Enzo Amore

{{short description|American professional wrestler and rapper (born 1986)}} {{Use American English|date=July 2025}} {{Use mdy dates|date=February 2026}} {{Infobox professional wrestler | name = Enzo Amore | image = NZo and Bully Ray (cropped).jpg | caption = Amore in February 2022 | birthname = Eric Arndt | birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1986|12|8}}<ref name="IWD profile">{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/enzo-amore-9427.html|title=Enzo Amore: Profile & Match Listing|website=profightdb|access-date=May 24, 2015|archive-date=May 9, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150509043243/http://www.profightdb.com/wrestlers/enzo-amore-9427.html|url-status=live}}</ref> | birth_place = Hackensack, New Jersey, U.S. | residence = | names = Enzo Amore<ref name="WWE profile">{{cite web|title=Enzo Amore profile|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/enzoamore|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171223004724/http://www.wwe.com/superstars/enzo-amore|archive-date=December 23, 2017|url-status=dead|publisher=WWE|access-date=April 18, 2018}}</ref><br/>Eric Anthony<ref name="IWD profile"/><br/>nZo<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1158637/road-dogg-speaks-on-the-potential-of-enzo-amore/ |title=Road Dogg Speaks on the Potential of Enzo Amore |date=January 9, 2023 |access-date=May 19, 2024 |archive-date=May 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519113017/https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1158637/road-dogg-speaks-on-the-potential-of-enzo-amore/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2019/08/enzo-amore-on-interesting-plans-for-friday-ring-return-658484/ |title=Enzo Amore Says He is Reinventing Himself |date=August 15, 2019 |access-date=May 19, 2024 |archive-date=May 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519113015/https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2019/08/enzo-amore-on-interesting-plans-for-friday-ring-return-658484/ |url-status=live }}</ref><br/>'''Real1'''<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.postwrestling.com/2023/08/15/real1-enzo-amore-grateful-to-be-making-njpw-debut-guarantees-hell-end-up-at-tokyo-dome-if-he-gets-chance-to-do-what-i-do/ |title=Real1/Enzo Amore grateful to be making NJPW debut, guarantees he'll end up at Tokyo Dome if he gets chance to 'do what I do' |date=August 15, 2023 |access-date=May 19, 2024 |archive-date=July 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240711165739/https://www.postwrestling.com/2023/08/15/real1-enzo-amore-grateful-to-be-making-njpw-debut-guarantees-hell-end-up-at-tokyo-dome-if-he-gets-chance-to-do-what-i-do/ |url-status=live }}</ref> | height = 5 ft 11 in<ref name="WWE profile"/> | weight = 200 lb<ref name="WWE profile"/> | billed = Hackensack, New Jersey<ref name="WWE profile"/> | trainer = WWE Performance Center | debut = October 25, 2012<ref name="IWD profile"/> }}

'''Eric Arndt''' (born December 8, 1986) is an American professional wrestler. He is performing on the independent circuit under the ring name '''Real1'''. He is best known for his tenure in WWE under the ring name '''Enzo Amore''' and came to prominence for his partnership with Big Cass, whom he teamed with from 2013 to 2017. Together, they won the NXT Year-End Award for Tag Team of the Year in 2015. He was later moved to the ''205 Live'' brand, where he was a two-time WWE Cruiserweight Champion. Since leaving WWE for controversial reasons in January 2018, he has also embarked on a rap music career under the name '''Real1'''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://music.apple.com/us/album/rosemarys-baby-pt-1-happy-birthday/1442672292|title=Rosemary's Baby Pt. 1: Happy Birthday by nZo|website=iTunes|date=November 18, 2018|access-date=November 19, 2018|archive-date=November 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181120100904/https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/rosemarys-baby-pt-1-happy-birthday/1442672292|url-status=live}}</ref>.

== Early life == Eric Arndt was born in Hackensack, New Jersey,<ref name="North Jersey">{{cite web|last1=Locicero|first1=Anthony|title=Where are they now? Former Waldwick football player Eric Arndt|url=http://www.northjersey.com/sports/where-are-they-now-former-waldwick-football-player-eric-arndt-1.611423?page=all|access-date=June 28, 2014|archive-date=June 30, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140630144157/http://www.northjersey.com/sports/where-are-they-now-former-waldwick-football-player-eric-arndt-1.611423?page=all}}</ref> on December 8, 1986.<ref>{{Cite web |date=January 23, 2018 |title=Enzo Amore - Wrestler |url=https://www.tvinsider.com/people/enzo-amore/ |access-date=June 19, 2024 |website=TV Insider |language=en-US |archive-date=May 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519120435/https://www.tvinsider.com/people/enzo-amore/ |url-status=live }}</ref> He is of German descent. Arndt grew up in Waldwick, New Jersey, where he attended Julia A. Traphagen School, Crescent School and Waldwick High School, having played football at the latter school.<ref name="North Jersey"/> Arndt continued his football career at Division III (NCAA) Salisbury University, playing linebacker and safety for the Sea Gulls from 2007 to 2009.<ref name="North Jersey"/><ref name="WWE Realest 1"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Football – 2 – Eric Arndt|url=http://www.suseagulls.com/sports/fball/2009-10/bios/arndt_eric|publisher=Salisbury Sea Gulls|access-date=June 29, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091008051534/http://www.suseagulls.com/sports/fball/2009-10/bios/arndt_eric|archive-date=October 8, 2009}}</ref> Arndt ultimately earned a degree in journalism.<ref name="North Jersey"/> He formerly worked as a DJ, a ticket salesman for the New York Jets,<ref name="WWE Realest 1"/> a piano mover, and a manager at a local Hooters.

== Professional wrestling career == === WWE (2012–2018)=== ==== Early career (2012–2013) ==== Arndt had no prior wrestling experience before WWE signed him.<ref name=chad>{{cite web|last1=Tully|first1=Louis|title=The Chad Dukes Wrestling Show with Enzo Amore|url=http://chaddukeswrestlingshow.com/2015/01/23/the-chad-dukes-wrestling-show-interview-with-enzo-amore|access-date=February 7, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150207091259/http://chaddukeswrestlingshow.com/2015/01/23/the-chad-dukes-wrestling-show-interview-with-enzo-amore|archive-date=February 7, 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> He had trained with Joe DeFranco at the DeFranco's Training Systems gym in Wyckoff, New Jersey since the age of 16. By chance, WWE executive Triple H also started training with DeFranco; Arndt, a lifelong fan of professional wrestling, made a compilation video of himself doing various exercises and cutting a promo. When DeFranco showed the video to Triple H, Arndt was given a tryout at WWE,<ref name=chad/> ultimately resulting in his signing.<ref name="North Jersey"/> In August 2012, WWE signed Arndt, who then started using the ring name Eric Anthony.<ref name=ericanthony>{{cite web|last1=Scherer|first1=Dave|title=New WWE signings, the next step for former WWE Diva|url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=70993|publisher=PWInsider|access-date=June 29, 2014|archive-date=July 14, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714225147/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=70993|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2012, he was given the ring name of Enzo Amore when he debuted in WWE's developmental system NXT as a wrestler.<ref name="North Jersey"/><ref name="Old NXT profile">{{cite web|title=Enzo Amore – old NXT profile|url=http://www.fcwwrestling.info/Roster/Enzo-Amore.html|publisher=NXT Wrestling|access-date=June 28, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121101022954/http://www.fcwwrestling.info/Roster/Enzo-Amore.html|archive-date=November 1, 2012}}</ref>

