they did not recruit from any particular school and wishing him luck. Garland then attempted to telephone Vince McMahonVince McMahon
Vincent Kennedy "Vince" McMahon is an American professional wrestling promoter, announcer, commentator, film producer, actor and former occasional professional wrestler. McMahon is the current Chairman, CEO and Chairman of the Executive Committee of professional wrestling promotion WWE...
, but was unable to speak to McMahon directly.
Garland began attending shows at the Cumberland County Civic Center
Cumberland County Civic Center
The Cumberland County Civic Center is a 6,733-seat multi-purpose arena, in Portland, Maine. Built in 1977, at a cost of $8 million, it is home to the Portland Pirates ice hockey team, various trade shows and the Maine Principals' Association high school basketball tournament...
in Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine
Portland is the largest city in Maine and is the county seat of Cumberland County. The 2010 city population was 66,194, growing 3 percent since the census of 2000...
, helping the ring crew to construct the wrestling ring
Wrestling ring
A wrestling ring is the ring stage on which professional wrestlers wrestle.-Configuration and construction:The configuration and construction of the "traditional" ring is very similar to that of a boxing ring, though the wrestling version has three ring ropes...
. After an independent
Independent circuit
In professional wrestling, the independent circuit or indy circuit refers to the many independent promotions which are much smaller than major televised promotions. They are roughly analagous to a minor league for pro wrestling, or community or regional theatre.Specific promotions on the...
promoter
Professional wrestling promotion
A professional wrestling promotion is a company or business that regularly performs shows involving professional wrestling. Promotion also describes a role which entails management, advertising and logistics of running a wrestling event...
saw Garland wrestling with his friends, he offered Garland a job. In his first match, Garland wrestled Steve Ramsey in a Portland armory
Armory (military)
An armory or armoury is a place where arms and ammunition are made, maintained and repaired, stored, issued to authorized users, or any combination of those...
on November 23, 1989, the same night the Survivor Series
Survivor Series (1989)
Survivor Series was the third annual Survivor Series professional wrestling pay-per-view event produced by the World Wrestling Federation . It took place on Thanksgiving Day, November 23, 1989 at the Rosemont Horizon in Rosemont, Illinois. This was the first Survivor Series event to feature team...
was taking place.
In the same year, Garland began wrestling for the Massachusetts
Massachusetts
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is a state in the New England region of the northeastern United States of America. It is bordered by Rhode Island and Connecticut to the south, New York to the west, and Vermont and New Hampshire to the north; at its east lies the Atlantic Ocean. As of the 2010...
-based New England Wrestling
Top Rope Promotions
Top Rope Promotions, formerly known as Yankee Pro Wrestling, is a Northeastern independent professional wrestling promotion based in New Bedford, Massachusetts and is the largest promotion in the southern New England-area rivaling other Northeastern promotions including Chaotic Wrestling, the...
. In August 1991, Garland was introduced to the WWF by fellow NEW wrestler Phil Apollo
Phil Apollo
Phil Panos, known by his ringname Phil Apollo, is an American professional wrestler who competed in North American independent wrestling promotions including International World Class Championship Wrestling and World Class Championship Wrestling...
.
Early appearances
Garland made his first appearance in October 1991, teaming with Sonny Blaze and using Scott Taylor as his ring name. Garland continued to attend collegeCollege
A college is an educational institution or a constituent part of an educational institution. Usage varies in English-speaking nations...
throughout his early tenure, and in 1994, he supplemented his income by working as a Fleet Bank
FleetBoston Financial
FleetBoston Financial was a Boston, Massachusetts–based bank created in 1999 by the merger of Fleet Financial Group and BankBoston. In 2004 it merged with Bank of America; all of its banks and branches were given the Bank of America logo.-History:...
bank teller
Bank teller
A teller is an employee of a bank who deals directly with most customers. In some places, this employee is known as a cashier. Most teller jobs require cash handling experience and a high school diploma. Most banks provide on the job training....
and as the assistant manager of a Spencer's Gifts
Spencer's Gifts
Spencer Gifts, commonly referred to as Spencer's, is a North American mall retailer.Spencer Gifts has stores in the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico.Spencer's target demographic is the 18- to 25-year-old...
outlet. He remained a prominent enhancement talent throughout the mid 1990s.
