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Joe E. Legend
Joe E. Legend
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Joseph Edward Hitchen[4] (born September 2, 1969)[2] is a Canadian professional wrestler and trainer, known under his ring name Joe E. Legend. He also wrestled for the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) from 2000 to 2001 under the ring name Just Joe.

Key Information

Professional wrestling career

[edit]

Early career (1992–1997)

[edit]

Joe Legend began wrestling in Canada before becoming a part of the successful tag team Sex and Violence with Sexton Hardcastle in the Detroit area. His debut match was against Zakk Wyld (Keith Assoun) in Brampton. Ontario in 1992. From 1992 to 1993 he worked in Japan. During 1997, Sex and Violence were a part of a bigger gang which was known as THUG Life, which was composed of Legend, Hardcastle, Christian Cage, Zakk Wyld, Bloody Bill Skullion and Rhino Richards. Among his catchphrases used was "Heroes come and heroes go, but legends live forever!"

Touring Europe (1998–present)

[edit]

Hitchen later competed under XL Legend in the Catch Wrestling Association which is based in Germany. He later teamed with Rhino Richards to win the vacant World Tag Team Championships by defeating Rico de Cuba and August Smisl on October 10, 1998, in Hanover, Germany. The title was vacated in October 1998 when Rhino Richards left the promotion after signing with Extreme Championship Wrestling. Legend found success in Germany and England.

In April 2005, he was one of the lead trainers of Celebrity Wrestling in the United Kingdom on ITV. This Saturday evening reality show saw celebrities learn wrestling and compete in challenge matches. After a few weeks the program was set to be cancelled, but instead was moved to Sunday morning to finish its final episodes.

He can now be found wrestling in and around the United Kingdom for promotions such as All Star Wrestling, working regular shows at Butlins holiday parks after throwing out an open challenge to potential rivals for his Pan Pacific and GSA heavyweight titles. He has also toured Wales for both Orig Williams and Alan Ravenhill.

During his time in the now defunct Frontier Wrestling Alliance he wrestled for the FWA British Heavyweight Championship in a five-way match at The Champions Series Final on January 5, 2006, in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, England, but was defeated by Hade Vansen.

Hitchen also has wrestled in many other countries around the continent, countries such as Denmark, Poland, Italy, France, Portugal, Austria, Russia, Switzerland, Netherlands, Belgium and Greece. Overall, he wrestled in more than 24 countries around the world.

In 2014, in February he lost to David Hart Smith in a DWA/PWF match in Germany. Then he lost to Andrei Ivanov in Pro Wrestling Showdown in the Netherlands. In March he lost to Wolfgang in Premier British Wrestling. In April and May he competed in German organizations Deutsche Wrestling Allianz, German Hurricane Wrestling, Westside Xtreme Wrestling and Power of Wrestling.[5]

World Wrestling Federation (2000–2001)

[edit]

After a few try-out matches, Joe got signed in June 2000. He made his TV debut on the August 8, 2000 episode of Heat where he lost to WWF Light Heavyweight Champion Dean Malenko as Just Joe in the WWF. His gimmick was that of a messenger who tried to stir the pot.[6] He scored victories over Gangrel, Joey Abs, Brooklyn Brawler and Essa Rios. until being taken off TV that November. He was released from his contract in March 2001.

Touring the United States (2003–2004)

[edit]

During his time in the United States, Hitchen competed in the Puerto Rican International Wrestling Association under the ring name Nord. On March 8, 2003, he captured the IWA Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship by defeating Glamour Boy Shane in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico. He lost the championship to Chicano in Bayamón, Puerto Rico on April 19 the same year.

He returned to America in 2004 to compete in the Nashville, Tennessee-based Total Nonstop Action Wrestling. During his time in TNA as part of the Red Shirt Security, he won the NWA World Tag Team Championship with Kevin Northcutt. They held the belts from January 28, 2004 to February 4 of the same year.

Russian and Japanese promotions (2006–2010)

[edit]

Hitchen made his debut in Russia as he competed at Independent Wrestling Federation's Wrestliada 2006 in Moscow, Russia, under the ring name Joe Legend.[7] At the July 28, 2007 event he defeated Volcano to become the first IWF World Champion. During his reign he defeated Raven to retain the championship.[8]

In August 2006, he worked for Pro Wrestling NOAH on their Shiny Navigation Tour, and in April 2007, he worked on the Spring Navigation tour.[9] From July to September 2010, he toured with Pro Wrestling Zero1 working the likes of Masato Tanaka, Shinjiro Otani, Ikuto Hidaka, and Sylvester Terkay.