====Teaming with Big Cass (2013–2017)==== {{Main|Enzo and Cass}} [[File:Cassady-Amore.jpg|left|thumb|upright|Amore (right) with Colin Cassady at WrestleMania Axxess in March 2015]] On May 22, 2013, Amore debuted on NXT television as a heel, portraying an Italian American who is described as a "stereotypical cocky, Jersey Shore loudmouth" and an "outsized version of the man playing the part",<ref name="North Jersey"/> where he was squashed by Mason Ryan.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=James's WWE NXT report 5/15 & 5/22: El Generico debuts, O'Brian beats two NXT releases in same match, Bray Wyatt debuts mask, Natalya vs. Rae, more developments|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_70618.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 4, 2014|archive-date=June 28, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130628124421/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_70618.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On the July 3 episode of ''NXT'', Amore went on to form an alliance with Colin Cassady,<ref name="WWE Realest 2"/> who had also lost to Ryan,<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=James's WWE NXT results 5/29 & 6/5: Wyatts defend Tag Titles, NXT Women's Title introduced, No. 1 contender battle royal, Parade of released NXT wrestlers in matches|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_71102.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 4, 2014|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304122213/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_71102.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> and they named themselves "the realest guys in the room".<ref name="WWE Realest 2">{{cite web|title=Colin Cassady & Enzo Amore: 'The Realest Guys in the Room' – Page 2|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2013-08-07/colin-cassady-enzo-amore-26138712/page-2|publisher=WWE|access-date=June 28, 2014|first=Byron|last=Saxton|author-link=Byron Saxton|archive-date=August 23, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130823195114/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2013-08-07/colin-cassady-enzo-amore-26138712/page-2}}</ref> Despite Amore and Cassady's alliance, Ryan easily defeated them in consecutive singles matches in July,<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=James's WWE NXT report 7/3 – WEEK 53: Bo Dallas defends NXT Title, Women's Tourney continues, Mason Ryan|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_71725.shtml|access-date=August 9, 2013|publisher=PWTorch|archive-date=July 28, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130728161603/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_71725.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> but lost to them in a handicap match.<ref name=TorchRealest>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=James's WWE NXT report 7/10: Wyatts vs. Team Regal six-man main event, NXT Women's Title tourney continues, Generico (Zayn), Mason Ryan, set-up for Charlotte's debut|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_71861.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 4, 2014|archive-date=August 9, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130809120057/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_71861.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> After the feud with Ryan, Amore and Cassady went on to feud with Alexander Rusev, Scott Dawson and their manager Sylvester Lefort, turning face in the process.<ref name="NXT11Sep2013">{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73296.shtml|title=James's WWE NXT report 9/11|author=James, Justin|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 4, 2014|archive-date=March 29, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190329222550/https://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73296.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="NXT9Oct2013">{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73844.shtml|title=James's WWE NXT report 10/9|author=James, Justin|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 4, 2014|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303201604/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73844.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> On the September 25 episode of ''NXT'', Amore and Cassady participated in a gauntlet match for a future shot at the NXT Tag Team Championship; they started the match, first defeating CJ Parker and Tyler Breeze, then defeating Rusev and Dawson but lost to The Ascension (Konnor and Viktor).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73578.shtml|title=James's WWE NXT report 9/25 – Week 65: Triple H makes "big announcement", Ohno/Hero returns, Zayn/Generico in action, Overall Reax|access-date=July 7, 2014|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304112210/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_73578.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 2013, Amore suffered a broken leg while training.<ref name=brokenleg>{{cite web|last1=Saxton|first1=Byron|author-link=Byron Saxton|title=Riding solo: Can Colin Cassady go it alone?|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2014-01-08/colin-cassady-solo-26174866|publisher=WWE|access-date=June 30, 2014|archive-date=April 23, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140423145133/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2014-01-08/colin-cassady-solo-26174866}}</ref> According to fellow wrestler Simon Gotch, who at the time was also signed to NXT, Amore was training with Kalisto and "broke his own leg trying to counter a wristlock. He blamed it on the canvas being loose."<ref>{{cite web |last= Windsor |first= William |title= Simon Gotch on Enzo Amore Being a Detriment to Wrestlers, If He Got Heat over Concussion Incident |url= http://www.wrestlinginc.com/wi/news/2017/0809/629943/simon-gotch-on-enzo-amore-being-a-detriment-to-wrestlers/ |publisher= WrestlingInc.com |access-date= March 26, 2018 |date= August 9, 2017 |archive-date= March 27, 2018 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20180327211933/http://www.wrestlinginc.com/wi/news/2017/0809/629943/simon-gotch-on-enzo-amore-being-a-detriment-to-wrestlers/ |url-status= live }}</ref>

