It’s the story no one saw coming: how a quick-witted jab from Greg Gutfeld turned Tyrus, the larger-than-life wrestling icon, into one of the most beloved—and unexpected—personalities on Fox News. What began as a playful “troll” turned into a career-defining moment, propelling Tyrus from the wrestling ring to the television studio, where his charisma, humor, and unfiltered takes have made him a fan favorite. This is the hilarious, heartfelt tale of how Tyrus went from body slams to prime-time stardom, with Gutfeld’s mischievous spark lighting the fuse.

The Origins: Tyrus, the Wrestling Titan

Before he was a Fox News fixture, Tyrus—born George Murdoch—was a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional wrestling. Standing at 6’7” and weighing over 350 pounds, Tyrus was a physical specimen, dominating opponents in promotions like World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and Total Nonstop Action (TNA). Known as “Brodus Clay” in WWE, he debuted in 2011 as a powerhouse enforcer before transitioning into a fan-favorite “Funkasaurus,” complete with dance moves and a larger-than-life persona. His charisma was undeniable, but wrestling was a grueling world, and Tyrus knew his career wouldn’t last forever.

After leaving WWE in 2014, Tyrus continued wrestling on the independent circuit and in TNA, but he was searching for a new path. He had always been quick-witted, with a knack for storytelling honed from years of cutting promos in the ring. Little did he know that his next big break would come not from a wrestling ring but from a chance encounter with Fox News’ resident provocateur, Greg Gutfeld.

The Spark: Gutfeld’s Playful ‘Troll’

Greg Gutfeld, the sharp-tongued host of Gutfeld! and co-host of The Five, is known for his irreverent humor and ability to spot talent where others might not. In 2014, Tyrus was invited to appear on The Greg Gutfeld Show (then called Red Eye), a late-night Fox News program that blended comedy, commentary, and offbeat discussions. Tyrus was brought on as a guest, likely due to his wrestling fame and larger-than-life presence. But what happened next was pure Gutfeld magic.

During the segment, Gutfeld, in his signature snarky style, made a playful jab at Tyrus, poking fun at his size and wrestling persona. The exact words are lost to time, but those who watched recall Tyrus firing back with a response so quick, so sharp, and so genuinely funny that it left Gutfeld momentarily speechless—a rare feat. The studio erupted in laughter, and Gutfeld, ever the opportunist, saw something special in Tyrus. “That was the moment,” Gutfeld later recounted on his show. “I knew this guy wasn’t just a wrestler. He was a star.”

That single exchange was the spark. Gutfeld’s “troll” wasn’t meant to demean but to test Tyrus’s ability to roll with the punches and dish it back. Tyrus passed with flying colors, and what began as a one-off appearance turned into regular guest spots on Red Eye. The chemistry between Gutfeld’s biting wit and Tyrus’s laid-back, no-nonsense humor was electric, and viewers couldn’t get enough.

From Guest to Fixture: Tyrus’s Rise on Fox News

Tyrus’s transition from wrestling to television wasn’t instantaneous, but Gutfeld’s belief in him opened doors. After his Red Eye appearances, Tyrus began popping up on other Fox News programs, including The Five and Outnumbered. His size and background made him a curiosity, but it was his authenticity that kept him coming back. Tyrus didn’t try to be a polished pundit; he spoke from the heart, blending blue-collar wisdom with a comedian’s timing. Whether he was weighing in on politics, culture, or absurd headlines, Tyrus had a way of cutting through the noise with a perspective that resonated with viewers.

By 2016, when The Greg Gutfeld Show evolved into Gutfeld!, Tyrus had become a regular panelist. His role was part sidekick, part commentator, and part comedic foil to Gutfeld’s relentless quips. The dynamic was perfect: Gutfeld would lob a sarcastic comment, and Tyrus would counter with a deadpan zinger or a story from his wrestling days that left the audience in stitches. One memorable moment came in 2021 when Gutfeld teased Tyrus about his size, prompting Tyrus to reply, “Greg, I could bench press you and your ego, and still have room for dessert.” The line became an instant classic, cementing Tyrus’s status as a fan favorite.

