Beyond Tony Schiavone’s iconic calls during Sting’s entrances, his influence extends to the creation of memorable nicknames, as seen in WWE Hall Of Famer Greg Valentine’s case.
Valentine credits Schiavone for originating his trademark ‘The Hammer’ moniker during their time at NWA Mid-Atlantic Wrestling, where Schiavone took over commentary duties from Bob Cottle and David Crockett.
Recounting the story in a recent interview with “Wrestling Shoot Interviews,” Valentine explained, “He would say, ‘Here comes the hammer,’ because I’d throw the guy outside on the floor, and I’d bring him up and bring him back over like my dad.”
The phrase stuck, and Greg ‘The Hammer’ Valentine was born, becoming a lasting identity throughout his career and present appearances.
Valentine also emphasizes the value of owning his name for marketing and financial opportunities in the wrestling industry today, stating, “Vince, of course, wouldn’t bother me selling my own s**t too.”