right|upright|thumb|Amore at an NXT live show in February 2015 Amore returned on June 26, 2014 episode of ''NXT'', saving Cassady from an attack from Sylvester Lefort and Marcus Louis.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Justin|first1=James|title=James's WWE NXT report 6/26 – Week 104: RVD faces NXT champion Neville, Summer Rae, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_79275.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=July 3, 2014|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304040806/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_79275.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> In early August, Amore and Cassady participated in the NXT Tag Team Championship tournament. They defeated Jason Jordan and Tye Dillinger in the first round, but were eliminated by The Vaudevillains (Aiden English and Simon Gotch) in the second round.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Namako |first1=Jason |title=WWE NXT results – 8/21/14 (Rose/Zayn vs. Cara/Kalisto) |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50342 |publisher=WrestleView |access-date=February 8, 2015 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150208115759/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50342 |archive-date=February 8, 2015 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=James|first1=Justin|title=James's WWE NXT report 8/7 – Week 110: Rose finds his way into Zayn vs. Kidd & Gabriel issue, Overall Reax|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_80062.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=August 23, 2014|archive-date=August 10, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140810172419/http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_80062.shtml|url-status=live}}</ref> Lefort and Louis then renewed their rivalry with Amore and Cassady by attacking them and shaving Amore's beard. As a result, Amore challenged Lefort to a match with the loser's hair as forfeit at NXT TakeOver: Fatal 4-Way which Amore won, but Lefort ran away, leaving his partner Louis to lose his hair and eyebrows.<ref name=poodle>{{cite web|last1=Howell|first1=Nolan|title=Neville shocks, defies odds at NXT Takeover: Fatal 4 Way|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2014/09/11/21935396.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160425131836/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2014/09/11/21935396.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 25, 2016|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|access-date=September 13, 2014}}</ref> Amore and Cassady then formed an alliance with the debuting Carmella. The duo had accidentally cost Carmella her hairdressing job, causing her to demand to get a job as a wrestler.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Namako|first1=Jason|title=WWE NXT Results – 9/4/14 (Tag Tournament Finals)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50632-wwe-nxt-results-9-4-14-tag-tournament-finals|publisher=WrestleView|access-date=September 30, 2014|date=September 7, 2014|archive-date=April 14, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414230537/https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50632-wwe-nxt-results-9-4-14-tag-tournament-finals/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Namako|first1=Jason|title=WWE NXT Results – 9/18/14 (Hideo Itami in-ring debut)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50821-wwe-nxt-results-9-18-14-itami-in-ring-debut|publisher=WrestleView|access-date=September 30, 2014|date=September 19, 2014|archive-date=July 8, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150708190623/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/50821-wwe-nxt-results-9-18-14-itami-in-ring-debut|url-status=live}}</ref> Carmella had her televised in-ring debut on the October 16, 2014, episode of ''NXT''.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Trionfo|first1=Richard|title=WWE NXT report: one move to win a match; a Diva debuts; Zayn versus Kidd; and an update on Mojo Rawley|url=http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=88929|publisher=PWInsider|access-date=October 17, 2014|archive-date=March 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303220024/http://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=88929|url-status=live}}</ref> On the March 11, 2015, episode of ''NXT'', Amore and Cassady defeated The Lucha Dragons to become the number one contenders for the NXT Tag Team Championship. At NXT TakeOver: Unstoppable, Amore and Cassady faced Blake and Murphy for the title in a losing effort after interference from Alexa Bliss. In December, Amore and Cassady began a feud with Dash and Dawson, where they challenged them for the NXT Tag Team Championship at both NXT TakeOver: London and Roadblock unsuccessfully.

On the ''Raw'' after WrestleMania 32, Amore and Cassady debuted on the main roster and confronted The Dudley Boyz.<ref name="Raw4042016">{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=4/4 WWE Raw Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Report on post-WM32|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/04/april4rawresults/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 4, 2016|archive-date=October 6, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161006032510/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/04/04/april4rawresults/|url-status=live}}</ref> A week later on ''SmackDown'', Amore and Cassady defeated The Ascension in a tournament to determine the number one contenders for the WWE Tag Team Championship.<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE SMACKDOWN RESULTS – 4/14/16 (SAMI ZAYN VS. CHRIS JERICHO IN MAIN EVENT, NO. 1 CONTENDERS TAG TEAM TOURNAMENT CONTINUES)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/60645-wwe-smackdown-results-41416-sami-zayn-vs-chris-jericho-main-event-tag-team-tournament-continues/|website=wrestleview.com|access-date=April 16, 2016|date=April 15, 2016|archive-date=April 18, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160418085133/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-smackdown-results/60645-wwe-smackdown-results-41416-sami-zayn-vs-chris-jericho-main-event-tag-team-tournament-continues/|url-status=live}}</ref> The team went on to defeat The Dudley Boyz on the following week's ''Raw'' in the semi-final of the tag team tournament, advancing them to the finals. In the finals, they faced the Vaudevillains at Payback, with the match ending in a no contest after Amore suffered a legitimate concussion during the match.<ref name="Payback2016">{{cite web|last1=Caldwell|first1=James|title=5/1 WWE Payback Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Live Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/01/payback2016results/|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=May 1, 2016|archive-date=June 3, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160603032153/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/05/01/payback2016results/|url-status=live}}</ref> At Money in the Bank, Enzo and Cass faced The New Day, The Vaudevillains and Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, in a fatal-four-way tag team match for the WWE Tag Team Championship, in which The New Day retained their titles. On the July 4 episode of ''Raw'', Enzo and Cass helped John Cena, who was getting attacked by The Club (AJ Styles, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson) involving themselves in the feud between Cena and The Club. At Battleground, Enzo and Cass teamed with Cena to defeat The Club in a six-man tag team match.

thumb|left|Amore in May 2017 On July 19 at the 2016 WWE draft, Enzo and Cass were drafted to the Raw brand.<ref name="BG16">{{cite web |last=Caldwell |first=James |title=7/24 WWE Battleground Results – CALDWELL'S Complete Report |url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/24/jcbattlegroundppvreport/ |publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch |date=July 24, 2016 |access-date=July 24, 2016 |archive-date=July 27, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160727004908/http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/24/jcbattlegroundppvreport/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Enzo and Cass then proceeded to feud with Chris Jericho and Kevin Owens, which culminated at SummerSlam, where the two lost to Jericho and Owens. On the November 7 episode of ''Raw'', Enzo and Cass joined Team Raw for the Survivor Series Tag Team Elimination match at Survivor Series, during which Team Raw defeated Team SmackDown. On the November 21 episode of ''Raw'', after Amore was locked out of the locker room naked by Cass as a practical joke and ran into Lana in the hallway, her husband Rusev challenged Amore to a match later that night, in which Amore was quickly defeated. On the December 5 episode of ''Raw'', after Amore stood up for Lana after seeing her and Rusev argue backstage, Lana invited Amore to her hotel room. Later that night, this was revealed to be a trap when Rusev attacked Amore in the hotel room. Over the following weeks, Enzo and Cass feuded with Rusev and Jinder Mahal.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2016-12-26 |title=Enzo and Cass feud with Jinder Mahal and Rusev |last=Hanstock |first=Bill |date=December 26, 2016 |website=Uproxx.com |access-date=January 15, 2017 |archive-date=September 17, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170917171946/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2016-12-26 |url-status=live }}</ref> On January 29, 2017, Amore participated in the Royal Rumble match, entering at number 27 but was eliminated by Brock Lesnar. At WrestleMania 33, Enzo and Cass competed in a fatal-four-way ladder match for the Raw Tag Team Championship against defending champions Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, Cesaro and Sheamus, and the returning The Hardy Boyz, where The Hardy Boyz emerged victorious. The following night on ''Raw'', Amore and Cass were defeated by Cesaro and Sheamus in a tag team match to determinate the number one contenders for the Raw Tag Team Championship.