In 1997, Garland, now working for an insurance
Insurance
In law and economics, insurance is a form of risk management primarily used to hedge against the risk of a contingent, uncertain loss. Insurance is defined as the equitable transfer of the risk of a loss, from one entity to another, in exchange for payment. An insurer is a company selling the...
company, planned to wrestle tryout matches for Extreme Championship Wrestling
Extreme Championship Wrestling
Extreme Championship Wrestling was a professional wrestling promotion that was founded in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1992 by Tod Gordon and closed when his successor, Paul Heyman, declared bankruptcy in April 2001...
. Upon hearing of his plans, Vice President of the WWF Talent Relations, Bruce Prichard
Bruce Prichard
Bruce Prichard is a professional wrestling personality, best known as a manager and producer for World Wrestling Entertainment , where he portrayed Brother Love, the original manager of The Undertaker...
, signed him to a contract. Garland began wrestling in the burgeoning Light Heavyweight division as Scott Taylor. In late 1997, he took part in an eight-man tournament for the vacant Light Heavyweight Championship
WWF Light Heavyweight Championship
The World Wrestling Federation Light Heavyweight Championship was a professional wrestling championship. The title was challenged by light heavyweights at a maximum weight of 220 lbs.- History :...
, but was eliminated in the second round after being chokeslam
Chokeslam
A chokeslam refers to a type of body slam in professional wrestling in which the wrestler grasps their opponent's neck, lifts them up, and slams them to the mat. It is common in televised wrestling because it is simple and relatively safe, yet looks powerful on camera...
med by Kane.
Too Cool
On March 29, 1998 at WrestleMania XIVWrestleMania XIV
WrestleMania XIV was the fourteenth annual WrestleMania professional wrestling pay-per-view event produced by the World Wrestling Federation , which took place on March 29, 1998 at the FleetCenter in Boston, Massachusetts....
, Taylor and "Too Sexy" Brian Christopher
Brian Lawler
Brian Christopher Lawler is a professional wrestler. He is the son of color commentator and professional wrestler Jerry "The King" Lawler and brother of wrestling referee Kevin Christian...
teamed together for the first time, taking part in a tag team
Tag team
Tag team professional wrestling is a variation in which matches are contested between teams of multiple wrestlers. A tag team may comprise two wrestlers who normally wrestle in singles competition, but more commonly are made of established teams who wrestle regularly as a unit and have a team name...
battle royal
Battle royal (professional wrestling)
In professional wrestling, a battle royal is a multi-competitor match type in which wrestlers are eliminated until one is left and declared winner...
. Following WrestleMania XIV, Taylor and Christopher continued to team together on the WWF's syndicated Saturday wrestling shows, with Taylor playing the straight man
Double act
A double act, also known as a comedy duo, is a comic pairing in which humor is derived from the uneven relationship between two partners, usually of the same gender, age, ethnic origin and profession, but drastically different personalities or behavior...
to Christopher's over-the-top, egotistical antics. Soon, Taylor adopted Christopher's flamboyant actions and in-ring mannerisms and became known as Scott "Too Hot" Taylor, with the duo dubbed "Too Much".
In May 1999, Taylor was renamed Scotty Too Hotty (later changed to Scotty 2 Hotty) and Christopher was renamed Grand Master Sexay. Collectively known as "Too Cool", Taylor and Christopher were given the characteristics of wigger
Wigger
Wigger is a pejorative slang term for a white person who emulates mannerisms, language, and fashions associated with African-American culture, particularly hip hop in the United States or the Grime/Garage scene in Britain. The term is a portmanteau of either wannabe or white and nigger...
s, delivering raps
Rapping
Rapping refers to "spoken or chanted rhyming lyrics". The art form can be broken down into different components, as in the book How to Rap where it is separated into “content”, “flow” , and “delivery”...
aimed at their opponents and parodying aspects of hip hop culture. Shortly after debuting their new characters, the team was temporarily separated after Christopher tore his anterior cruciate ligament
Anterior cruciate ligament
The anterior cruciate ligament is a cruciate ligament which is one of the four major ligaments of the human knee. In the quadruped stifle , based on its anatomical position, it is referred to as the cranial cruciate ligament.The ACL originates from deep within the notch of the distal femur...
and was sidelined for three months. In late 1999, Too Cool aligned themselves with Rikishi Fatu
Solofa Fatu
Solofa F. Fatu, Jr. is an American professional wrestler, best known under the ring name Rikishi.-The Samoan Swat Team:...
(whom they quickly renamed Rikishi Phatu), forming a faction. Following their matches, Too Cool and Rikishi would perform a dance routine in the center of the ring.
