If you missed former WWE Superstar Zach Gowen on American Ninja Warrior, don’t. Watch the clip, above. You don’t think it’s gonna inspire you because you’ve seen him get his leg pulled off by Rowdy Roddy Piper and you’ve seen Brock Lesnar shove him down a flight of stairs in a wheelchair, but surprise, it’s going to get to you.
Finishing one of the qualifying courses for Ninja Warrior is hard enough with two legs, and Gowen’s able to do way more than you might expect on one. Pretty sure I couldn’t get from the introductory platform to the first step without breaking my ankle, falling backwards into the water and drowning. But hey, I don’t throw a perfect moonsault either.
Gowen’s not the first pro wrestler to compete on Ninja Warrior, especially if we’re incorporating the history of Sasuke. Hiroshi Tanahashi competed on the show as IWGP Champion, and in two appearances never made it past round one. Kota Ibushi, one of the best athletes in the sport, suffered a similar fate. Tiger Mask IV didn’t even make it past the first obstacle. And yeah, before you ask, The Great Sasuke competed on Sasuke. In the English speaking versions he’s “The Great Ninja Warrior.” Gowen’s in good company.
Keep inspiring folks, Zach, and keep making the improbable look easy.