On the May 22 episode of ''Raw'', Amore was found unconscious backstage after being attacked from behind by an unknown assailant, and again the following week. Big Cass went on to accuse The Revival, who had been seen in the background in the aftermath of the attacks. On the June 5 episode of ''Raw'', Cass was found knocked out backstage in the same fashion as Amore was. Later, Cass claimed he was not cleared to wrestle, so Amore teamed with Big Show in a match against Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, which they won.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2713710-wwe-raw-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights-from-june-5|title=WWE Raw Results: Winners, Grades, Reaction and Highlights from June 5|first=Ryan|last=Dilbert|website=Bleacher Report|access-date=June 27, 2017|archive-date=July 11, 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240711165640/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2713710-wwe-raw-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights-from-june-5|url-status=live}}</ref> The following week, Cass was again found knocked out backstage. He claimed the attacker had to have had a giant fist and blamed Big Show, who denied having been the attacker. On the June 19 episode of ''Raw'', General Manager Kurt Angle attempted to expose the attacker before security footage found by Corey Graves revealed that Cass had faked his own attack in order to lure away suspicion. Cass admitted to this, expressing his frustration during his time teaming with Amore. Cass then attacked Amore, thus disbanding the team.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2017/6/20/15835984/wwe-raw-results-recap-reactions-june-19-2017-cry-enzo-cry|title=Raw recap & reactions: Cry Enzo Cry|first=Geno|last=Mrosko|date=June 20, 2017|website=Cageside Seats|access-date=June 27, 2017|archive-date=August 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170801201619/https://www.cagesideseats.com/wwe/2017/6/20/15835984/wwe-raw-results-recap-reactions-june-19-2017-cry-enzo-cry|url-status=live}}</ref> On the June 26 episode of ''Raw'', Amore called out Cass to the ring and the two seemingly reconciled; however, Cass again viciously attacked Amore on the stage.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2718100-wwe-raw-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights-from-june-26|title=WWE Raw Results: Winners, Grades, Reaction and Highlights from June 26|first=Ryan|last=Dilbert|website=Bleacher Report|access-date=June 27, 2017|archive-date=June 28, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170628082029/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2718100-wwe-raw-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights-from-june-26|url-status=live}}</ref> At the Great Balls of Fire pay-per-view, Amore was defeated by Cass. At SummerSlam, Cass defeated Big Show while Amore was suspended above the ring inside a shark cage. During the match, Amore escaped from the shark cage, but was quickly attacked by Cass. The next night, on the August 21 episode of ''Raw'', Amore challenged Cass to a Street Fight, which he won after the referee stopped the match after Cass suffered a legitimate knee injury.

==== Cruiserweight Champion (2017–2018) ==== On the August 22 episode of ''205 Live'', Amore debuted in the cruiserweight division and began a feud with Cruiserweight Champion Neville. On the September 5 episode of ''205 Live'', Amore earned a title opportunity against Neville, winning a Fatal five-way elimination match also involving Cedric Alexander, The Brian Kendrick, Gran Metalik and Tony Nese. At No Mercy on September 24, Amore defeated Neville with a low blow to win the Cruiserweight Championship. This decision was made because of ''205 Live''{{'}}s lack of success; Vince McMahon thought a "strong" character as Amore would improve the brand, making him the core of the show.<ref>{{cite web|last=Johnson|first=Mike|url=https://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=115372|title=Major changes behind the scenes of 205 Live|date=February 7, 2018|access-date=May 16, 2018|website=PWInsider|archive-date=February 8, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180208064122/https://www.pwinsider.com/ViewArticle.php?id=115372|url-status=live}}</ref> The following night on ''Raw'', Amore closed the show with a "championship celebration", where he insulted the cruiserweight division and stated that he made ''205 Live'' "relevant" and that the ''205 Live'' roster was "jealous" of his accomplishments, turning heel for the first time since 2013. He also showed a signed clause by General Manager Kurt Angle that if any cruiserweight touched him, they would lose their title opportunities.<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE RAW Results – 9/25/17 (No Mercy fallout, Reigns on Miz TV)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/91331-wwe-raw-results-september-25-2017/|website=WrestleView|access-date=September 30, 2017|date=September 25, 2017|archive-date=October 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171001111126/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/91331-wwe-raw-results-september-25-2017/|url-status=live}}</ref> The week after on ''Raw'', Amore revealed another paper clause stating that any cruiserweight that tried to touch him would be fired. Subsequently, Kalisto was introduced as the newest member of the cruiserweight division and attacked Amore. On the October 9 episode of ''Raw'', Amore lost the Cruiserweight Championship to Kalisto in a lumberjack match.<ref>{{cite web|last=Keller|first=Wade|title=KELLER'S WWE RAW REPORT 10/9: Shield reunion continues, Miz TV with Sheamus & Cesaro, TLC build up continues|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/10/09/kellers-wwe-raw-report-109-shield-reunion-continues-miz-tv-sheamus-cesaro-tlc-build-continues/|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=October 9, 2017|archive-date=October 10, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171010155546/https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/10/09/kellers-wwe-raw-report-109-shield-reunion-continues-miz-tv-sheamus-cesaro-tlc-build-continues/|url-status=live}}</ref> However, he regained the title in the rematch at TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs on October 22, via an illegal thumb shot to the eye behind the referee's back.<ref>{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=10/22 Powell's WWE TLC Kickoff Show coverage: Sasha Banks vs. Alicia Fox, Drew Gulak presentation|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/10/22/1022-powells-wwe-tlc-kickoff-show-coverage-sasha-banks-vs-alicia-fox-drew-gulak-presentation/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=October 22, 2017|date=October 22, 2017|archive-date=March 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306044045/https://prowrestling.net/site/2017/10/22/1022-powells-wwe-tlc-kickoff-show-coverage-sasha-banks-vs-alicia-fox-drew-gulak-presentation/|url-status=live}}</ref> At the Survivor Series pre-show on November 19, Amore successfully defended the title against Kalisto. This was his last WWE pay-per-view appearance. In early January 2018, Amore was unable to compete due to suffering from influenza.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/enzo-amore-hospitalized-flu|title=Hospitalized Enzo Amore chronicles his unique New Year's Day|work=WWE|access-date=January 3, 2018|archive-date=January 2, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180102221231/http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/article/enzo-amore-hospitalized-flu|url-status=live}}</ref>

