Insight with Chris Van Vliet Erik On War Raiders, His Near-Fatal Motorcycle Accident, Tag Team Champs, Viking Experience
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May 1, 2025 Professional wrestler Erik, one half of WWE's War Raiders, shares his incredible journey from his near-fatal motorcycle accident to winning the Tag Team Championships. He talks about the challenges of name changes, including the infamous 'Viking Experience,' and reflects on the emotional connections wrestlers have with fans. Erik also discusses parenting, health insights, and the joys of Viking culture, while emphasizing the importance of gratitude and authenticity in both life and wrestling.
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Near-Fatal Motorcycle Accident
- Erik survived a severe motorcycle accident where he hit a car at 55 mph with no helmet, causing multiple fractures and a skull fracture.
- Doctors said he should have died, but he walked to the ambulance and was back wrestling six months later with extensive surgery.
Life After Near Death Experience
- Facing death transformed Erik’s perspective to value every moment and avoid wasting time on trivial worries.
- This experience fueled gratitude, deeper appreciation for life, and motivation to make the most of each day.
Career-Threatening Neck Injury
- Erik sustained a neck injury from a suplex that required surgery and months of recovery with uncertainty about returning.
- He feared the end of his wrestling career but eventually fully fused and returned to training after 13 months.