- Today
- Holidays
- Birthdays
- Reminders
- Cities
- Atlanta
- Austin
- Baltimore
- Berwyn
- Beverly Hills
- Birmingham
- Boston
- Brooklyn
- Buffalo
- Charlotte
- Chicago
- Cincinnati
- Cleveland
- Columbus
- Dallas
- Denver
- Detroit
- Fort Worth
- Houston
- Indianapolis
- Knoxville
- Las Vegas
- Los Angeles
- Louisville
- Madison
- Memphis
- Miami
- Milwaukee
- Minneapolis
- Nashville
- New Orleans
- New York
- Omaha
- Orlando
- Philadelphia
- Phoenix
- Pittsburgh
- Portland
- Raleigh
- Richmond
- Rutherford
- Sacramento
- Salt Lake City
- San Antonio
- San Diego
- San Francisco
- San Jose
- Seattle
- Tampa
- Tucson
- Washington
Lutz Today
By the People, for the People
Henry Godwin Reflects on Storied Wrestling Career in Interview
Former Godwinns star discusses character origins, wrestling politics, and iconic moments from his time in WCW and WWE.
Jan. 29, 2026 at 8:55pm
Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›
In a recent interview on Wrestling Epicenter, former professional wrestler Henry Godwin (Mark Canterbury) provided a candid look into his decades-long career, from the creation of his 'Shanghai Pierce' persona in WCW to the evolution of the popular Godwinns tag team in WWE. Godwin discussed the importance of character development, the differences in workplace politics between the two companies, and memorable moments like the signature 'Slop Drop' move and a brutal Hog Pen match with Triple H.
Why it matters
The interview offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the wrestling industry, highlighting the creative process behind character development and the challenges many talented performers face in navigating the political landscape to reach the top tier. It also sheds light on the physical toll the sport can take, with Godwin's career impacted by a serious neck injury.
The details
Godwin's journey began with Dusty Rhodes' creation of the 'Shanghai Pierce' persona in WCW, which later evolved into the 'Texicans' tag team. The transition to the Godwinns character in WWE was a direct result of a conversation with Vince McMahon, who recognized Godwin's rural upbringing. While Godwin felt WCW was more politically charged, he noted that WWE had its own internal dynamics, with Arn Anderson advising them to move north to avoid being used to elevate other talent. The interview also revealed the origins of the Godwinns' signature 'Slop Drop' move, which predated Sting's 'Scorpion Death Drop'.
- Godwin's neck injury occurred during a match with the Legion of Doom involving the Doomsday Device.
- Godwin will be appearing at Grapplecon 4 in Lutz, Florida on April 11, 2026.
The players
Henry Godwin
Former professional wrestler known for his work as part of the Godwinns tag team in WCW and WWE.
Dusty Rhodes
Legendary wrestler and creative mind who developed the 'Shanghai Pierce' persona for Godwin in WCW.
Vince McMahon
Chairman and CEO of WWE, who recognized Godwin's rural upbringing and helped create the Godwinns character.
Arn Anderson
Veteran wrestler who advised Godwin and his tag team partner to move from WCW to WWE to avoid being used to elevate other talent.
Triple H
WWE superstar who had a brutal Hog Pen match with Godwin that left a lasting impression on both competitors.
What they’re saying
“Vince Russo reportedly believed that tag team titles shouldn't be held by 'hillbillies'.”
— Vince Russo
What’s next
Godwin will be appearing at Grapplecon 4 in Lutz, Florida on April 11, 2026, where he will be joined by other wrestling legends.
The takeaway
The interview with Henry Godwin provides a unique perspective on the challenges and politics of professional wrestling, highlighting the importance of character development, the physical toll of the sport, and the evolving demographics of wrestling fandom. It serves as a valuable resource for wrestling historians and fans alike.