Amore was suspended from WWE on January 22, 2018, due to his sexual assault allegations (see below).<ref name="WWE suspension"/> As a result, his scheduled title defense against Cedric Alexander at the Royal Rumble was canceled.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/01/22/wwe-pulls-cruiserweight-title-match-royal-rumble-lineup/|title=WWE pulls the Cruiserweight Title match from the Royal Rumble lineup|date=January 22, 2018|access-date=May 16, 2018|website=ProWrestling.net|publisher=Last Row Media LLC|archive-date=May 17, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180517082226/https://prowrestling.net/site/2018/01/22/wwe-pulls-cruiserweight-title-match-royal-rumble-lineup/|url-status=live}}</ref> The next day, Amore was fired from WWE and the title was vacated.<ref>{{cite news |title=WWE fires Enzo Amore fired after police open sexual assault investigation |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2018/01/23/wwe-fires-enzo-amore-fired-after-police-open-sexual-assault-investigation/1060184001/ |access-date=February 15, 2021 |work=USA Today |date=January 23, 2018 |archive-date=July 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240711165725/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2018/01/23/wwe-fires-enzo-amore-fired-after-police-open-sexual-assault-investigation/1060184001/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.denverpost.com/2018/01/23/wwe-fire-enzo-amore/|title=WWE cruiserweight champion Enzo Amore fired after rape allegation|agency=The Associated Press|date=January 23, 2018|access-date=February 15, 2021|archive-date=December 5, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211205110905/https://www.denverpost.com/2018/01/23/wwe-fire-enzo-amore/|url-status=live}}</ref> After his release, Amore retired from professional wrestling to focus on his music career.<ref>{{cite news |title=Enzo Amore asegura que no va a volver a subirse a un ring |url=https://solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com/new/73258-enzo-amore-asegura-que-no-va-a-volver-a-subirse-a-un-ring |access-date=February 15, 2021 |work=Solowrestling |date=August 13, 2018 |language=es |archive-date=April 14, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210414200950/https://solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com/new/73258-enzo-amore-asegura-que-no-va-a-volver-a-subirse-a-un-ring |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Johnson |first1=Mike |last2=Jordan |first2=Paul |title=FORMER WWE STAR SAYS HE WILL NEVER WRESTLE AGAIN |url=https://www.pwinsider.com/article/119582/former-wwe-star-says-he-will-never-wrestle-again.html |access-date=February 15, 2021 |work=PWInsider |date=August 13, 2018 |archive-date=April 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220407011956/https://www.pwinsider.com/article/119582/former-wwe-star-says-he-will-never-wrestle-again.html |url-status=live }}</ref>

On November 18, 2018, Arndt attended the Survivor Series event. He stood on his seat, causing a disruption, and was eventually removed from the venue by security as well as banned from future events at the Staples Center.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/11/enzo-amore-wwe-survivor-series-ejection|title=Former WWE star Enzo Amore kicked out of Staples Center during Survivor Series|access-date=February 15, 2021|work=USA Today|date=November 19, 2018|archive-date=March 3, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303024247/https://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/11/enzo-amore-wwe-survivor-series-ejection|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://wrestlingnews.co/wwe-news/staples-center-bans-enzo-amore-from-attending-future-events/|title=Staples Center bans Enzo Amore from attending future events|last=Davis|first=Paul|work=Wrestling News|date=November 19, 2018|access-date=February 15, 2021|archive-date=August 30, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210830210722/https://wrestlingnews.co/wwe-news/staples-center-bans-enzo-amore-from-attending-future-events/|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Ring of Honor (2019)=== Arndt, alongside former tag team partner William Morrissey, appeared at the G1 Supercard at Madison Square Garden. Following a tag team match involving Ring of Honor and New Japan Pro-Wrestling talent, the two jumped the barricade and attacked several wrestlers.<ref name="ROH">{{cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/ring-honor/enzo-and-big-cass-make-appearance-roh-njpw-g1-supercard-281051|title=Enzo and Big Cass make appearance at ROH-NJPW G1 Supercard|date=April 6, 2019|website=WON/F4W|access-date=April 8, 2019|archive-date=April 8, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190408214616/https://www.f4wonline.com/ring-honor/enzo-and-big-cass-make-appearance-roh-njpw-g1-supercard-281051|url-status=live}}</ref> The broadcast cameras cut away from the incident to indicate a legit outside attack, but it was later reported the angle was a worked shoot.<ref name="ROH"/> However, following the angle, the duo were not booked for any following shows and the incident was never mentioned again.<ref>{{Cite web | url=https://www.sescoops.com/enzo-and-big-cass-apparently-have-no-future-roh-appearences-scheduled/amp/ | title=Enzo and Big Cass Apparently Have No Future ROH {{as written|Appea|rences [sic]}} Scheduled| date=April 20, 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827041220/https://www.sescoops.com/enzo-and-big-cass-apparently-have-no-future-roh-appearences-scheduled/amp/ |archive-date=August 27, 2019}}</ref>

===Independent circuit (2018–present)=== On June 15, Arndt, under the ring name nZo, debuted for Northeast Wrestling (NEW), accompanying Morrissey, now known as CaZXL, in his match against Jon Moxley. During the match, nZo attempted to interfere, but was attacked by Moxley as a result. Caz would go on to lose the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/jon-moxley-battles-big-cass-and-enzo-new-six-flags-slam-fest|title=Jon Moxley Battles Big Cass And Enzo At NEW Six Flags Slam Fest|work=Fightful|first=Jeremy|last=Lambert|date=June 16, 2019|access-date=June 17, 2019|archive-date=June 17, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190617054204/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/jon-moxley-battles-big-cass-and-enzo-new-six-flags-slam-fest|url-status=live}}</ref> At NEW's "Prison Break" on August 16, nZo wrestled his first match since January 2018, defeating Brian Pillman Jr.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/new-prison-break-live-results-and-discussion-816|title=NEW Prison Break Results (8/16): Moxley vs. Pentagon Jr, Matt Taven Surprise, Enzo & Cass, More|work=Fightful|first=Jeremy|last=Lambert|date=August 16, 2019|access-date=August 16, 2019|archive-date=August 17, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190817105737/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/new-prison-break-live-results-and-discussion-816|url-status=live}}</ref>

Real1 participated in Chris Jericho's Rock 'N' Wrestling Rager at Sea cruise championship tournament from January 31 to February 4, 2025, performing a notable entrance and reuniting onstage with his former WWE tag team partner Big Cass for fan engagement activities.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Boone |first=Matt |date=October 3, 2024 |title=Enzo Amore, Elias & More Announced For 2025 Chris Jericho Cruise Oceanic Championship Tournament |url=https://wrestlingheadlines.com/enzo-amore-elias-more-announced-for-2025-chris-jericho-cruise-oceanic-championship-tournament/ |access-date=February 17, 2026 |website=Wrestling Headlines |language=en-US}}</ref>