World Wrestling Professionals (2007–2014)

[edit]

Joe E. Legend tours annually with World Wrestling Professionals (WWP), a South African promotion currently airing on a nationally broadcast network. He also acts as their scouting agent, having been responsible for bringing Mikey Whiplash, Angelico and Murat over to WWP. Joe Legend worked for WWP in 2007 and 2008 and returned in 2009.

The January 10, 2009 episode of WWP saw Joe Legend defeat PJ Black (better known as Justin Gabriel) to capture the then vacant WWP Heavyweight World Title for the first time.

His most recent appearance for WWP was on a tour of Nigeria in August 2014, where he interfered in Tornado's match, causing him to lose to Nigerian wrestler De Ultimate Commander.[10]

Pro Wrestling Showdown (2017)

[edit]

Joe Legend came back 25 November 2017 (Showdown 33), defeating Alexander James in a match for a spot in the Pro Wrestling Showdown World Cup.

Unlimited Wrestling (2019)

[edit]
Legend in 2022

Joe Legend joined the German based company Unlimited Wrestling in 2019, where he mostly competes in the most important matches on the card.[11]

Other media

[edit]

In December 2007, Joe E. Legend became the co-host of The Main Event Radio, the official podcast of TotalWrestling.net.

In May 2009, Hitchen was announced as one of the competitors on the Turkish version of Gladiators, which began filming in September 2009.[12]

Joe E Legend has also acted in several films in France and the UK as well as taking the role of "fight choreographer" for these features. Joe is represented by Jessica Soss of V.S Films and is actively pursuing further roles in film and TV.

Personal life

[edit]

Hitchen is good friends with fellow professional wrestlers Terry Gerin, Don Callis, Jay Reso, and Adam Copeland. He and his wife, Svenia Hitchen, have twin boys named Connor and Maverick.[4]

Published works

[edit]

Hitchen is the co-author of Marie's World, published in June 2014 by Austin Macauley Publishers.[13]

Championships and accomplishments

[edit]
Legend (right) at a wrestling live event in Arklow, Ireland in 2008
Legend in 2022
  • Association Biterroise de Catch
    • ABC Ultimate Championship (1 time)[14]
  • Asylum Of Wrestling Maniacs
    • AWM Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • Athletik Club Wrestling
    • ACW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)[15]
  • Atlantic Grand Prix Wrestling
    • AGPW Continental Championship (1 time)
  • Catch Wrestling Association
  • Deutsche Wrestling Allianz
    • DWA World Heavyweight Championship (1 time) [17]
  • Do or Die Wrestling
    • DDW International Championship (1 time)
  • Flemish Wrestling Force
    • FWF Tag Team Championship (1 time) - with Jerry Sags
  • German Stampede Wrestling
    • GSW Heavyweight Championship (1 time)[18][19]
  • German Wrestling Promotion
    • GWP World Championship (1 time)
    • GWP WrestlingCorner.de Championship (1 time)[20]
  • Herts and Essex Wrestling
    • HEW Heavyweight Championship (2 times)
  • Insane Championship Wrestling
    • ICW Brass Knuckles Championship (1 time)
    • ICW/MWCW Mid-West Unified Tag Team Championship (1 time) - with Sexton Hardcastle
  • International Wrestling Association
  • Independent Wrestling Federation (Russia)
    • IWF World Championship (1 time)
  • International Catch Wrestling Alliance
    • ICWA World Heavyweight Championship (1 time)[21]
  • LDN Wrestling
    • LDN British Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • Outlaw Championship Wrestling
    • OCW Tag Team Championship (1 time) - with Sexton Hardcastle
  • Pennsylvania Championship Wrestling
    • PCW America's Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
    • Giorgio Foods Tag Team Tournament (1999) - with Jason Lee
  • Power of Wrestling
    • POW Intercontinental Championship (1 time)[22]
  • Pro Wrestling Fighters
    • PWF Buckhorn Wrestling Cup (2009)
  • Power Wrestling Entertainment
    • PWE World Championship (1 time)[23]
  • Pro Wrestling Illustrated
    • PWI ranked him #140 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 2009[24]
  • Pro Wrestling Showdown
    • PWS Heavyweight Championship (1 time)[25]
  • Pro Wrestling Xtreme
    • PWX Heavyweight Championship (1 time)[26]
  • Pan Pacific Wrestling Association
    • Pan Pacific Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • Scottish School Of Wrestling
    • SSW Hardcore Championship (1 time)
  • Swiss Wrestling Federation
    • SWF Powerhouse Championship (1 time)[27]
  • Total Nonstop Action Wrestling
  • World Wide Wrestling League
    • W3L Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • World Wrestling Professionals
  • World Wrestling Superstars
    • WWS Heavyweight Championship (1 time)
  • Wrestling-Family-Germany Promotion
    • WFG Championship (1 time)
  • YAWARA
    • YAWARA Championship (1 time)
  • Other titles
    • IMP Tag Team Championship (1 time)
    • GPW Continental Championship (2 times)
    • PPW World Super-Heavyweight Championship (1time)