In early 2000, the group began feuding with The Radicalz
The Radicalz
The Radicalz were a professional wrestling stable in the World Wrestling Federation . Their members were former World Championship Wrestling performers Chris Benoit, Eddie Guerrero, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko. Terri Runnels later joined the group by proxy after becoming Saturn's onscreen...
, culmintating with Too Cool teaming with Chyna to beat Eddie Guerrero
Eddie Guerrero
Eduardo Gory "Eddie" Guerrero was a Mexican-American professional wrestler born into the Guerrero wrestling family. He wrestled in Mexico and Japan for several major professional wrestling promotions...
, Perry Saturn and Dean Malenko
Dean Malenko
Dean Simon is a retired professional wrestler, better known by his ring name Dean Malenko. He is currently signed to WWE working as a road agent. He is best known for his time with Extreme Championship Wrestling , New Japan Pro Wrestling and World Championship Wrestling...
at WrestleMania 2000
WrestleMania 2000
WrestleMania 2000 was the sixteenth annual WrestleMania professional wrestling pay-per-view produced by the World Wrestling Federation . It took place on April 2, 2000 at the Arrowhead Pond in Anaheim, California...
. After Christopher re-injured his leg, Scotty briefly returned to the Light Heavyweight division, and on April 17, 2000, he defeated Radicalz member Dean Malenko to win the Light Heavyweight Championship. He held the title for only 10 days before dropping it back to Malenko on April 27, 2000. Scotty challenged Malenko for the title once more at Backlash, but was defeated. Christopher returned in mid-2000, and on May 29, 2000, Too Cool defeated Edge and Christian
Edge and Christian
Edge and Christian was a tag team made of real life best friends Edge and Christian , who performed in WWE and the Canadian independent circuit. They won the WWF Tag Team Championship on seven occasions...
to win the Tag Team Championship with the assistance of rapper Joe C.
Joe C.
Joseph "Joe C." Calleja was an American rapper and musician. His popularity and fame were based on his relationship as hype man and comic relief for fellow rapper Kid Rock.-Condition:Calleja was born in Taylor, Michigan...
They held the title until June 25, 2000, when Edge and Christian regained the title.
Car accident
A traffic collision, also known as a traffic accident, motor vehicle collision, motor vehicle accident, car accident, automobile accident, Road Traffic Collision or car crash, occurs when a vehicle collides with another vehicle, pedestrian, animal, road debris, or other stationary obstruction,...
Steve Austin
Stone Cold Steve Austin
Steve Austin , better known by his ring name "Stone Cold" Steve Austin, is an American film and television actor and retired professional wrestler...
. Rikishi subsequently easily defeating his former allies in a handicap match. In February 2001, the intervertebral disc
Intervertebral disc
Intervertebral discs lie between adjacent vertebrae in the spine. Each disc forms a cartilaginous joint to allow slight movement of the vertebrae, and acts as a ligament to hold the vertebrae together.-Structure:...
between Scotty's C6 and C7 vertebrae bulged, and he was forced to undergo surgery. His absence was explained that he suffered a (kayfabe
Kayfabe
In professional wrestling, kayfabe is the portrayal of events within the industry as "real" or "true". Specifically, the portrayal of professional wrestling, in particular the competition and rivalries between participants, as being genuine or not of a worked nature...
) broken ankle at the hands of Kurt Angle
Kurt Angle
Kurt Steven Angle is an American professional wrestler, amateur wrestler, and 1996 Olympic gold medalist. He is currently under contract with Total Nonstop Action Wrestling, where he is recognized as a 15-time World Heavyweight Champion...
. Whilst Scotty was recuperating, Christopher was released from the company for illegally conveying drugs
Illegal drug trade
The illegal drug trade is a global black market, dedicated to cultivation, manufacture, distribution and sale of those substances which are subject to drug prohibition laws. Most jurisdictions prohibit trade, except under license, of many types of drugs by drug prohibition laws.A UN report said the...
across the Canada–United States border.
Various tag teams and departure
Scotty returned to the ring in June 2001, taking part in the rivalry between Team WWF and The Alliance. During this time, he formed a tag team with Albert, who subsequently adopted the nickname "The Hip Hop Hippo", and they collectively became known as the "Zoo Crew". The team competed in the tag team division until April 2002, when Albert betrayed Scotty by attacking him.Scotty spent 17 months recuperating, returning to the ring in April 2003 and to television in October 2003. Wrestling on the SmackDown! brand
WWE Brand Extension
WWE, formerly the World Wrestling Federation and World Wrestling Entertainment , currently promotes its core business of professional wrestling through two "brands" named after their two major television shows Raw and SmackDown...
