Tyrus and the Troll That Sparked a FOX News Journey

In the world of television, where personalities clash and moments become legends, few stories capture the magic of serendipity quite like Tyrus’s journey from NWA World Heavyweight Champion to FOX News contributor. At the heart of this tale lies a single, unforgettable prank—a “troll” orchestrated by the razor-witted Greg Gutfeld—that not only launched Tyrus into the media spotlight but also forged a friendship and a career that would resonate with audiences for years. As Janice Dean recounted with tears of laughter on her podcast, Tyrus’s retelling of this pivotal moment is a masterclass in humor, heart, and the unpredictable alchemy of live television. So, let’s dive into the story of how a wrestling giant became a FOX News fixture, all thanks to a mischievous moment that still has everyone buzzing.

The Stage is Set: Tyrus Meets Gutfeld

George Murdoch, known to the world as Tyrus, was no stranger to the spotlight before his FOX News days. A towering figure in professional wrestling, Tyrus had dominated rings as the NWA World Heavyweight Champion, captivating fans with his larger-than-life presence and undeniable charisma. But in 2018, when he first stepped onto the set of The Greg Gutfeld Show (later rebranded as Gutfeld!), he was a relative unknown in the world of political commentary and late-night television. Tyrus was, in his own words, “foot wet, foot dry”—a rookie navigating a new arena, unsure of what to expect.

Greg Gutfeld, the host known for his biting humor and penchant for pushing boundaries, saw something in Tyrus that others might have overlooked. Gutfeld’s style thrives on the unexpected—whether it’s a provocative debate, a cheeky jab, or a full-on troll designed to catch his guests off guard. And Tyrus, with his quick wit and unflappable demeanor, was the perfect canvas for Gutfeld’s brand of chaos. As Tyrus later shared on Janice Dean’s podcast, it was one such moment of orchestrated mischief that changed the trajectory of his career.

The Troll That Started It All

While the specifics of the “troll” remain a bit of a mystery—perhaps deliberately so, as Tyrus and Gutfeld seem to relish keeping fans guessing—the story goes that Gutfeld set Tyrus up for an on-air moment that was equal parts hilarious and revealing. Picture this: Tyrus, a 6’7” wrestling titan, sitting on the Gutfeld! panel, surrounded by seasoned commentators. Gutfeld, with his trademark smirk, lobs a curveball—an absurd question, a provocative setup, or maybe even a staged scenario designed to test Tyrus’s mettle. Whatever it was, Tyrus didn’t just survive the moment; he owned it. His response, laced with humor and authenticity, caught the audience’s attention and, more importantly, Gutfeld’s.

Janice Dean, reflecting on that 2018 appearance during her podcast, admitted she didn’t recall the exact troll. “I was watching,” she laughed, “but I totally blanked on that moment!” She wasn’t alone. Back then, Tyrus was still a newcomer, his larger-than-life personality yet to fully shine in the media world. But for those who caught it, that fleeting interaction was a spark—a glimpse of the chemistry between Tyrus and Gutfeld that would soon make Gutfeld! must-watch TV. As Tyrus recounted the story, his infectious laughter and vivid storytelling brought the moment to life, leaving Dean and her listeners wishing they could rewind the tape.

From Guest to Star: Tyrus’s Rise

That single troll was more than just a funny anecdote; it was a turning point. Gutfeld, recognizing Tyrus’s ability to roll with the punches and deliver sharp, relatable commentary, began inviting him back. What started as a guest spot evolved into a regular role, with Tyrus becoming a beloved fixture on Gutfeld!. His blend of humor, street-smarts, and unapologetic opinions resonated with viewers, who saw in him a refreshing departure from the typical talking heads.

Tyrus’s wrestling background gave him a unique edge. Just as he’d once navigated the scripted drama of the ring, he now thrived in the unpredictable world of live television. Gutfeld’s “troll” had inadvertently trained Tyrus to expect the unexpected—whether it was a heated political debate, a controversial hot take, or a comedic bit that pushed the boundaries of good taste. As Tyrus put it, those early moments on Gutfeld! taught him to “stay ready,” a skill that would serve him well as he tackled everything from cultural commentary to lighthearted stunts, like presenting Donald Trump with a wrestling championship belt on-air in 2024.

The Gutfeld Effect: A Friendship Forged in Chaos

Beyond the professional boost, Tyrus’s connection with Gutfeld grew into something deeper—a friendship rooted in mutual respect and shared irreverence. Tyrus has never shied away from crediting Gutfeld for his success, often calling Gutfeld! “the greatest show on earth.” In interviews, podcasts, and social media posts, he’s described Gutfeld as a mentor and a brother-in-arms, someone whose bold style pushed him to find his own voice. On X, Tyrus has shared countless behind-the-scenes moments from the show, from playful banter with Gutfeld to heartfelt reflections on their bond.

Gutfeld’s influence is evident in Tyrus’s on-air persona. The quick-witted comebacks, the willingness to tackle tough topics with humor, the ability to turn a potentially awkward moment into TV gold—all bear the hallmarks of Gutfeld’s coaching. Yet Tyrus brought his own flavor to the mix, blending his blue-collar roots and wrestling bravado with a knack for connecting with everyday viewers. Together, they created a dynamic that’s kept Gutfeld! at the top of the late-night ratings, outpacing even traditional giants like The Tonight Show.

Janice Dean’s Revelation and the Fans’ Curiosity

When Tyrus shared the troll story on Janice Dean’s podcast, it was a revelation—not just for Dean but for fans who’d followed his journey. Dean’s reaction, a mix of amusement and disbelief, captured the magic of the moment. “How did I miss this?” she exclaimed, echoing the sentiments of countless viewers who now see Tyrus as a FOX News staple. The story’s charm lies in its relatability: a newcomer, thrust into an unfamiliar world, rises to the occasion thanks to a well-timed push from a friend.

The podcast episode reignited curiosity about that 2018 troll. On X, fans speculated about what it could have been—a zinger about Tyrus’s wrestling days? A staged argument gone hilariously off-script? Whatever it was, the lack of specifics only adds to the legend. Tyrus, ever the showman, seems content to let the mystery linger, dropping just enough hints to keep fans hooked.

A Legacy of Laughter and Loyalty

Today, Tyrus is more than just a contributor; he’s a cultural force. His memoir, Just Tyrus, and his podcast, Tyrus & The Wise Men, offer glimpses into the man behind the persona—a father, a storyteller, and a fiercely loyal friend. His journey from the wrestling ring to the FOX News studio is a testament to the power of taking chances, embracing the unexpected, and finding allies who believe in you.

As for that fateful troll, it remains a cherished piece of Gutfeld! lore—a reminder that sometimes, the smallest moments can spark the biggest changes. Tyrus’s gratitude for Gutfeld and his unwavering love for the show shine through in every retelling. For fans, it’s a story that captures the heart of what makes Gutfeld! special: unfiltered, unpredictable, and undeniably human.

So, the next time you tune into Gutfeld!, keep an eye out for Tyrus. Behind his booming laugh and sharp commentary lies a man who turned a troll into a triumph—and a friendship that’s still writing its next chapter.