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Joe E. Legend

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Joe E. Legend (born Joseph Edward Hitchen; September 2, 1969) is a Canadian professional wrestler and trainer, standing 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m) and weighing 275 lb (125 kg), renowned for his extensive international career spanning over three decades. Debuting in 1992, he has competed as a across promotions in , , , , and , earning acclaim as a versatile technician and powerhouse performer known for signature moves like The Legend and Trailblazer. Legend's most notable mainstream exposure came in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now ) from 2000 to 2001, where he performed under the ring name Just Joe, a jobber gimmick designed to instigate feuds and showcase other talent on shows like Sunday Night Heat. He later joined (TNA) in 2003 as part of the Red Shirt Security stable aligned with Jeff Jarrett's Planet Jarrett faction. Throughout his indie circuit tenure, Legend captured multiple world heavyweight titles, including the ACW World Wrestling Championship, GSW World Heavyweight Championship, and WWP World Heavyweight Championship, while also training wrestlers and participating in tournaments like the 2005 GSW Battlefield. Beyond the ring, Legend remains active as a wrestler and coach as of 2025, contributing to the next generation of talent in promotions like W3L.

Early life and training

Childhood and early influences

Joseph Edward Hitchen, professionally known as Joe E. Legend, was born on September 2, 1969, in , , . Details on his family background, including siblings or parental influences on athletic interests, are not publicly documented in available sources, though his 2025 may provide further insights. Growing up in during the 1980s, Hitchen was exposed to through televised WWF events and local Canadian promotions, which sparked his initial interest in the industry. His early hobbies included weight training and participation in and , building the physical foundation for his future career.

Wrestling training and debut

Joe E. Legend, born Joseph Edward Hitchen, began his formal wrestling training in 1990 at the age of 20, when he enrolled at Sully's Gym located at 53 Fraser Street in , , after conducting research to find a suitable facility. The gym, a historic venue originally established as the Athletic Club in the , had evolved into a hub for and later instruction. Under the mentorship of veteran trainers and , Legend honed his fundamental skills in a rigorous environment that emphasized technique and ring psychology. Hutchison, who had retired from active competition in 1990 but continued teaching at Sully's following Siki's departure, and Siki, a storied performer known for his work in North American territories, provided structured guidance that shaped Legend's early development. During these training sessions, Legend built lasting connections with fellow aspiring wrestlers Adam Copeland (later Edge) and Jay Reso (later Christian), who were also students under the same coaches and would go on to achieve global fame. Legend made his professional wrestling debut in 1992, performing in modest Canadian independent promotions under preliminary ring names including Billy Johnson and Joe Ace. These early appearances allowed him to apply his training in live settings, focusing on building experience against regional talent. At 6 ft 3 in (190 cm) tall, Legend's initial in-ring style stood out for its emphasis on athleticism as a and powerhouse, showcasing his from the outset despite his imposing physique. This approach, developed during his formative , highlighted his versatility and set the foundation for his evolving persona in the industry.