, Scotty formed a tag team with his former ally Rikishi. Together, they competed in the tag team division and ultimately defeated the Basham Brothers
Basham Brothers
The Basham Brothers, Doug and Danny , are a professional wrestling tag team, who formerly worked for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling and World Wrestling Entertainment .-History:...
to win the WWE Tag Team Championship
WWE Tag Team Championship
The WWE Tag Team Championship is a professional wrestling world tag team championship in WWE. It was established as a second title for tag teams in WWE in 2002 to complement the original World Tag Team Championship...
on February 5, 2004. Scotty and Rikishi successfully defended their titles in a four way tag team match at WrestleMania XX
WrestleMania XX
WrestleMania XX was the twentieth WrestleMania professional wrestling pay-per-view produced by World Wrestling Entertainment . It took place on March 14, 2004 at Madison Square Garden in New York....
. Their reign ended on April 22, 2004 when they were defeated by Charlie Haas
Charlie Haas
Charles "Charlie" Doyle Haas II is an American professional wrestler and former collegiate amateur wrestler. He competes on the independent circuit, and is signed to Ring of Honor , where he is one-half of the reigning ROH World Tag Team Champions with Shelton Benjamin...
and Rico
Rico Constantino
Americo Sebastiano Costantino is a retired American professional wrestler and wrestling manager of Italian origin. He is best known by his ring names Rico Costantino and Rico in World Wrestling Entertainment from 2001 to 2004...
. On July 16, 2004, WWE released Rikishi, leaving Scotty on his own.
After Rikishi's release, Scotty wrestled mainly on Velocity
WWE Velocity
WWE Velocity was a professional wrestling television program produced by World Wrestling Entertainment . It replaced two syndicated WWE shows, Jakked/Metal. Once a weekly Saturday night show on Spike TV and on Sky Sports 2 in the UK on Sunday mornings, Velocity became a webcast from 2005 to 2006...
and in dark matches until early 2007. In April 2007 he returned briefly to the Raw roster, competing in a handful of matches on WWE Heat
WWE HEAT
WWE Heat was a professional wrestling television program produced by World Wrestling Entertainment...
. He was released from the company on May 18, 2007.
On December 10, 2007, Scotty returned to WWE for one night only, during Raw
Battle royal (professional wrestling)
In professional wrestling, a battle royal is a multi-competitor match type in which wrestlers are eliminated until one is left and declared winner...
", and was among the final four wrestlers before being eliminated by Skinner
Steve Keirn
Stephen "Steve" Paul Keirn is an American retired professional wrestler. He is best known for being part of the tag team The Fabulous Ones, with Stan Lane, and later for a run in the World Wrestling Federation as Skinner, a gimmick that portrayed him as a tobacco spitting alligator hunter from...
.
Independent circuit (2007–2011)
Following his release, Garland began competing on the independent circuit once more, alternating between the ring names Scotty Too Hotty and Scotty The Hotty. On March 1, 2008, Scotty won Eastern Pro Wrestling's Heavyweight Championship after defeating Bob Evans. Evans won the title back in a cage match on May 17, 2008 in Danielson, ConnecticutDanielson, Connecticut
Danielson is a borough in the town of Killingly in Windham County, Connecticut. The population was 4,265 at the 2000 census.-Geography:According to the United States Census Bureau, the borough has a total area of , of which is land and is water....
. In May 2008, Scotty wrestled two matches for Full Impact Pro
Full Impact Pro
Full Impact Pro is an American independent professional wrestling promotion based in Florida. Their shows are taped and then sold as DVDs. Full Impact Pro was the sister promotion of Ring of Honor until 2009...
, teaming with Delirious
Delirious (wrestler)
Hunter Johnston is an American professional wrestler, better known by his ring name Delirious. He is currently wrestling for Ring of Honor, International Wrestling Cartel, Chikara, Pro Wrestling Noah, and Jersey All Pro Wrestling...
to defeat The Young, Rich, and Ready For Action (Sal Rinauro
Sal Rinauro
Salvatore "Sal" Rinauro is an American professional wrestler. He is best known for his work in Ring of Honor and Full Impact Pro in addition to being a member of The Embassy.-Ring of Honor:...
and Chasyn Rance), and defeating Davey Richards
Davey Richards
Wesley David Richards is an American professional wrestler, better known by his ring name Davey Richards.Richards is currently under contract with Ring of Honor, where he is the current ROH World Champion, but also wrestles for several companies on the independent circuit, including Pro Wrestling...
in a singles match.
