In the world of television, where personalities often clash and moments become legendary, few stories are as captivating as the unexpected rise of Tyrus, the former NWA World Heavyweight Champion turned Fox News contributor. Known for his larger-than-life persona and no-nonsense commentary, Tyrus’ journey to Fox News was shaped by one pivotal moment—an unforgettable prank, or “troll,” orchestrated by Greg Gutfeld. That prank, which initially caught him off guard, ended up launching Tyrus into the media spotlight and transforming his career in ways he never expected.

During a recent podcast with Fox News’ Janice Dean, Tyrus opened up about how this epic moment unfolded and how it shaped the trajectory of his career. For many, this behind-the-scenes story is a masterclass in humor, humility, and the unpredictable magic of live television. So, let’s revisit the story of how a mischievous moment led to one of Fox News’ most beloved personalities.

The First Encounter: Tyrus Meets Gutfeld

Tyrus, whose real name is George Murdoch, was no stranger to the spotlight before his Fox News days. As a towering figure in professional wrestling, Tyrus had captivated fans with his larger-than-life presence and undeniable charisma. But when he made his debut on Gutfeld! in 2018, he was still a rookie in the media world, unfamiliar with the chaotic and often unpredictable environment of late-night television.

Enter Greg Gutfeld, the sharp-witted host of Gutfeld! who is known for pushing boundaries and making the most of spontaneous, unscripted moments. Recognizing the potential in Tyrus, Gutfeld decided to pull a stunt that would go down in history—one that would inadvertently change Tyrus’ life forever.

The Legendary Troll: A Game-Changing Moment

While the details of the “troll” remain somewhat elusive, Tyrus has repeatedly described the incident as a defining moment of his career. On the set of Gutfeld!, Tyrus, the 6’7” wrestling titan, was invited to join a panel of seasoned commentators, all of whom were experienced in navigating the unpredictable world of live TV. Gutfeld, ever the master of mischief, set the stage for a moment that would test Tyrus’ composure. What followed was a mixture of humor, chaos, and quick thinking that led to an unforgettable reaction from the audience—and a huge shift in Tyrus’ media career.

As Tyrus shared in his interview with Janice Dean, the prank caught him completely off guard. “I was just trying to keep up with everyone,” Tyrus said, reflecting on his first few appearances. “But Greg, with his sharp wit, saw something in me that I didn’t even realize at the time. He threw a curveball, and I just had to roll with it.”

Despite the unexpected nature of the moment, Tyrus quickly gained recognition for his ability to handle Gutfeld’s antics with ease, showing both humor and authenticity in his responses. The audience responded positively, and Gutfeld, impressed with Tyrus’ quick thinking and relatable personality, began to invite him back to the show more frequently.

The Gutfeld Effect: From Guest to Mainstay

The moment that started as a troll quickly became the foundation for Tyrus’ growing role in the Fox News family. His appearances on Gutfeld! became more regular, with Tyrus’ brand of humor and unapologetic commentary earning him a dedicated fanbase. As he continued to contribute to the show, he became a beloved fixture in the Gutfeld! lineup, where his larger-than-life personality and witty comebacks helped elevate the show’s irreverent, unpredictable style.

Tyrus’ background as a professional wrestler gave him a unique edge in the media world. He approached television with the same fearless attitude that had served him in the ring. But unlike scripted wrestling drama, live television required him to adapt to ever-changing circumstances—and the “troll” moment had unknowingly prepared him for that.

Greg Gutfeld’s role in Tyrus’ success can’t be overstated. Tyrus often credits Gutfeld for showing him how to navigate the world of late-night TV, and he is quick to call Gutfeld! “the greatest show on earth.” The two developed a close friendship, built on mutual respect and a shared sense of humor. Gutfeld’s ability to push boundaries while maintaining a sense of fun and authenticity became a model for Tyrus to follow as he honed his own voice on Fox News.

Tyrus’ Rise to Prominence: The Road to Fox News

Tyrus’ rise to prominence on Fox News didn’t happen overnight. After his time as a professional wrestler, he transitioned into the media world, initially appearing as a guest and commentator on various Fox shows. His natural charisma, coupled with his sharp political insights, quickly made him a favorite of viewers. Tyrus’ unique background and his willingness to speak his mind earned him a spot as a regular co-host on Gutfeld! and, eventually, a permanent role on the network.

But beyond his on-air success, Tyrus’ growth as a media personality has also been a journey of self-discovery. His rise through the ranks of Fox News speaks to his ability to reinvent himself and adapt to an ever-changing industry. Tyrus has seamlessly blended his background in wrestling with his newfound role as a commentator, using humor and relatable storytelling to connect with viewers.

The Friendship That Defined Tyrus’ Career

At the heart of Tyrus’ success is his friendship with Greg Gutfeld. The two have become more than just colleagues—they’ve formed a deep bond based on mutual respect and shared experiences. Tyrus often speaks about how Gutfeld mentored him, helping him navigate the unpredictable world of live television. The pair’s chemistry is evident on-screen, where their playful banter and sharp comebacks have become a hallmark of the show.

For Tyrus, Gutfeld’s mentorship was more than just professional guidance—it was about learning how to stay true to himself while navigating the challenges of the media world. As Tyrus reflected on his career, he praised Gutfeld for teaching him how to handle the highs and lows of fame with humor and authenticity. “Greg gave me a voice,” Tyrus said. “He showed me how to be myself, even in a world that wants you to be something else.”

The Legacy of the Troll: Tyrus’ Lasting Impact

Looking back on that pivotal moment in 2018, it’s clear that the “troll” was more than just a prank—it was the spark that ignited Tyrus’ career in the media world. The moment helped him find his footing on Gutfeld! and catapulted him into the Fox News spotlight. His career since then has been marked by his unique voice, his quick wit, and his ability to connect with his audience on a personal level.

The “troll” moment, though often humorously retold, also symbolizes the unpredictable nature of Tyrus’ career. From a professional wrestler to a beloved media figure, Tyrus has embraced every challenge with confidence, humor, and authenticity. As he continues to evolve as a Fox News personality, fans can expect even more from this larger-than-life figure, whose journey from wrestling to political commentary remains one of the most fascinating in recent media history.

Conclusion: The Tyrus Story Continues

Tyrus’ journey from NWA World Heavyweight Champion to Fox News contributor is a story of growth, resilience, and humor. What started with an unexpected troll from Greg Gutfeld has turned into a career that has resonated with millions of viewers. His blend of sharp political commentary, humor, and relatability has made him one of the standout stars on Fox News, and his bond with Gutfeld remains a testament to the power of mentorship and friendship in shaping one’s career.

As Tyrus continues to navigate the world of cable news, his fans eagerly anticipate what’s next for him. Whether he’s delivering political commentary, sharing his unique perspective on cultural issues, or simply adding his trademark humor to a conversation, Tyrus has proven that the unexpected moments can often lead to the most lasting success. The troll that changed his life remains a defining moment of his career—and it’s clear that Tyrus’ story is just beginning.