Professional wrestling career

Early career in Canada (1992–1997)

Joe E. Legend debuted in professional wrestling in 1992, initially competing in Canadian independent promotions under various ring names to build his experience. Early personas included Cowboy Billy Johnson in 1992 and Joe Ace from 1993 to 1994, where he wrestled in promotions such as TCW, focusing on fundamentals against local talents. By 1995, Legend adopted his primary , Joe E. Legend, and secured regular bookings in ICW and TCW, experimenting with high-flyer elements in his matches while establishing a win-loss record on the indie circuit. Drawing briefly from his training under and , he honed his style amid the demanding schedule of regional shows. In mid-1995, Legend partnered with Sexton Hardcastle to form the Sex and Violence, which quickly gained prominence in Canadian and cross-border independents. The duo captured the ICW/MWCW Mid-West Unified Championship on July 22, 1995, defeating and Chi Chi Cruz. This period marked Legend's transition from solo fundamentals to success, solidifying his reputation in Ontario's pre-internet wrestling scene.

European and international tours (1998–2005)

Joe E. Legend embarked on his first European tour in September 1998, secured through a booking by fellow wrestler Rhino, competing primarily in under the ring name XL Legend. He worked with independent promotions such as the , marking the beginning of his adaptation to the region's stiff strong style wrestling, which emphasized technical precision and hard-hitting exchanges over his Canadian high-flying background. This initial outing helped establish him as a versatile performer capable of integrating aerial maneuvers with grounded, European-influenced grappling. By the early 2000s, Legend expanded his European presence, particularly in the , where he affiliated with the (FWA) around 2004. In FWA, he challenged for the in high-profile matches, including a five-way bout and a two-out-of-three falls encounter against Williams in , , showcasing his ability to compete in intense, story-driven environments. He also engaged in work, teaming with partners like to defeat duos such as Jonny Angel and , further solidifying his reputation as a reliable high-flyer who could mesh with local talent in the promotion's fast-paced style. Concurrently, his 2000–2001 stint in the World Wrestling Federation overlapped briefly but did not interrupt his independent international momentum. Legend's international scope broadened beyond during this era, with key appearances in through International Wrestling Association (IWA) events in 2003, where he and partner Kevin Northcutt captured the IWA World Tag Team Championship on March 8 before losing it to in Bayamón on April 19. He ventured into early Asian spots, including multiple tours to starting in the early , competing against local high-flyers and adapting to the fast, acrobatic junior heavyweight divisions. These outings, combined with select matches in via independent circuits, highlighted his global appeal as a durable who thrived in diverse cultural and stylistic contexts, earning bookings across continents up to 2005.

World Wrestling Federation (2000–2001)

Joe E. Legend signed a developmental with the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) in June 2000, initially competing under his real in dark matches during tapings for secondary programs like WWF Jakked and Sunday Night Heat. These early appearances positioned him as enhancement talent, where he faced mid-card wrestlers such as and Scott Vick, often securing wins against local competitors but losing to established stars to build their momentum. By July 2000, Legend transitioned to the "Just Joe" , portraying an and backstage messenger who spread rumors to provoke confrontations between other wrestlers, primarily featured on to set up impromptu matches. This character emphasized his role as a relatable jobber, attempting high-risk maneuvers like dropkicks and crossbodies against larger opponents such as the in bouts, though he typically ended in defeat. Notable televised losses included submissions to for the on August 8, 2000, and a pinfall to in a Hardcore Championship match on October 30, 2000, highlighting his utility in elevating titleholders without personal victories. He also participated in house shows and occasional multi-man tags, such as teaming with to defeat the on a September 2000 taping. Legend's WWF run concluded with his release on March 3, 2001, amid roster reductions following the company's acquisitions of and assets, which expanded the talent pool and led to cuts for underutilized performers. He immediately returned to the independent circuit, continuing sporadic European tours alongside his North American bookings.

