Michael Paris (Joaquin Wilde): A Professional Wrestling Journey
Michael Paris, born on October 5, 1986, is an American professional wrestler currently signed to WWE, where he performs on the Raw brand under the ring name Joaquin Wilde.1
As a notable member of the Latino World Order (LWO) and a former founding member of Legado Del Fantasma, Wilde has carved out an impressive career with his high-flying abilities, charismatic persona, and versatile in-ring style. His journey through different wrestling promotions and his rise in WWE reflect his dedication to the sport.
Table of Contents
Early Life and Wrestling Beginnings
Michael Paris, originally from Los Angeles, California, had a passion for professional wrestling from a young age. Like many wrestlers of his generation, he grew up watching wrestling during the Attitude Era, a period that defined the industry with its intense rivalries and over-the-top characters.
Inspired by the dynamic nature of the sport, Paris began training to become a professional wrestler in the early 2000s, eventually making his in-ring debut in 2004.
Rise on the Independent Circuit and TNA/Impact Wrestling
Before joining WWE, Wilde gained widespread recognition on the independent wrestling scene, particularly through his work in Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), which later rebranded as Impact Wrestling.
He debuted in TNA in 2011 under the name Zema Ion and quickly became one of the top stars in the X Division, known for its fast-paced, high-flying action. His flashy style and persona made him a fan favorite.
WWE Debut and the Evolution of Joaquin Wilde
- In 2019, Michael Paris signed with WWE, marking a new chapter in his career. Adopting the ring name Joaquin Wilde, he made his debut in WWE’s developmental brand, NXT, which focuses on showcasing rising talent.
- Wilde’s introduction to the WWE Universe was met with excitement as fans were eager to see how he would transition to the company’s larger-than-life atmosphere.
- Wilde’s time in NXT allowed him to further develop his character and establish himself as a key player within the brand’s cruiserweight division.
- He participated in high-profile matches, demonstrating his agility, technical skills, and creativity in the ring. His flashy entrance, complete with LED lights and futuristic attire, added to his growing popularity.
Legado Del Fantasma and the Latino World Order
One of the defining moments of Joaquin Wilde’s WWE career came when he aligned with Santos Escobar to form the faction Legado Del Fantasma in 2020.2
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The group, which also included Raul Mendoza (later known as Cruz Del Toro), focused on embracing their Latino heritage while asserting dominance in NXT. As a trio, they quickly became a force to be reckoned with, engaging in memorable rivalries with other top stars of the brand.
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Professional Wrestling Career of Michael Paris (Joaquin Wilde)
Michael Paris, known to wrestling fans as Joaquin Wilde, embarked on his professional wrestling journey in 2003 when he began training at a young age. After 14 months of training, Paris made his in-ring debut in West Virginia, marking the start of what would be a long and successful career in the industry.3
Over the next decade, Paris established himself on the independent wrestling circuit, wrestling under various ring names, including Shiima Xion. His work across numerous promotions earned him recognition as a talented, versatile wrestler, and he won several championships along the way.
Early Days on the Independent Circuit
- Michael Paris’ early wrestling career took place predominantly on the independent circuit, where he wrestled for various promotions across the United States and internationally.
- Known for his high-flying, fast-paced style, Paris quickly gained a reputation as an exciting performer to watch.
- Under the ring name Shiima Xion, he became a notable figure in independent promotions, including International Wrestling Cartel (IWC), Real Championship Wrestling (RCW), and Pro Wrestling Ohio (PWO).
- During his time on the independent circuit, Paris showcased his versatility by working in a wide variety of match types, including singles, tag team, and even hardcore matches.
- His agility and ability to execute complex maneuvers made him a fan favorite, and his dedication to improving his craft was evident in every performance.
Transition to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA)/Impact Wrestling
In 2011, Michael Paris took a major step in his career by joining Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), which would later be rebranded as Impact Wrestling.
