Chicago-based professional wrestler Colt Cabana is the consummate self-promoter. He has to be. WWE cut him loose in 2009 after just two years and a handful of main roster appearances. Since his release, Cabana has emerged as perhaps the top name in independent wrestling. His in-ring skills allow him to be a popular main eventer outside the WWE’s sphere of influence, netting two runs with the historic NWA world championship and a shot at Jay Lethal’s Ring of Honor title at the promotion’s May 8 Global Wars pay-per-view.

Cabana’s do-it-yourself approach to keeping his name relevant extends beyond the wrestling ring. Most notably, his Art of Wrestling podcast debuted in 2010 and was 226 episodes in when that CM Punk interview put the show on the sports entertainment map.

He’s also a comedian, wrestling at different points in his career as Twinkie the Kid and Officer Jack Offerson. In-ring laughs have translated to hilarious appearances at comedy clubs and a web series, often alongside Wrestling with Depression podcaster Marty DeRosa.

Amid a busy tour schedule, Cabana found a few minutes to chat about his wrestling style, his short WWE run, podcasting and a fellow comedic genius from wrestling’s past.

Your in-ring style incorporates the British catch-as-catch-can style. Fans don’t see that every night, even at independent shows. Is your approach to wrestling a reflection of your training, or have you added things over time to set yourself apart?

The only way people will remember anything or anybody is if it stands out and is different. That's my approach to wrestling and performance. I loved the old British way of wrestling, and it's a style that many don't use. I spent a lot of time in England and a lot of time studying and practicing that style. It was and is a fun layer to add to my style of wrestling.

Another thing that makes you stand out is you’re a funny guy. Were you the class clown growing up, or did you discover or sharpen your comedy skills once you became a wrestler?

I've always been a bit of a jokester. I had a real jovial group of friends in high school who helped mold the sense of humor I have today. I incorporated it into my wrestling style for the same reason as above. I wanted to stand out, and humor was a thing that just wasn't on a lot of wrestling cards when I started out...or at least good humor.

You were in WWE developmental and appeared on Smackdown a few times between 2007-09. What’s something you learned being in the WWE system that you’ve used since, either in the ring or while promoting yourself?

I took a lot away from my time in WWE. Some what to do and some what not to do. The biggest lesson I learned was that when having a boss, they can fire you whenever you want. So don't depend on anyone but yourself and have your best interest in mind.

Since leaving WWE, you’ve become a DIY success story in many ways. A big part of that has been your podcast. Who or what inspired you to enter the podcasting word?

I was listening to a lot of podcasts in 2008-09. I traveled a lot, and I've always been into talk radio way more than music. The podcasting medium was perfect for me as a fan. So it was easy for me to transition this into my own podcast and show. I was definitely inspired by people like Marc Maron, Jesse Thorn, Doug Benson, and Chris Hardwick.

Speaking of funny guys, you’ve been managed in at least one tag team match by Bobby Heenan. Did you pick his brain about wrestling and comedy?

In my head, he took me under his wing, showed me the ropes and we became best friends. The reality is, he came, made some weird remarks, collected his money and went on to the next gig. That's more than okay though. I've done shows like that, too.

What’s in the immediate future for Colt Cabana, aside from a shot at Jay Lethal’s ROH title?

I'm touring non-stop and always working on different projects. This summer alone I'm hosting the Podcast Movement Podcast Awards, performing at the Gathering of the Juggalos, bringing my comedy show to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, doing live podcasts and of course wrestling in every little small town you've never heard of.