Source: Kent News

Legendary wrestling star Ric Flair has tipped a Kent-born colleague to reach the very top of his profession.

The former 16-time world champion says ex-Maidstone schoolboy Steven Haworth – who performs under the name Desmond Wolfe – has all the tools required to make a name for himself in the industry.

Both men currently star in the Total Non-stop Action (TNA) promotion, which is returning to the UK next January for its third tour of the country.

Speaking to KOS Media to promote the Maximum Impact shows, Flair – considered one of the finest wrestlers in history – heaped praise on his fellow grappler.

“Desmond has a lot of skill and has a tremendous future in the business,” he said. “I certainly think he’s a future world champion.

“It may not happen overnight, but I have no doubt it’s something he’s capable of fulfilling.”

Flair – nicknamed The Nature Boy – also had kind words for Sevenoaks grappler Douglas Williams, who is under contract with TNA as the promotion’s X-Division champion.

He said: “Doug is a tremendously skilled guy as well. He’s definitely a gifted athlete.”

Having wrestled at the highest level since the mid-1970s, Flair stands alongside Hulk Hogan and The Rock as one of the most famous wrestlers to have ever lived.

Despite being told he would never perform again after breaking his back in a 1975 plane crash, Flair went on to headline events around the world – selling out Wembley Stadium and Madison Square Garden in the process.

He joined TNA in January after seven years with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE), but at the age of 61 he has no plans to call it a day.

“There will be a time when I hang my boots up, but it’s not now,” he said.

“I feel great, thank God I’m still healthy and I feel like I’m still only 13. I probably have too much energy for my own good.”

The Maximum Impact tour includes dates in Glasgow, Manchester and at Wembley Arena, and takes place from January 27-29 next year. Tickets went on sale on Friday, June 4.

“The UK fans are some of the greatest in the world to perform in front of,” said Flair.

“I’ve had fun whenever I’ve come over here because the crowds are always big and the arenas are packed.

“They don’t get to see us as much as they do in America, so they’re always very loud and appreciative of what we do.”