In June 2008, Scotty appeared at the CLASH Wrestling's NPCI tournament, in which the promotion's first World Tag Champions would be crowned, and teamed with CLASH Champion Cameron Skyy. The team lost in the first round to Tommy Tydie and J. Miller. On October 3, 2008, Scotty teamed with Owen Graichen in a loss to Fred Curry and Chris Venom in which the loser of the fall was (in storyline
Kayfabe
In professional wrestling, kayfabe is the portrayal of events within the industry as "real" or "true". Specifically, the portrayal of professional wrestling, in particular the competition and rivalries between participants, as being genuine or not of a worked nature...
) forced to leave Eastern Pro Wrestling for 60 days. Due to being the wrestler pinned, Scotty had to leave the promotion.
On October 17, 2009, Scotty won the Coastal Championship Wrestling Heavyweight Championship after defeating then-champion Dok Rivers.
Personal life
In 1998, Garland married Theresa "Terri" Marie, a nurse whom he met while working in a Kentucky Fried ChickenKFC
KFC, founded and also known as Kentucky Fried Chicken, is a chain of fast food restaurants based in Louisville, Kentucky, in the United States. KFC has been a brand and operating segment, termed a concept of Yum! Brands since 1997 when that company was spun off from PepsiCo as Tricon Global...
outlet in Windham, Maine
Windham, Maine
Windham is a town in Cumberland County, Maine, United States. The population was 17,001 at the 2010 census. It includes the villages of South Windham and North Windham...
. He and his wife currently live in Orlando, Florida
Orlando, Florida
Orlando is a city in the central region of the U.S. state of Florida. It is the county seat of Orange County, and the center of the Greater Orlando metropolitan area. According to the 2010 US Census, the city had a population of 238,300, making Orlando the 79th largest city in the United States...
, and have three children: a daughter named Taylor and two sons. Garland is a Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort , is the world's most-visited entertaimental resort. Located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida ; approximately southwest of Orlando, Florida, United States, the resort covers an area of and includes four theme parks, two water parks, 23 on-site themed resort hotels Walt...
aficionado, and owns a season pass to the park.
Garland appeared in-character, alongside Kid Kash in the December 2009 video for the Irish band, Fight Like Apes' single "Do You Karate". In 2010, he completed filming a movie called Ultimate Death Match 3, which also featured other wrestlers.
In wrestling
- NicknameNicknameA nickname is "a usually familiar or humorous but sometimes pointed or cruel name given to a person or place, as a supposedly appropriate replacement for or addition to the proper name.", or a name similar in origin and pronunciation from the original name....
s
- Entrance themesMusic in professional wrestlingMusic in professional wrestling serves a variety of purposes. The most common uses of music in professional wrestling is that of the entrance theme, a song or piece of instrumental music which plays as a performer approaches the ring...
- "Turn It Up" by Jim JohnstonJim Johnston (composer)James Alan "Jim" Johnston is an American music composer who has been working for WWE since 1985. His work is often accredited to the names Jim Johnston, James A...
(1997-2007)
- "Turn It Up" by Jim Johnston
Championships and accomplishments
- New England Wrestling Association
- Pro Wrestling IllustratedPro Wrestling IllustratedPro Wrestling Illustrated is a professional wrestling magazine. PWI is currently based in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania and published by Kappa Publishing Group.-History:The first issue of Pro Wrestling Illustrated was released in 1979...
- PWI ranked him #33 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 2000
- World Wrestling Entertainment
- WWE Tag Team ChampionshipWWE Tag Team ChampionshipThe WWE Tag Team Championship is a professional wrestling world tag team championship in WWE. It was established as a second title for tag teams in WWE in 2002 to complement the original World Tag Team Championship...
(1 time) – with RikishiSolofa FatuSolofa F. Fatu, Jr. is an American professional wrestler, best known under the ring name Rikishi.-The Samoan Swat Team:... - WWE Light Heavyweight ChampionshipWWF Light Heavyweight ChampionshipThe World Wrestling Federation Light Heavyweight Championship was a professional wrestling championship. The title was challenged by light heavyweights at a maximum weight of 220 lbs.- History :...
(1 time) - WWE World Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Grandmaster SexayBrian LawlerBrian Christopher Lawler is a professional wrestler. He is the son of color commentator and professional wrestler Jerry "The King" Lawler and brother of wrestling referee Kevin Christian...
- WWE Tag Team Championship