Off-screen, Tyrus’s work ethic and professionalism won over producers and colleagues. Unlike some media personalities who chase clout, Tyrus approached his Fox News gigs with the same discipline he brought to wrestling. He prepared for each appearance, studied the topics, and never shied away from speaking his mind, even when his opinions diverged from the network’s conservative leanings. His authenticity was his superpower, and it made him stand out in a sea of talking heads.

The Transformation: From Funkasaurus to Fox News Legend

Tyrus’s transformation from wrestling superstar to Fox News legend wasn’t just about screen time; it was about reinvention. Wrestling had taught him how to command attention, but television required a different kind of vulnerability. On Gutfeld!, Tyrus opened up about his life—growing up in tough circumstances, navigating racial stereotypes, and balancing his roles as a father and entertainer. These glimpses into his world made him relatable, turning casual viewers into devoted fans.

One pivotal moment came in 2022 when Tyrus published his memoir, Just Tyrus. The book detailed his journey from a challenging childhood to wrestling fame and his unexpected media career. It also revealed his gratitude toward Gutfeld, whom Tyrus credited for seeing potential in him when others didn’t. The memoir was a bestseller, further solidifying Tyrus’s place in the public eye. During a Gutfeld! episode promoting the book, Gutfeld jokingly took credit for Tyrus’s success, saying, “I basically discovered you, like Columbus discovered America.” Tyrus shot back, “Yeah, but I was already here, Greg, and I didn’t need a map.” The exchange was quintessential Tyrus—humble, witty, and effortlessly charming.

Tyrus’s versatility also played a key role in his rise. Beyond Gutfeld!, he launched his own podcast, Tyrus & The Wise Men, and became a contributor to OutKick, a sports and culture platform. He even scored acting roles, including a recurring part on the drama series The Purge. Each venture showcased his ability to connect with audiences, whether through humor, commentary, or storytelling. But it was his presence on Gutfeld! that remained his calling card, with fans tuning in nightly to see what he’d say next.

The Impact: Why Tyrus Resonates

So, why has Tyrus become a Fox News legend? It’s more than just his banter with Gutfeld or his wrestling pedigree. Tyrus represents something rare in modern media: authenticity. In an era of polished talking points and performative outrage, Tyrus is refreshingly real. He doesn’t pretend to have all the answers, but he’s not afraid to share his perspective, whether it’s about politics, family, or the absurdities of modern life. His humor is self-deprecating, his stories are grounded, and his larger-than-life personality fills the room without overshadowing others.

Tyrus also bridges worlds that rarely intersect. As a Black conservative with a blue-collar background, he challenges stereotypes and sparks conversations that transcend party lines. On Gutfeld!, he’s just as likely to critique “woke” culture as he is to poke fun at overzealous conservatives, earning respect from viewers who appreciate his independence. His ability to navigate these divides with humor and grace has made him a unique voice in media.

Then there’s the Gutfeld factor. Without Gutfeld’s initial “troll” and ongoing mentorship, Tyrus might never have found his way to Fox News. Gutfeld’s knack for spotting talent and fostering chemistry turned a wrestling star into a media juggernaut. Their dynamic—part buddy comedy, part intellectual sparring—has been a cornerstone of Gutfeld!’s success, helping the show overtake late-night giants like Jimmy Fallon and Stephen Colbert in ratings.

The Legacy: A Star Who Defies Expectations

Today, Tyrus is more than a Fox News personality; he’s a cultural figure who defies easy categorization. He’s a wrestler-turned-commentator, a comedian-turned-author, and a larger-than-life character who’s as comfortable debating policy as he is cracking jokes. His journey from the ring to the studio is a testament to his resilience, adaptability, and undeniable charisma.

As for Gutfeld, he remains Tyrus’s biggest cheerleader, often joking that he “created a monster.” But the truth is, Tyrus was always a star—he just needed the right stage. That playful troll in 2014 was the nudge that set it all in motion, turning a wrestling titan into a Fox News legend. And if you ask Tyrus, he’ll tell you he’s just getting started. “I’ve been body-slamming guys my whole life,” he said on a recent Gutfeld! episode. “Now I’m body-slamming bad ideas, and it feels even better.”

For fans, the real joy is watching Tyrus and Gutfeld continue to riff, troll, and entertain, proving that sometimes, the most unexpected partnerships create the most unforgettable stories.