===New Japan Pro Wrestling (2023)=== Amore was set to make his NJPW debut in a six-man tag team match in 2019, but the match never materialized.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Enzo Amore (Real1) To Team With Starboy Charlie And Jack Cartwheel At All Star Junior Festival {{!}} Fightful News |url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/enzo-amore-real1-team-starboy-charlie-and-jack-cartwheel-all-star-junior-festival |access-date=June 19, 2024 |website=www.fightful.com |date=August 13, 2023 |language=en |archive-date=May 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519114534/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/enzo-amore-real1-team-starboy-charlie-and-jack-cartwheel-all-star-junior-festival |url-status=live }}</ref> Four years later, Amore made his debut on August 19, 2023, in a six-man tag team match, teaming up with Jack Cartwheel and Starboy Charlie in a losing effort against Rich Swann, Ryusuke Taguchi, and The DKC.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Thompson |first=Andrew |date=August 15, 2023 |title=Real1/Enzo Amore grateful to be making NJPW debut, guarantees he'll end up at Tokyo Dome if he gets chance to 'do what I do' |url=https://www.postwrestling.com/2023/08/15/real1-enzo-amore-grateful-to-be-making-njpw-debut-guarantees-hell-end-up-at-tokyo-dome-if-he-gets-chance-to-do-what-i-do/ |access-date=June 19, 2024 |website=POST Wrestling |language=en-US |archive-date=July 11, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240711165739/https://www.postwrestling.com/2023/08/15/real1-enzo-amore-grateful-to-be-making-njpw-debut-guarantees-hell-end-up-at-tokyo-dome-if-he-gets-chance-to-do-what-i-do/ |url-status=live }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=365373 |title=NJPW All Star Junior Festival 2023 USA « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - the Internet Wrestling Database |access-date=May 19, 2024 |archive-date=May 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240519115630/https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=365373 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Major League Wrestling (2021–2023)=== On November 6, 2021, at War Chamber, nZo made his MLW debut, defeating Matt Cross. He subsequently changed his ring name to Real1 and worked as a heel in feuds against the likes of Jacob Fatu, KC Navarro and Mance Warner.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Nason |first=Josh |date=April 1, 2023 |title=Real1/Enzo Amore released by MLW: He was scheduled to challenge MLW Champion Alex Hammerstone on Saturday. |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/other-wrestling/real1-enzo-amore-released-by-mlw |access-date=April 1, 2023 |website=Wrestling Observer Figure Four Online}}</ref> On April 1, 2023, it was reported that MLW would no longer be working with Arndt, who had been working on a per-appearance agreement. ''Fightful'' reported that Arndt was refusing most angles pitched to him, including a scheduled match against Alexander Hammerstone for the MLW World Heavyweight Championship at Battle Riot V on April 8, 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Harris |first=Jeffrey |date=April 1, 2023 |title=UPDATED: Real1 Reportedly Released From MLW, Title Match for Battle Riot V Off |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/real1-reportedly-released-from-mlw-title-match-for-battle-riot-v-off/ |access-date=April 1, 2023 |website=411mania.com |archive-date=April 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401211501/https://411mania.com/wrestling/real1-reportedly-released-from-mlw-title-match-for-battle-riot-v-off/ |url-status=live }}</ref> Arndt claimed the match against Hammerstone was advertised without him agreeing to the match. He also claimed he turned down a program with Richard Holliday after the company wanted him to "bury a guy who just beat cancer". nZo had been written off TV at Blood and Thunder after losing to Microman in a quick squash.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Rueter |first1=Sean |title=Real1 (Enzo Amore) is done at MLW, and accusations are flying about why |url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/2023/4/2/23666966/real1-enzo-amore-nzo-released-mlw-difficult-work-with-no-contract-title-match-bury-cancer-survivor |access-date=September 15, 2023 |work=Cageside Seats |date=April 2, 2023 |language=en |archive-date=October 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231009051056/https://www.cagesideseats.com/2023/4/2/23666966/real1-enzo-amore-nzo-released-mlw-difficult-work-with-no-contract-title-match-bury-cancer-survivor |url-status=live }}</ref>

=== Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (2025) === On July 20, 2025 at the pre-show edition of Slammiversary, Real1 made his Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) debut, teaming with Zilla Fatu and Josh Bishop to defeat Steve Maclin, Jake Something, and Mance Warner.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Powell |first=Jason |date=July 20, 2025 |title=TNA Slammiversary results: Powell's live review of Trick Williams vs. Joe Hendry vs. Mike Santana for the TNA World Championship, the return of AJ Styles, Masha Slamovich vs. Jacy Jayne in a title vs. title match |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2025/07/20/tna-slammiversary-results-powells-live-review-of-trick-williams-vs-joe-hendry-vs-mike-santana-for-the-tna-world-championship-the-return-of-aj-styles-masha-slamovich-vs-jacy-jayne-in-a-tit/ |website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net |access-date=July 21, 2025}}</ref>

== Music career == Under the stage name '''Real1''', Arndt began pursuing a career as a rapper in May 2018, releasing his first song titled "Phoenix" through WorldStarHipHop on May 28, 2018.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVruAfu53z4|title=Real1 (Enzo Amore) "Phoenix" (WSHH Exclusive – Official Music Video)|last=WORLDSTARHIPHOP|date=May 28, 2018|access-date=May 28, 2018|via=YouTube|archive-date=May 28, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180528233157/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oVruAfu53z4|url-status=live}}</ref> He released a second song titled "Bury Me a G" on June 7.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WW2wyzISubw|title=Real1 (Enzo Amore) "Bury Me A G" (WSHH Exclusive – Official Music Video)|last=WOLDSTARHIPHOP|date=June 7, 2018|access-date=June 16, 2018|via=YouTube|archive-date=June 10, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180610221510/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WW2wyzISubw|url-status=live}}</ref> On November 18, using the name '''nZo''', Arndt released an album titled ''Rosemary's Baby Pt. 1: Happy Birthday''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/album-review-enzo-amore-s-rosemary-s-baby-pt-1-happy-birthday|title=Album Review - Enzo Amore's "Rosemary's Baby Pt. 1: Happy Birthday" - Fightful Wrestling|website=www.fightful.com |date=November 22, 2018 }}</ref> Arndt's second album, ''Born in N.J.'' was released on August 15, 2019.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.si.com/wrestling/2019/08/14/wwe-wrestling-news-eric-arndt-nzo-enzo-amore-return|title=The Week in Wrestling: Eric 'nZo' Arndt Ready to Show What He Can Do in the Ring|first=Justin|last=Barrasso|date=August 14, 2019|access-date=May 4, 2020|newspaper=Sports Illustrated|archive-date=September 27, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200927020212/https://www.si.com/wrestling/2019/08/14/wwe-wrestling-news-eric-arndt-nzo-enzo-amore-return|url-status=live}}</ref> On March 31, 2020, Arndt released ''Certified G Series: Zo's Exotic Quarantine Music'', the first mixtape under the Real1 Entertainment label.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/real1/status/1245095727056990208|title="Real1 Ent. Presents {{sic|it|’s|nolink=y}} first mixtape: "Certified G Series: Zo's Exotic Quarantine Music." Dropping this week! In the mean time show some #Amore & get over to @PWTees & get the realest cat in the Zoo"|date=March 31, 2020|access-date=May 4, 2020|via=Twitter|archive-date=March 31, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200331215114/https://twitter.com/real1/status/1245095727056990208|url-status=live}}</ref>