Under the new ring name Zema Ion, Paris quickly became a prominent figure in TNA’s X Division, a high-flying, fast-paced division known for featuring some of the most athletic and innovative wrestlers in the world.
Overcoming Challenges
Paris’ career in TNA wasn’t without its challenges. In 2013, he suffered a serious injury during a match that required immediate surgery. The incident temporarily sidelined him from in-ring competition, and Paris faced uncertainty about his future in wrestling. Despite the setback, he remained determined to return to the ring and continue his career.
The Early Artistic Roots of Joaquin Wilde: Creating History Before Stepping into the Ring
At just 15 years old, Joaquin Wilde, known by his real name Michael Paris, was already leaving an indelible mark on the professional wrestling world. While many wrestlers begin their careers training inside the ropes, honing their in-ring skills, Wilde’s journey started in a way that was both unique and impactful: with a logo design contest for a new wrestling promotion.
That promotion, unbeknownst to many at the time, would go on to revolutionize the industry. The company was Ring of Honor (ROH), and the young Paris’ design became the face of the brand for its first two pivotal years.
“Doing something you hate to do like you love it is good conditioning for someone aspiring towards greatness” @WWENXT @WWE pic.twitter.com/LUWRtjGPsn
— Joaquin Wilde (@joaquinwilde_) March 16, 2022
Ring of Honor: A Pioneering Wrestling Promotion
To understand the significance of Paris’ early contribution, it’s important to recognize the role that Ring of Honor played in shaping modern professional wrestling.
ROH was established in 2002 with a mission to emphasize in-ring action, technical wrestling, and athleticism—traits that many fans felt were missing from the more entertainment-focused promotions of the time, such as WWE.
From Logos to Lockups: Joaquin Wilde’s Journey to the Ring
Though his first notable contribution to wrestling came through graphic design, Michael Paris always knew he was destined to step inside the ring. His passion for wrestling wasn’t just artistic—it was physical, and it was something he had wanted to pursue since his early childhood.
In 2003, Paris made his in-ring debut, wrestling under the name Shiima Xion. For nearly a decade, Paris worked his way through the independent wrestling circuit, sharpening his skills and building his reputation in various promotions.
Reinventing as Joaquin Wilde: A New Chapter in WWE
In 2019, after years of success in various independent promotions, Paris signed with WWE, the largest wrestling company in the world. It was a dream come true for the boy who had once designed logos for start-up wrestling promotions.
Under the ring name Joaquin Wilde, he was assigned to NXT, WWE’s developmental brand, where he quickly became a fan favorite due to his charisma and in-ring abilities.
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Personal Life of Joaquin Wilde: A Story of Perseverance and Cultural Pride
Michael Paris, known in the wrestling world as Joaquin Wilde, has a personal life that reflects resilience, cultural pride, and an unwavering commitment to his dreams.
Born on October 5, 1986, Paris grew up in a household with a strong sense of heritage and values, deeply influenced by his Filipino roots. Raised by a single mother who had emigrated from the Philippines, Paris’ life journey is as inspiring as his wrestling career.
Filipino Heritage and Family Influence
- Joaquin Wilde’s Filipino heritage plays a significant role in shaping who he is today. His mother, a Filipino immigrant, worked tirelessly to provide for her family, instilling in Paris the values of hard work, determination, and gratitude.
- Growing up in this environment, Paris developed a deep appreciation for his cultural roots and the sacrifices his mother made.
- These values would later be seen in his wrestling career, where his perseverance and dedication earned him respect in the industry.
- Paris has often spoken about the influence his mother had on his life, crediting her for his work ethic and for teaching him the importance of following his passions.
- Being raised in a single-parent household also made Paris more resilient, as he learned to overcome challenges and push through obstacles to achieve his goals.
