Though not quite to the sport what Cypress Hill is to hip-hop, Sean Waltman is nonetheless a martyr for weed and wrestling
In the truly wild world of pro wrestling, where outrageous personalities and jaw-dropping performances rule, one pugilist has stood out above all others not just for his in-ring skills, but also for his unique reputation—Sean Waltman, better known as X-Pac.
While the legendary underdog has made a major impact across the wrestling spectrum with noteworthy moves, plotlines, and contributions, it’s his connection to something unusual for the terrain—cannabis—that makes him a contender for the superlative title of most stoned wrestler of all time.
Born in 1972 in Minneapolis, Waltman started his journey under the lights in the early 1990s. He’s had monikers galore, often based on his physique, becoming the 1-2-3 Kid, Syxx, and X-Pac, with each leaving its mark.
But it was during his time as Syxx in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) and later as X-Pac in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF, now WWE) that Waltman began to really lean into his stoner image.
His link to marijuana became more obvious as he played characters that were edgy and rebellious. The laid-back attitude, chill vibe, and use of the phrase “Too Sweet”—something often seen as connected to weed culture—all added up to the idea that he smokes Os and foes alike.
At the peak of the “Attitude Era” in the late 1990s, Waltman was down with the beloved D-Generation X crew. The gang was all about grinding against the rules, and they openly embraced the counterculture—the perfect place for Waltman to show off his stoner persona.
Outside of the ring, stories from fellow scrappers and people who knew him give us a glimpse into Waltman’s relationship with trees behind closed doors. There are tales about him using weed to relax and deal with the tough wrestling life. And it worked; despite his reputation for partying, he still managed to rock the ring for ages and earn lasting respect from his peers and fans.
Considering when it all happened, it’s noteworthy that Waltman’s stoner schtick made a mark far beyond the mat. His run started at a time when prohibitionists in most entertainment realms would have blocked such antics on account of taboos and beliefs that they make drug use appeal to kids. In short, he was a trendsetter.
His prime era was all about pushing boundaries and being different, and Waltman’s character fit right into that vibe. His unique style made wrestling feel more real and relatable to loads of fans who didn’t have too many smoker-chokers to look up to.