== Other media == Arndt is a playable character in ''WWE 2K16'', ''WWE 2K17'', and ''WWE 2K18'' as Enzo Amore.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k16/wwe-2k16-roster-playable-characters-superstars-divas|title=Superstars and Divas featured on WWE 2K16 roster list|publisher=WWE|access-date=August 23, 2017|archive-date=March 21, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190321095326/https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k16/wwe-2k16-roster-playable-characters-superstars-divas|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/wwe-2k17-roster-confirmed-wrestlers|title=WWE 2K17 roster: All confirmed wrestlers and characters|publisher=Sportskeeda|access-date=August 23, 2017|date=September 16, 2016|archive-date=August 23, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170823203903/https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/wwe-2k17-roster-confirmed-wrestlers|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k18/article/wwe-2k18-roster-playable-character-list |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230126012155/https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k18/article/wwe-2k18-roster-playable-character-list |archive-date=January 26, 2023 |title=WWE 2K18 roster: Meet the Superstars joining the list of playable characters |work=World Wrestling Entertainment |last=Artus |first=Matthew |date=January 16, 2018 |access-date=February 17, 2023}}</ref> In 2019 Arndt appeared in the music video for the song "Everything's Wrong" by the metalcore band All That Remains.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Staff |first=Revolver |title=Watch All That Remains' Emotional First Music Video With New Guitarist |url=https://www.revolvermag.com/music/watch-all-remains-emotional-first-music-video-new-guitarist/ |access-date=February 17, 2026 |website=Revolver |language=en-US}}</ref> Arndt made his acting debut in the 2024 crime thriller ''Jersey Bred'' where he played Dirty Jerzee.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 4, 2024 |title=Exclusive Jersey Bred Trailer Previews Crime Thriller Led by Sopranos Star |url=https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/exclusive-jersey-bred-trailer-previews-150000022.html |access-date=February 17, 2026 |website=Yahoo Entertainment |language=en-US}}</ref>

==Personal life== Before his employment with WWE, Arndt met William Morrissey, while playing basketball together at the Cage of Manhattan, New York, nearly ten years before reuniting on NXT in July 2013.<ref name="WWE Realest 1">{{cite web|title=Colin Cassady & Enzo Amore: 'The Realest Guys in the Room' – Page 1|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2013-08-07/colin-cassady-enzo-amore-26138712|publisher=WWE|access-date=June 28, 2014|first=Byron|last=Saxton|author-link=Byron Saxton|archive-date=August 20, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130820061914/http://www.wwe.com/shows/wwenxt/2013-08-07/colin-cassady-enzo-amore-26138712}}</ref> Arndt's friendship with Morrissey became rocky in August 2017 after Arndt publicly criticized Morrissey for not finishing their August 21 match after injuring his knee.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-comes-to-terms-on-release-of-big-cass-shortly-after-returning-from-injury/|title=WWE comes to terms on release of Big Cass shortly after returning from injury|website=CBSSports.com|date=June 19, 2018|access-date=July 3, 2018|archive-date=July 3, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180703220435/https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-comes-to-terms-on-release-of-big-cass-shortly-after-returning-from-injury/|url-status=live}}</ref> The two have since reconciled.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHt_NHy6ktI|title=The Enzo Amore Interview|date=May 30, 2019 |via=www.youtube.com|access-date=June 3, 2019|archive-date=November 16, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191116100444/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yHt_NHy6ktI&gl=US&hl=en|url-status=live}}</ref>

Arndt was in a relationship with fellow professional wrestler and New Jersey native Gionna Daddio, who currently performs in WWE as Liv Morgan.<ref>{{cite web|last=Arry|first=Kartik|url=https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/news-enzo-amore-speaks-honestly-ex-girlfriend-liv-morgan-wwe|title=Enzo Amore speaks honestly about his ex-girlfriend Liv Morgan in WWE|date=September 20, 2022|access-date=October 6, 2023|website=Sportskeeda|archive-date=October 9, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231009051055/https://www.sportskeeda.com/wwe/news-enzo-amore-speaks-honestly-ex-girlfriend-liv-morgan-wwe|url-status=live}}</ref> Their relationship ended when Daddio accused Arndt of cheating on her.<ref>{{cite web|last=Thapliyal|first=Shivangi|url=https://sportsmanor.com/the-real-reason-why-liv-morgan-broke-up-with-former-wwe-star-enzo-amore/|title=The Real Reason Why Liv Morgan Broke Up With Former WWE Star Enzo Amore|date=September 30, 2023|access-date=October 6, 2023|website=Sportsmanor|archive-date=October 9, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231009051057/https://sportsmanor.com/the-real-reason-why-liv-morgan-broke-up-with-former-wwe-star-enzo-amore/|url-status=live}}</ref>

