A Conversation with Tommy McGrogan

Thomas McGrogan is a senior at Centenary University majoring in communications in his last semester. McGrogan is a man with many talents and has a vast knowledge of pro wrestling and meeting pro wrestlers and celebrities throughout his life. 

But, he truly cannot be summed up in just two sentences. There’s so much to McGrogan. So, I interviewed him about his background, his path to choosing  Centenary for his undergraduate college, as well as his celebrity likes and dislikes. 

Why did you choose to come to Centenary University?

Coming to Centenary University was a last-minute decision. College and money are synonymous with each other, and I didn’t think I’d be able to afford four more years of college. 

Two weeks before the semester started, I looked into how much I’d be paying if I considered going back to school, and it was around $750.00 per semester. I couldn’t turn that down, so I came back to finish out my education. Centenary was local. My life and career were here, too. So, it made sense to stay in Hackettstown, and not venture off elsewhere.

Do you have an occupation outside of being a student?

Yes, I have three jobs. I work for a credit card processing company. I am also almost a full-time graphic designer. I work at a bar, too. I used to have a career as a promoter, working with wrestling talent, but after COVID, I went off the road. Next weekend will be my first time working as a promoter in Philadelphia at a wrestling convention since I took a break.

Who is your favorite wrestler of all time and why?

John Cena is my favorite wrestler of all time. He was my childhood hero. More than that, his work from a sell and deliver standpoint is the best of all time. He’s also fantastic on the microphone. If you want to take his talents outside the ring, he is the number one celebrity to grant the most wishes of all time. There are several things that you can look at that accumulate to make John Cena the greatest of all time. WWE even calls him the GOAT whenever he pops his head in for a surprise appearance.

Who is a wrestler you dislike and why?

Bret Hart. His work as a wrestler was fine. It’s everything about his post-career that makes me dislike him. He’s a bitter veteran of the business who has nothing complimentary to say about the up-and-coming talent that are walking the path he paved. You’re supposed to talk good about them to help the business grow, not bash it at every opportunity that you get.

Do you want Cody Rhodes to finish his story at Wrestlemania?

WWE has invested two full years into the story arch of Cody Rhodes. Last year, they decided not to make him champion. I think that was a mistake, considering how big of a risk they were taking by not doing it. The fans have surprisingly stayed behind him for the year that it’s been. They have to crown him this year! I want them to make him champion this year. If they don’t, I think Cody will lose his momentum with the die-hard fans, and will lose his stock in the eyes of the casual viewer.

Tell me about your favorite experience meeting a celebrity.

My favorite experience has to be with Mike Tyson. He’s larger than life, and his presence and aura are captivating. That was an experience I’ll never forget. 

Tell me about your least favorite experience meeting a celebrity.

The worst celebrity that I have met has to be Batista. He didn’t say a word to me, not even hello. He signed my poster, handed it to the promoter to give back to me, and sent me on my way.  I was eight years old. He was another childhood hero of mine. 

Who recommended you to join The Cyclone Chronicle?

Lucas Perone and Joe Hammway recommended the course! They were extremely complimentary of Professor Zatta and the class.

What do you plan on doing after you graduate?

I plan on doing what I’m currently doing. I’ve found a lot of rewards in having three jobs. I’m working the most I ever have, but having the most fun I’ve ever had. Change is only good for the people who need it, and I don’t feel like I’m in need of any change. I’m incredibly comfortable. 

How was your experience at Centenary?

I had my ups and downs. But, overall, I loved it. I made some lifelong friends here, and that, in itself, is enough to call these crazy two years, a great experience.