Montel Vontavious Porter
{{Short description|American professional wrestler (born 1973)}}
{{Redirect|MVP (wrestler)|the wrestler who used the name "The MVP"|Dale Torborg}}
{{Good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2022}}
{{Infobox professional wrestler
|name = Montel Vontavious Porter
|image = MVP 2019-2.jpg
|image_size = 230px
|caption = MVP in 2019
|birthname = Alvin Burke Jr.
|birth_date = {{birth date and age|mf=yes|1973|10|28}}
|birth_place = Miami, Florida, U.S.
|death_date =
|death_place =
|children = 1
|names = Antonio Banks
Antonio Bank$
Lord of War{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_57257.shtml|title=MVP reveals anti-U.S. character in WRP|date=January 22, 2012|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=January 23, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}{{cite journal|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|author-link=Dave Meltzer|date=October 24, 2011|title=October 24 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2011 Hall of Fame issue, GSP down, Bound for Glory and Bobby Roode, Hogan vs. Sting, giant issue|periodical=Wrestling Observer Newsletter|location=Campbell, CA|issn=1083-9593|page=37|quote=Jeff Katz's Wrestling Revolution Project taped its first season in Los Angeles this past week. [...] MVP is now The Lord of War, and dresses up and wrestles like Masahiro Chono, including using the STF and Yakuza kick as his big moves.}}
Montel Vontavious Porter
MVP
|billed = Miami, Florida{{cite web|publisher=WWE|title=MVP's WWE Profile|access-date=November 27, 2016|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/mvp}}
|trainer = Soulman Alex G{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profiles/m/montel-vontavious-porter.html|title=Montel Vontavious Porter profile|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|access-date=April 7, 2007}}
Norman Smiley
|debut = June 29, 1999
|retired =
}}
Hassan Hamid Assad (born Alvin Antonio Burke Jr.; October 28, 1973), better known by his ring name Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP), is an American professional wrestler, manager, and submission grappler. He is signed to All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he is the on-screen manager of The Hurt Syndicate. He has also worked in WWE, TNA, and NJPW. He is a two-time WWE United States Champion, a one-time WWE Tag Team Champion (with Matt Hardy), and a one-time (and the inaugural) IWGP Intercontinental Champion.
After concluding his training under Soulman Alex G and Norman Smiley, MVP began wrestling for numerous independent promotions, including a stint in TNA. He won various championships in singles competition. He first signed with WWE in 2005 and was assigned to DSW, one of the company's developmental territories at the time. After being promoted to the SmackDown brand, he made his WWE debut in October 2006. During that time, his first United States Championship reign ended after 343 days, making him the longest-reigning United States Champion in SmackDown history.
After his departure from WWE in 2010, MVP joined NJPW in 2011 and spent the next two years there before leaving in 2013. He subsequently returned to the independent circuit and made appearances in TNA and ROH. He returned to WWE in January 2020 and left in August 2024, debuting in AEW the following month.
Early life
Alvin Antonio Burke Jr.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/Bios/mvp.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718065100/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/Bios/mvp.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 18, 2012|title=Slam! Sports — Wrestling — Montel Vontavious Porter|last=Xamin|first=Mark|author2=Kamchen, Richard|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|work=Slam! Sports|access-date=October 15, 2007}} was born in the Liberty City neighborhood of Miami, Florida, on October 28, 1973.{{cite web|url=http://www.dc.state.fl.us/InmateReleases/detail.asp?Bookmark=1&From=list&SessionID=254775830|title=Inmate Release Information Detail|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923213056/http://www.dc.state.fl.us/InmateReleases/detail.asp?Bookmark=1&From=list&SessionID=254775830|archive-date=September 23, 2015|access-date=May 26, 2007|publisher=Florida Department of Corrections|url-status=dead}} He grew up in Opa-locka, Florida. His father was a police officer. He joined a gang when he was 12, describing it as a "graffiti gang" which later turned into a street gang. He spent six months in a juvenile detention center after a robbery, and was later sentenced to 18 and a half years behind bars for armed robbery and kidnapping, of which he served nine and a half years starting at age 16.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/superstarink/articles/mvp|title=Ink from the clink|last=Zeigler|first=Zack|access-date=November 10, 2007|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/04/14/4013402.html|title=Slam! Sports — Wrestling — A true MVP — take it to the bank|date=April 14, 2007|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|work=Slam! Sports|last=Baines|first=Tim|access-date=October 15, 2007|archive-date=June 29, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629120512/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/04/14/4013402.html|url-status=usurped}} He converted to Islam while in prison, but is now an atheist.{{cite tweet|number=902020121643929600|user=The305MVP|title=I'm an atheist. Believers, PLEASE explain something to me. If the hurricane is an "act of God", what do prayers do? Serious question. |access-date=August 27, 2021|language=en|date=August 28, 2017}}{{cite tweet|user=The305MVP|author=MVP|number=256585045962280960|date=October 12, 2012|title=I'm a NON believer. I'm not attacking anyone's faith. I just feel religious organizations should NOT be tax exempt. Believe what you will.}}{{Cite news|url=http://www.miaminewtimes.com/2014-03-06/news/wrestler-mvp-tna-opalocka/full/|title=Wrestler MVP Went From Prison-Bound Opa-locka Teen to Superstar in the Ring|last=Fishman|first=Scott|date=March 6, 2014|work=Miami New Times|access-date=February 22, 2018}}{{cite tweet|user=The305MVP|author=MVP|number=1297587708060209153|date=August 23, 2020|title=With 2 (potential) Hurricanes bearing down on the Gulf Coast states I'm dreading the seemingly inevitable reports of COVID-19 ripping through evacuation shelters. If I believed in gods I would send prayers. I don't. So I can only hope for a better outcome. Be safe out there!}} Due to his criminal record, his visits to other countries on wrestling tours are subject to permits and background checks for recent behavior. Unrelated to his record, he was unable to attend WWE's shows in Saudi Arabia, where his status as a Muslim-turned-atheist is considered punishable by death.{{cite web | url=https://www.ringsidenews.com/2022/11/05/mvp-not-traveling-to-wwe-crown-jewel-in-saudi-arabia-to-avoid-punishable-offence-from-his-past/ | title=MVP Not Traveling to WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia to Avoid Punishable Offence from His Past | date=November 5, 2022 }}