United States and other promotions (2003–2010)

Following his departure from the World Wrestling Federation in 2001, Joe E. Legend returned to the independent wrestling scene in the United States, beginning with a series of appearances in (TNA), then operating under the NWA banner. In mid-2003, Legend debuted in TNA on July 2 by aligning with and to attack , establishing himself as a heel enforcer. He quickly engaged in a with Jarrett, defeating him on July 16 via a baseball bat shot after a disqualification. Legend continued with victories over Altar Boy Luke and on July 23, but lost to Jarrett in a "guitar and bat on a pole" match on July 30, where Jarrett retrieved the guitar to secure the pinfall. Later that year, he teamed with in losses to Jarrett and on August 20, and participated in multi-man tags, including a win with Kevin Northcutt and Abyss over , , and Julio Dinero on December 17 in a steel cage match. In early 2004, Legend and Northcutt, billed as Red Shirt Security, pursued the in TNA. They earned a title shot by defeating (Chris Harris and ) on January 21 in a number one contenders match. On January 28, they captured the titles from 3-Live Kru (BG James, Chris Harris, and ) in a three-way match also involving Harris and Storm. Their reign lasted only one week, as and Abyss defeated them on February 4 in a handicap match after Abyss no-showed his original partner, leading to the titles being held up shortly thereafter due to controversy. This brief championship run highlighted Legend's role in TNA's tag division amid ongoing storylines involving Russo's faction. Transitioning to smaller independent promotions after TNA, Legend maintained a consistent presence on the U.S. circuit through the mid-2000s, often in tag team and mid-card roles. On December 12, 2004, he defeated Rico Montana in Ring Wars Carolina. In 2005, he won the Pro Wrestling Xtreme (PWX) Championship from Freakshow on December 11, showcasing his versatility in hardcore environments. He also competed in (ECWA), defeating Danny Jaxx on May 21, and Squared Circle Wrestling, beating Tornado on May 14. Legend's work extended briefly to non-European international spots, including an early preview of Eastern markets. In 2006, he debuted in at the Independent Wrestling Federation's Wrestliada event in on October 7, facing in a singles match as part of a card featuring local and international talent. This appearance marked his initial foray into Russian wrestling, blending U.S.-style brawling with emerging global opportunities. By 2010, Legend's U.S. indie runs tapered as he focused more on international tours, but his mid-card pushes in promotions like NWA territories and solidified his reputation as a reliable veteran performer.

World Wrestling Professionals (2007–2014)

Joe E. Legend began working with World Wrestling Professionals (WWP), a South African promotion, in , conducting annual tours that featured him in prominent matches across the country and beyond. These tours helped sustain his career during a period of sporadic appearances in other promotions, with WWP providing consistent international exposure through nationally broadcast television. During his tenure, Legend captured the WWP World Heavyweight Championship on January 10, 2009, by defeating (later known as ) in a match for the vacant title in , . He held the championship for 182 days until it was vacated on July 11, 2009, marking his sole reign in the promotion. Legend often portrayed a dominant foreign , engaging in high-profile bouts against local competitors, such as his 2008 victory over South African wrestler Dameon Duke on an episode of WWP Thunderstrike. Legend continued annual commitments to WWP through 2014, including a main event appearance against Kilimanjaro in 2013 and an interfering role during a tour in in August 2014. These outings highlighted intercontinental rivalries, with Legend's Canadian background contrasting against African talent to build audience interest. His involvement ended after the 2014 tour, coinciding with shifts in the promotion's scheduling and roster dynamics.

Independent circuit (2017–present)

Following a hiatus from regular competition, Joe E. Legend returned to the independent circuit in 2017 with an appearance for Pro Wrestling Showdown (PWS) in , marking his re-entry into sporadic in-ring action as a seasoned veteran. This comeback bout highlighted his enduring presence on the North American indie scene, where he began incorporating a mentoring dynamic in select matches, guiding younger competitors through structured encounters to emphasize technical prowess and storytelling. In 2019, Legend expanded his freelance schedule to , signing on with Germany's Unlimited Wrestling promotion for a series of high-profile bouts that often pitted him against emerging talents. A notable example was his Unlimited Championship qualifying match against Cem Kaplan at IceBreaker 2019, showcasing Legend's veteran style against the up-and-coming wrestler's aggressive offense in a competitive opener. These appearances, including additional clashes with rising stars like Alpha Kevin and members of Der Schwinger Club, underscored Legend's role as a reliable draw for international indies, frequently resulting in hard-fought losses that elevated his opponents' profiles while affirming his technical reliability at age 50. Legend continued his intermittent European tours into the 2020s, maintaining a focus on marquee matchups. On , 2022, at Unlimited Wrestling's Wrestival Tag 2 event, he challenged John Klinger for the Unlimited Championship in a 15-minute main event bout, delivering a power-based that highlighted his enduring physicality despite the title-eluding defeat. This , part of Wrestival's prestigious two-day format, reinforced Legend's status as a gatekeeper on the German indie circuit. By 2025, at age 56, Legend's schedule had shifted toward part-time wrestling, blending select high-stakes appearances with freelance training opportunities across promotions. On April 17, 2025, he competed for Romanian Pro Wrestling (RPW) at WrestleFest 4: Global Resistance, facing Noah Walker in a No. 1 contender's match for the RPW , where the veteran aimed to secure a title opportunity against the promotion's top heavyweights. This encounter exemplified Legend's ongoing evolution into a sporadic but impactful presence, prioritizing quality over quantity in his late-career indie runs while leveraging his experience to mentor the next generation on the global circuit.

