Army Reservist Turned Pro Wrestler Champions in Mexico

Travis Lopes Jr. learned discipline in the Army National Guard, but he's using it to fly through the air as a world champion wrestler.

The father of two joined the military at 20, never imagining those skills would help him achieve his childhood dream. Today, he's known as Flip Gordon, the current world historic middleweight champion for Mexico's legendary Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL).

"If it wasn't for the Army, I don't think I ever would have made it as a professional wrestler," Lopes told Fox News Digital. His military training taught him the work ethic needed to handle grueling travel schedules, strict diets, and long stretches away from family.

In 2015, he moved from Idaho to Massachusetts to begin his wrestling journey. Nearly 11 years later, he's competed in more than 15 countries and built a life in Mexico doing what he loves.

His path to CMLL almost ended before it began. In September 2017, he arrived for his debut at the company's anniversary show while still under contract with Ring of Honor. Then a massive earthquake hit Mexico, canceling shows for a week.

Instead of leaving, Lopes asked to stay. He offered to wrestle for free if the company would just cover his hotel. That extra week changed everything.

Why This Inspires

Watching Mexico's wrestling community rally together after the earthquake reminded Lopes of military camaraderie. The way an entire culture supported each other during crisis felt like coming home.

He fell in love with the country, the food, and lucha libre wrestling. The same discipline that helped him serve his country now helps him honor the legacy of legends like Eddie Guerrero and Chris Jericho, who competed for CMLL before becoming global stars.

His college experience as a mascot working with cheerleaders and gymnasts taught him body control. His military service taught him mental toughness. Together, they created a champion.

This week in Las Vegas, Lopes helps CMLL make history with its first solo U.S. show during WrestleMania week. He'll team with Capitán Suicida in a tag match that celebrates how far discipline and dreams can take you.

From Army reservist to world champion, Lopes proves the skills we learn in service can launch us toward any goal.