SECAUCUS — WWE superstar Sheamus may be a fan favorite in the wrestling ring. But when he faced off against a firefighter to put on turnout gear faster, the Irish wrestler had no chance.
Sheamus along with the wrestler Cesaro paid a visit to the Secaucus Fire Department on Friday and delivered new couches, kitchen appliances, end tables and board games to the volunteer firehouse — all of which was paid for by cellular service provider Cricket Wireless.
“These individuals, volunteer firefighters, they’re putting their lives on the line for their community,” said Sheamus, who stood wearing a firefighter’s uniform.
“It’s a huge honor for me to be wearing this,” he said pointing to the uniform. “This isn’t to be taken lightly. This uniform is earned and highly respected."
The visit, which brought smiles to children, firefighters and residents’ faces, was facilitated through the Cricket Cares program, which was launched in 2017 to give back to communities.
“It was a great opportunity with our partnership with WWE to really be a part of the communities that we serve ... and what bigger way than with our volunteer firemen in this fire house” said Michon Walls, Cricket’s regional marketing director.
The two wrestlers also gave two free tickets to WrestleMania on Sunday in MetLife Stadium to the Deputy Fire Chief Joseph Schoendorf, who said he’s a huge wrestling fan and even wrestled in high school for four years.
“I was totally surprised,” said Schoendorf, who noted that he will either go with his wife or his son to the event. “It’s always great to see that they interact with all of us and want to give back to the community because that’s what it’s all about. It makes it really special.”
And it was special for Collin, 11, who said he left school early on Friday to meet the two wrestlers.
“I’ve been wanting to meet a wrestler ... ever since I’ve started to watch,” he said, adding he’s been following wrestling for years. “I was very thrilled when they came in. I wasn’t expecting to get the opportunity to meet them.”
And Cesaro, who’s name is Claudio Castagnoli, said he was just as excited.
“It’s super cool to be here in Secaucus, and I’m really happy I can pronounce that right,” he said jokingly. “Meeting all the volunteers, that’s always a highlight," Cesaro said, adding that seeing the kids happy to see him and Sheamus is “the best feeling ever."
Both wrestlers said their childhood dreams were fulfilled on Friday when they rode in the fire truck.
“I feel like a big kid right now. It’s great,” Sheamus said.
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