Fandango, born Curtis Jonathan Hussey on July 22, 1981, in Standish, Maine, is a professional wrestler best known for his time with WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). With a career spanning over two decades, Fandango has left an indelible mark on the wrestling industry with his flamboyant persona, impressive in-ring skills, and unique gimmick that combined dancing with wrestling.
Early Life and Beginnings in Wrestling
Curtis Hussey grew up in Maine, where he developed an early interest in sports and athletics. He participated in various sports during his school years, including basketball and soccer, but it was wrestling that captured his imagination. Inspired by the larger-than-life characters he saw on television, Hussey began training at a local wrestling school shortly after high school graduation.
The Road to WWE
Fandango’s journey to WWE wasn’t an overnight success. He began his professional wrestling career on the independent circuit in 1999, performing under various ring names and honing his craft. His perseverance paid off when he signed a developmental contract with WWE in 2006. Initially assigned to WWE’s developmental territories, he wrestled in Deep South Wrestling (DSW) and later Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW), where he developed his skills and built his persona.
The Birth of Fandango
In 2013, Curtis Hussey debuted on WWE’s main roster under the ring name Fandango. This character was a dramatic departure from traditional wrestling personas, blending elements of ballroom dancing with professional wrestling. Fandango’s entrance, complete with elaborate dance routines and the catchy theme song “ChaChaLaLa,” quickly made him a fan favorite. His character’s flamboyance and charisma set him apart from other wrestlers.
Major Achievements and Memorable Feuds
Fandango’s WWE career is marked by several significant achievements and memorable feuds. One of his most notable moments came at WrestleMania 29 in 2013, where he defeated Chris Jericho in his debut match at the event. This victory catapulted Fandango into the spotlight and established him as a rising star in WWE.
Throughout his career, Fandango engaged in feuds with several high-profile wrestlers, including Dolph Ziggler, The Miz, and Tyler Breeze. His partnership with Tyler Breeze, known as “Breezango,” was particularly well-received by fans. The duo’s comedic skits, combined with their in-ring chemistry, made them one of the most entertaining tag teams in WWE.
Injuries and Challenges
Like many professional wrestlers, Fandango faced his share of injuries and setbacks. In 2014, he suffered a concussion that temporarily sidelined him. Despite these challenges, Fandango demonstrated resilience and determination, returning to the ring stronger than ever. His ability to adapt and reinvent himself played a crucial role in his longevity in the wrestling industry.
Life Outside the Ring
Outside of wrestling, Curtis Hussey leads a relatively private life. He is known to be passionate about fitness and health, often sharing workout routines and nutrition tips with his fans. Fandango also enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing, which provide a balance to his demanding wrestling career.
Family and Personal Life
Fandango is known to keep his personal life out of the public eye. He has mentioned in interviews that he values his privacy and the time he spends with his family. While specific details about his family are scarce, it is known that Fandango is very close to his relatives and often credits them for their unwavering support throughout his career.
Net Worth
As of 2024, Fandango’s estimated net worth is around $1 million. This figure is a testament to his long-standing career in professional wrestling, his popularity with fans, and his ability to entertain both in and out of the ring. Despite not being the highest earner in WWE, Fandango’s unique character and memorable moments have secured his place in wrestling history.
Legacy and Impact
Fandango’s impact on WWE and the wrestling world extends beyond his in-ring performances. His character brought a fresh and unique element to WWE programming, proving that wrestling could be entertaining and theatrical. Fandango’s entrance theme even sparked a global phenomenon known as “Fandangoing,” where fans would dance and hum his theme song in arenas worldwide.
His partnership with Tyler Breeze in “Breezango” further solidified his legacy as an entertainer who could connect with audiences on multiple levels. The duo’s comedic timing and charisma showcased a different side of professional wrestling, emphasizing entertainment and character work.
Departure from WWE and Future Prospects
In 2021, after nearly 15 years with WWE, Fandango was released from the company as part of a series of budget cuts. This marked the end of an era for the wrestler, but also opened up new opportunities for him to explore. Fandango has since expressed interest in continuing his wrestling career on the independent circuit and potentially exploring opportunities in other wrestling promotions.
Conclusion
Fandango’s career is a testament to the power of perseverance, creativity, and adaptability in professional wrestling. From his early days on the independent circuit to his rise as a WWE superstar, Fandango has entertained millions with his unique blend of dance and wrestling. As he embarks on the next chapter of his career, fans eagerly await to see what new heights Fandango will achieve in the world of professional wrestling.