Championships and accomplishments

Major championship reigns

Joe E. Legend captured the IWA Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship on March 8, 2003, in , by defeating Glamour Boy Shane (wrestling as Nord), marking a significant achievement during his tour. He held the title for 42 days before losing it to Xavier on April 19, 2003. In early 2004, Legend teamed with Kevin Northcutt as The Red Shirt Security to win the on January 28 in , defeating BG James and Ron Killings (of the 3-Live Kru). Their reign lasted only seven days, ending on February 4 when they dropped the titles to A.J. Styles and Abyss in a weekly event. Legend's most prominent singles title run came in World Wrestling Professionals (WWP), where he won the WWP World Heavyweight Championship on January 10, 2009, by defeating PJ Black (Justin Gabriel) in a main event match in , . He defended the title successfully against several top heels, including international challengers, holding it for 182 days until vacating it on July 11, 2009, due to scheduling conflicts during his global tours. Although sources indicate a single formal reign in WWP, Legend maintained a dominant presence in the promotion through 2012, often positioned as champion-level talent in key storylines. During his extensive European tours from 1998 to 2005, Legend secured several notable singles titles in independent promotions, establishing himself as a top foreign draw. These included the GSW World Heavyweight Championship, won on April 8, 2006 (extending his European momentum), which he held for 287 days while defending against local powerhouses in German Superstars of Wrestling events. Earlier highlights featured the CWA European Tag Team Championship in 1998 with Rhino Richards (as Joe X-Legend), held from October 10 to December 31 for 82 days, showcasing his versatility in team competition across continental circuits. Additional reigns in promotions like Athletik Club Wrestling during this period solidified his reputation, with defenses emphasizing his technical and powerhouse style against diverse European rosters. Notable later reigns include the ICWA Heavyweight Championship (September 22, 2007 – December 16, 2011; 1,546 days) and DWA World Heavyweight Championship (November 14, 2009 – February 25, 2012; 833 days), highlighting his sustained dominance in international independent wrestling.

Tournament victories and honors

Joe E. Legend's tournament successes highlight his versatility as a competitor in both and singles formats across independent promotions. On November 5, 1999, Legend partnered with to win the Championship Wrestling (PCW) Giorgio Foods Tag Team Tournament, defeating multiple teams in a bracket-style event that showcased their teamwork and in-ring chemistry. In the singles division, claimed victory in the Prairie Wrestling Alliance (PPWA) Heavyweight Title Tournament on October 24, 2004, navigating a series of elimination matches to earn the promotion's top championship. further demonstrated his international prowess by winning the German Stampede Wrestling (GSW) tournament on November 5, 2005, a high-stakes battle royal-style event that positioned him as a key figure in European circuits. These accomplishments reflect his ability to excel in competitive formats beyond standard title defenses.

Media and publications

Other media appearances

Joe E. Legend has made several appearances in non-wrestling media, primarily through interviews discussing his wrestling career. Legend appeared on Canadian television in 1992 alongside fellow aspiring wrestler Adam Copeland (later known as ) during a talk show segment where they questioned WWF Champion on breaking into the industry. The interaction, captured on video, provided early insight into Legend's career aspirations and has since resurfaced as a notable historical clip in wrestling media. In recent years, Legend has been a guest on various reflecting on his professional journey. He joined the GNW in July 2023 to discuss his experiences in , TNA, and international tours. Earlier, in 2021, he participated in a career shoot interview on The TV, covering his tag team runs and work. These audio appearances have allowed Legend to share behind-the-scenes stories from his over three-decade career.