Growing Up in West Virginia
Although born in Los Angeles, California, Joaquin Wilde spent much of his upbringing in New Cumberland, West Virginia, where he attended Oak Glen High School. It was during these formative years that Paris discovered his passion for professional wrestling, a dream he had nurtured since childhood.
High school not only provided him with the opportunity to explore his athleticism but also allowed him to delve deeper into the world of wrestling as a fan and aspiring wrestler.
College Life: Journalism and Wrestling
After high school, Michael Paris attended West Virginia University, where he majored in journalism. While his primary focus was on pursuing a degree, Paris never lost sight of his wrestling ambitions. College life provided him with a balance between academics and his passion for professional wrestling.
The journalism field, with its emphasis on storytelling and communication, complemented his natural ability to connect with audiences—a skill that would prove valuable when he eventually transitioned to a career in wrestling.
Balancing Two Worlds: Journalism and Wrestling
The choice to major in journalism may seem surprising for someone so deeply entrenched in the world of professional wrestling. However, Paris’ decision to pursue journalism was an extension of his ability to tell stories—something that professional wrestling and journalism both have in common.
Wrestling is an art form that combines athleticism with compelling narratives, and Paris’ understanding of both worlds gave him a unique edge in his career.
A Love for Wrestling: Early Inspirations
Like many professional wrestlers, Joaquin Wilde’s love for wrestling was born from watching the larger-than-life characters and dramatic matches on television. Growing up, he admired wrestling legends such as Shawn Michaels, Rey Mysterio, and Eddie Guerrero, all of whom influenced his in-ring style and inspired him to pursue a career in wrestling.
Their high-flying maneuvers, charisma, and ability to connect with fans left a lasting impression on the young Michael Paris, motivating him to chase his dreams relentlessly.
Marriage and Personal Life Outside of Wrestling
In addition to his professional wrestling career, Joaquin Wilde leads a fulfilling personal life. He married Lupita Orozco in December of 2019, and the couple has been happily married ever since.
Wilde’s family remains a central part of his life, and he often credits his wife for being a source of support throughout his wrestling journey. Despite the rigorous demands of his career, Wilde makes time for his family and values the strong bond they share.
Overcoming Adversities: The Road to WWE
Joaquin Wilde’s journey to WWE was not without its challenges. Like many wrestlers, he faced numerous setbacks and obstacles on his path to success. From injuries to grueling schedules on the independent circuit, Paris had to push through many difficult moments to achieve his dream of making it to the largest wrestling promotion in the world.
FAQ’S
1. Who is Joaquin Wilde?
Ans: Joaquin Wilde is a professional wrestler currently signed with WWE, performing on the SmackDown brand. He is part of the faction Legado Del Fantasma, which includes Santos Escobar, Cruz Del Toro, and Zelina Vega. Before joining WWE, he wrestled in various promotions under the ring name DJZ.
2. How old is Joaquin Wilde?
Ans: Joaquin Wilde was born on October 5, 1986, which makes him 38 years old as of 2024.
3. What is Joaquin Wilde’s wrestling career like?
Ans: Joaquin Wilde began his wrestling career in 2004. He gained recognition in Impact Wrestling (formerly TNA) under the name DJZ, where he won the X Division Championship twice. Wilde signed with WWE in 2019 and debuted as part of the Cruiserweight Classic. He has since become a part of the Legado Del Fantasma faction, contributing to various feuds and matches in WWE.
4. What is Joaquin Wilde’s personal life like?
Ans: Wilde, born Michael Paris, is of Filipino and Puerto Rican descent. He has been open about his love for music, which influenced his previous DJZ character. Wilde has also shared his passion for fashion and culture through social media, connecting with fans beyond wrestling.
5. What are some of Joaquin Wilde’s career highlights?
Ans: Some of Joaquin Wilde’s career highlights include winning the TNA X Division Championship twice, performing in major wrestling promotions worldwide, and being a key member of Legado Del Fantasma in WWE. His high-flying style and charisma have made him a standout talent in the ring.
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