=== Sexual assault allegation === On January 22, 2018, the Phoenix Police Department confirmed that Arndt was under investigation for an alleged sexual assault that was reported to authorities in October 2017.<ref>{{cite web|last=Satin|first=Ryan|author-link=Ryan Satin|url=http://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/enzo-amore-rape-allegations/|title=Enzo Amore Suspended Over Sexual Assault Allegations, Incident Under Investigation By Police|date=January 22, 2018|access-date=May 16, 2018|website=Pro Wrestling Sheet}}</ref><ref name="USAT firing">{{cite news|title=WWE fires Enzo Amore fired after police open sexual assault investigation|url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2018/01/23/wwe-fires-enzo-amore-fired-after-police-open-sexual-assault-investigation/1060184001/|access-date=May 16, 2018|work=USA Today|date=January 23, 2018}}</ref> Later that day, Arndt was suspended by WWE due to violating their zero tolerance policy for matters involving sexual harassment and sexual assault. WWE released a statement indicating that he would remain suspended until the matter was resolved.<ref name="WWE suspension">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/article/enzo-amore-suspended?sf179957021=1|title=Enzo Amore suspended|publisher=WWE|date=January 22, 2018|access-date=January 22, 2018|archive-date=January 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180123052805/http://www.wwe.com/article/enzo-amore-suspended?sf179957021=1|url-status=live}}</ref> In an interview on January 23, Philomena Sheahan accused him of raping her in a Phoenix, Arizona, hotel room on October 19, 2017.<ref>{{cite news|title=Enzo Amore Accuser Speaks Out, 'I Said 'No' Countless Times'|url=http://www.tmz.com/2018/01/23/enzo-amore-accuser-philomena-sheahan-rape-wwe/|access-date=January 25, 2018|work=TMZ|date=January 23, 2018|archive-date=January 25, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180125163304/http://www.tmz.com/2018/01/23/enzo-amore-accuser-philomena-sheahan-rape-wwe/|url-status=live}}</ref> Arndt was fired from WWE the same day, due to his failure to inform WWE of the investigation. Arndt responded, via his lawyer, that he was not even aware of the investigation until it was made public.<ref name="drop"/><ref name="WWE firing">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/article/enzo-amore-released|title=Enzo Amore released|publisher=WWE|date=January 23, 2018|access-date=January 23, 2018|archive-date=February 26, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180226100559/http://www.wwe.com/article/enzo-amore-released|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Satin|first=Ryan|author-link=Ryan Satin|url=http://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/enzo-release-reasoning-update/|title=Update on Reasoning Behind Enzo Amore's Release From WWE|date=January 23, 2018|work=Pro Wrestling Sheet|access-date=January 24, 2018|archive-date=January 23, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180123233947/http://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/enzo-release-reasoning-update/|url-status=live}}</ref> On Twitter, Arndt "fully and unequivocally" denied the allegations against him.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Schwartz|first1=Nick|title=Enzo Amore releases first statement after being released by WWE|url=http://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/01/enzo-amore-releases-first-statement-after-being-released-by-wwe|access-date=January 25, 2018|work=USA Today|date=January 24, 2018|archive-date=January 24, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180124232321/http://ftw.usatoday.com/2018/01/enzo-amore-releases-first-statement-after-being-released-by-wwe|url-status=live}}</ref> Soon afterward, a friend of Sheahan came forward publicly to admit that allegations had been falsified, presenting a text conversation as evidence.<ref>{{cite news |last=Csonka |first=Larry |title=411MANIA &#124; Wrestling News, WWE & AEW Results |date=January 24, 2018 |url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/friend-enzo-amores-accuser-claims-lying-raped |work=411mania |access-date=February 6, 2025}}</ref> On May 16, 2018, the Phoenix Police Department ceased their investigation due to insufficient evidence.<ref name="drop">{{cite web|last=Satin|first=Ryan|author-link=Ryan Satin|url=http://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/enzo-amore-investigation-dropped/|title=Enzo Amore Sexual Assault Investigation Dropped Due To Insufficient Evidence|date=May 16, 2018|access-date=May 16, 2018|website=Pro Wrestling Sheet}}</ref>

== Championships and accomplishments == *'''4th Rope Wrestling''' **4th Rope Flyweight Championship (1 time, inaugural, current)<ref>{{cite web |title=4th Rope Flyweight Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=7390 |website=www.cagematch.net}}</ref> *'''Awesome Championship Wrestling''' **ACW National Championship (1 time)<ref>{{cite web |title=ACW Aftershock: Battle For The Belts « Events Database « CAGEMATCH - The Internet Wrestling Database |url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=425734 |website=www.cagematch.net}}</ref> *'''''Pro Wrestling Illustrated''''' ** Ranked No. 110 of the top 500 singles wrestlers in the ''PWI 500'' in 2017<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2017.html|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2017|access-date=August 31, 2017|work=The Internet Wrestling Database|archive-date=October 20, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181020132616/http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2017.html|url-status=live}}</ref> * '''''Rolling Stone''''' ** Ranked No. 10 of the 10 best WWE wrestlers of 2016 {{small|with Big Cass}}<ref>{{cite magazine|last=Herzog|first=Ken|title=10 Best WWE Wrestlers of 2016|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-lists/10-best-wwe-wrestlers-of-2016-119760/enzo-and-cass-121969/|magazine=Rolling Stone|date=December 21, 2016|access-date=September 30, 2020|archive-date=January 13, 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220113111232/https://www.rollingstone.com/culture/culture-lists/10-best-wwe-wrestlers-of-2016-119760/enzo-and-cass-121969/|url-status=live}}</ref> *'''WWE''' **WWE Cruiserweight Championship (2 times)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/wwe-cruiserweight-championship|title=WWE Cruiserweight Championship|publisher=WWE|access-date=September 24, 2017|archive-date=July 29, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170729012037/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/wwe-cruiserweight-championship|url-status=live}}</ref> ** NXT Year-End Award for Tag Team of the Year (2015) – {{small|with Colin Cassady}}<ref name=NXTawards>{{cite web|last1=Zimmerman|first1=Zack|title=1/13 Zim's WWE NXT Live Coverage: Battle Royal to determine Bayley's next challenger for the NXT Women's Championship, Dash and Dawson vs. The Ascension, plus Elias Sampson and Tommaso Ciampa in action|url=http://prowrestling.net/site/2016/01/13/113-zims-wwe-nxt-live-coverage-battle-royal-to-determine-bayleys-next-challenger-for-the-nxt-womens-championship-dash-and-dawson-vs-the-ascension-plus-elias-sampson-and-tommaso-ciampa-in-ac/|website=prowrestling.net|access-date=January 13, 2016|archive-date=April 24, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160424100306/http://prowrestling.net/site/2016/01/13/113-zims-wwe-nxt-live-coverage-battle-royal-to-determine-bayleys-next-challenger-for-the-nxt-womens-championship-dash-and-dawson-vs-the-ascension-plus-elias-sampson-and-tommaso-ciampa-in-ac/|url-status=live}}</ref>

== ''Luchas de Apuestas'' record == {{See also|Lucha_libre#Luchas_de_Apuestas|l1=Luchas de Apuestas}} {|class="wikitable sortable" width=100% style="text-align: center" !width=20% scope="col"|Winner (wager) !width=20% scope="col"|Loser (wager) !width=20% scope="col"|Location !width=20% scope="col"|Event !width=15% scope="col"|Date !class="unsortable" width=5% scope="col"|Notes |- |Enzo Amore (hair) || Sylvester Lefort (hair) || Orlando, Florida || NXT TakeOver: Fatal 4-Way || {{dts|2014|9|11}} ||<ref name=poodle/><ref group=Note>Lefort's tag team partner Marcus Louis lost his hair after Lefort ran away.</ref> |} {{reflist|group=Note}}

== References == {{Reflist}}

== External links == {{Commons category}} * {{Twitter|name=Real1}} * {{Professional wrestling profiles|wrestlingdata=26098|iwd=enzo-amore-9427}} {{WWE Cruiserweight Championship}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Amore, Enzo}} Category:1986 births Category:American male professional wrestlers Category:Living people Category:People from Waldwick, New Jersey Category:Professional wrestlers from New Jersey Category:Salisbury Sea Gulls football players Category:Salisbury University alumni Category:Sportspeople from Hackensack, New Jersey Category:NXT/WWE Cruiserweight Champions Category:21st-century male professional wrestlers Category:21st-century American professional wrestlers Category:WWE personnel