Published works

Joe E. Legend's published works include two autobiographies released in 2025. His first, BOOK OF LEGENDS, was published on September 18, 2025, as a Kindle edition. The book chronicles his wrestling career from indie promotions to and TNA, including personal growth, family life, and stories involving wrestlers like Edge and Christian. His second autobiography, No I Don't Know You Either, was released on October 20, 2025, as both a Kindle edition and . The book chronicles his journey, beginning with his early training alongside future stars Edge and Christian in the early 1990s, and extending through his extensive global tours across promotions in , , , and . It features firsthand accounts of his experiences in major organizations like the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and (TNA), alongside stories from independent circuits in —particularly (FMW)—and lesser-known territories such as , while addressing personal challenges including injuries, career setbacks, and the demands of life on the road over three decades. Prior to this, Legend contributed occasional articles and columns to Canadian wrestling media, including SLAM! Wrestling, where he detailed his international matches and training insights starting in the early 2000s. These pieces, often focused on his travels and behind-the-scenes perspectives, appeared sporadically in outlets like SLAM! before 2010, providing early written reflections on his evolving career. The autobiography's promotion in late 2025 included appearances on podcasts, such as the November episode of the Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling, where Legend discussed its contents and tied it to his ongoing independent matches.

Personal life and legacy

Family and personal details

Joe E. Legend, whose real name is Joseph Edward Hitchen, married Svenia Hitchen in 2003. The couple met during Legend's European wrestling tours in . Legend and his wife have twin sons, Connor Logan and Maverick Joshua, born in the late 2000s. In a interview, he described the boys as toddlers and his primary source of inspiration. Legend was born and raised in , , . He balances his ongoing wrestling commitments and travel with family life, noting that fatherhood has influenced his career choices to prioritize time at home. Outside of wrestling, Legend maintains a fitness regimen essential to his profession and enjoys family-oriented activities with his and sons.

Training career and legacy

Following his prominent stints in major promotions like and TNA in the early 2000s, Joe E. Legend has been involved in training roles since the early 2000s, focusing on independent wrestling schools across and to develop emerging talent. In , he has conducted seminars and provided guidance to wrestlers at various indie academies, including contributions to programs that emphasize foundational techniques for aspiring professionals. In , Legend serves as one of the primary trainers at Wrestling Gym Harz in , where he instructs students on in-ring fundamentals and prepares them for competitive opportunities. He has led specialized seminars at the facility, such as one in April 2022, targeting both beginners and active competitors. Legend's mentorship extends to promotions like Unlimited Wrestling, where he not only competes but also trains talents, drawing from his extensive international experience to teach adaptable styles suitable for diverse physiques. His own reputation as a versatile performer despite his 6'3" (190 cm) frame has influenced his coaching, particularly in promoting safe execution of aerial maneuvers for taller wrestlers, helping them incorporate dynamic elements without compromising technique. Notable trainees under his guidance include German wrestlers like Herbi Vara and Dominik Fischer, who have advanced in European independents, as well as earlier students such as , illustrating his long-term impact on the next generation. As a global veteran with over three decades in the industry, Legend is regarded as an underrated figure whose adaptability across continents—from and Japan to South Africa—has earned him high praise in wrestling communities. On Cagematch, he holds an overall rating of 8.41 from 138 votes, with users highlighting his international success and technical prowess, including a specific 9.0 commendation for his high-flying ability relative to his size. His legacy includes fostering safer, more versatile training methods that bridge traditional powerhouse styles with modern athleticism. In 2025, Legend contributed to the wrestling community by releasing his autobiography No I Don't Know You Either, which chronicles his career journey from fan to and serves as an educational for aspiring wrestlers, offering insights into perseverance, global touring, and industry navigation. The book underscores his role in preserving wrestling knowledge and inspiring newcomers through real-world anecdotes rather than theoretical advice.

References

  1. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=226&name=Joe%2BE.%2BLegend
  2. https://www.thesmackdownhotel.com/wrestlers/joe-e-legend
  3. https://slamwrestling.net/interviews/joe-e-legend-has-a-lot-to-say/
  4. https://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profile/joe-e-legend/
  5. https://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=bios&wrestler=118
  6. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/joe-e-legend-864.html
  7. https://slamwrestling.net/features/hulkamania-didnt-run-wild-on-young-joe-e-legend/
  8. https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2011/07/17/my-early-case-of-macho-madness/
  9. https://slamwrestling.net/features/behind-the-gimmick-table-babyface-joe-e-legend-sells-bad-guy-not-so-much/
  10. https://slamwrestling.net/features/joe-e-legend-says-thanks-to-sweet-daddy/
  11. https://www.thestar.com/news/gta/historic-sully-s-boxing-gym-lays-down-roots-in-a-new-neighbourhood/article_4001dfd8-7618-5527-8382-82f90bc6f9c7.html
  12. https://slamwrestling.net/features/mat-matters-when-the-son-runs-into-a-rhino/
  13. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=226&name=Joe+E.+Legend
  14. https://slamwrestling.net/index.php/2013/05/22/maritimes-forecast-thunderbolts-from-ron-hutchison/
  15. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=6126&page=4
  16. https://www.prowrestlinghistory.com/indy/mwcw-icw/mwcwtitles.html
  17. https://slamwrestling.net/interviews/joe-e-legends-global-resume-very-impressive/
  18. https://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/joe-e-legend-864.html
  19. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/joe-e-legend-864.html?prom_id=1
  20. https://www.thesportster.com/wwe-forgotten-gimmicks-didnt-last-long/
  21. https://www.ewrestlingnews.com/news/just-joe-on-saying-he-could-kick-hhhs-a-he-never-spoke-to-me-again
  22. http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/joe-e-legend-864.html?prom_id=12&year=2003&res=25
  23. https://www.wrestling-titles.com/nwa/world/nwa-t.html
  24. https://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=shows&show=0&details=&wert=30607&suchbegriff=&jahr=&letter=&nr=&showart=0&suchart=0&suchartnr=0&suchartnr2=0&suchbegriffart=0&suchartart=0&suchartartnr=0&suchartartnr2=0&suchartnr3=0&suchartnr3art=0&suchbegriff3=&suchbegriff3art=0
  25. https://www.themoviedb.org/person/1225562-joseph-edward-hitchen
  26. https://m.dropkickd.com/wrestler/legend
  27. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=1314
  28. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=226&page=11
  29. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2HiWxpP9hsY
  30. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0LkcknW3No
  31. https://slamwrestling.net/features/joe-who-the-hell-are-you/
  32. https://www.wrestlingdata.com/index.php?befehl=bios&wrestler=118&bild=1&details=7
  33. https://unlimitedwrestling.de/watch-unlimited-wrestling-icebreaker-2019/
  34. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqyaVWQIiGQ
  35. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k30REl_3rw
  36. https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=351463
  37. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qlUXoyE97iY
  38. https://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/kevin-northcutt-872.html
  39. https://swnscotland.com/2019/06/12/wrestler-spotlight-joe-e-legend/
  40. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0386897/
  41. https://www.givemesport.com/1773697-wwe-footage-of-edge-asking-bret-hart-how-to-get-signed-way-back-in-1992-when-he-was-19/
  42. https://www.wrestlingnewssource.com/news/71587/WATCH-Footage-Resurfaces-Of-Edge-Asking-Bret-Hart-For/
  43. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sgADc6VOsS8
  44. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MA5vN4JZ8RE
  45. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JXMe_5SIswU
  46. https://www.amazon.com/BOOK-LEGENDS-Joe-Legend-ebook/dp/B0FRQX9QZK
  47. https://www.amazon.co.uk/No-Dont-Know-You-Either-ebook/dp/B0FTFZ2N7R
  48. https://www.facebook.com/groups/549452901902577/posts/3142241525957022/
  49. https://podscan.fm/podcasts/two-man-power-trip-of-wrestling-podcast/episodes/tmptow-joe-e-legend-1
  50. https://slamwrestling.net/features/joe-e-legend/
  51. https://www.wrestleview.com/misc-news/5837-interview-with-joe-e-legend/
  52. https://www.facebook.com/groups/262800520490933/posts/9719256078178616/
  53. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Wrestler_Joe_E._Legend_at_a_Rumble_Wrestling_Match_in_Thale%2C_Germany_with_the_Unlimited_Wrestling_Promotion_in_September_2022.jpg
  54. https://www.facebook.com/WrestlingGymHarz/
  55. https://www.amazon.ca/No-Dont-Know-You-Either/dp/B0FTSXTHV1
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