Professional wrestling career
= Early career (1999–2005) =
Assad entered the professional wrestling business through the help of a corrections officer in his prison who also worked as a wrestler in the independent circuit.{{cite web|url=http://www.gotricities.com/content/article.dna?idNumber=5725|title=MVP looking to be a 'beacon of hope'|publisher=GoTricities|access-date=August 1, 2008|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080805053210/http://www.gotricities.com/content/article.dna?idNumber=5725|archive-date=August 5, 2008}} After being trained by former professional wrestlers Soulman Alex G and Norman Smiley, Assad made his wrestling debut in 2002.{{cite web|url=http://alanwojcik.com/archives/id21.html|title=Alan Wojcik interviews Antonio Banks|date=March 22, 2003|last=Wojcik|first=Alan|access-date=December 21, 2006|publisher=Alan Wojcik Archives|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090716025529/http://alanwojcik.com/archives/id21.html|archive-date=July 16, 2009}} He worked for many different companies on the independent circuit using the name Antonio Banks, including appearances with Full Impact Pro (FIP) and Future of Wrestling (FOW), where he won the latter's Tag Team Championship with Punisher.{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/fip/|title=Full Impact Pro results|publisher= Online World of Wrestling|access-date=April 7, 2007}} During his time in FIP, he wrestled Homicide for the World Heavyweight Championship at the Ring of Honor show Do or Die IV on February 19, 2005, but did not win the title.{{cite web|url=http://www.rohwrestling.com/pastresults.php|title=Do or Die IV- Elizabeth, NJ 2/19/05|date=February 19, 2005|access-date=June 25, 2010|publisher=Ring of Honor|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528134439/http://www.rohwrestling.com/pastresults.php |archive-date=May 28, 2010}} He also made sporadic appearances for Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), and wrestled on the April 20, 2003, episode of TNA Xplosion.{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/tna/030416.html|publisher=Online World of Wrestling|access-date= January 5, 2008|title=NWA: Total Nonstop Action PPV results — April 13, 2003}} He appeared again for TNA on the August 6, 2004, episode of Impact!, with Sal Rinauro as his tag team partner, losing to America's Most Wanted.{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/results/tnaimpact/040806.html|title=TNA Wrestling Results — NWA:TNA Imacpt|date=August 6, 2004|access-date=March 8, 2009|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}} He also wrestled for Coastal Championship Wrestling (CCW) and Elite Wrestling Entertainment in 2005, competing against wrestlers like Jerry Lynn and D'Lo Brown. In CCW, he won the Heavyweight Championship on August 20, 2005, by defeating Blackhart and Bruno Sassi in a three-way match.
= World Wrestling Entertainment (2005-2010)=
== Deep South Wrestling (2005–2006) ==
In 2005, after a number of live events and dark matches, Assad signed a developmental contract with World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) and was assigned to their developmental territory Deep South Wrestling. He originally wrestled under his "Antonio Banks" ring name, but then developed the Montel Vontavious Porter (MVP) in-ring persona: an arrogant, self-obsessed athlete.{{Cite web|url=https://411mania.com/wrestling/mvp-developement-character-basing-it-on-pro-athletes/|title=411Mania}} He was also on an episode of SmackDown! on January 13, 2005, being one of the police officers in the ring with Kurt Angle.
== Feuding with Kane (2006–2007) ==
As MVP, he made his first appearance on WWE television on the August 4, 2006 episode of SmackDown!, during which announcers described him as a coveted free agent.{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/08042006/|title=Challenge from the grave|date=August 4, 2006|last=Hoffman|first=Brett|newspaper=Wwe|access-date=May 17, 2007|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}} The initial angle involved MVP appearing backstage and in arena crowds, often flanked by women and/or a bodyguard, and talking to SmackDown! General Manager Theodore Long about the contract his (unseen) agent was supposedly aggressively negotiating.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/08/13/1751826.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714082639/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/08/13/1751826.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|title=Smackdown: New blood soaks in the spotlight|date=August 13, 2006|last=Waldman|first=Jon|access-date=February 17, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/08/19/1765452.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120912133739/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/08/19/1765452.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=September 12, 2012|title=Smackdown: Last promos, last stand|date=August 19, 2006|last=Waldman|first=Jon|access-date=February 17, 2009|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|work=Slam! Sports}} Throughout his segments, commentators described MVP as arrogant, noting that he would stop conversations in the middle to answer his mobile phone or admire his own jewelry while people were speaking to him. Finally, on September 26, a video of a press conference announcing the signing of MVP to "the largest contract in SmackDown! history" was uploaded to WWE.com.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/content/media/video/specialty_clips/3199666/3295654/0927mvppressconf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071116045630/http://www.wwe.com/content/media/video/specialty_clips/3199666/3295654/0927mvppressconf|title=WWE.COM Exclusive – MVP Press conference|publisher=WWE|date=September 26, 2006|archive-date=November 16, 2007|access-date=February 2, 2019}}
MVP made his in-ring debut at No Mercy on October 8 as a heel with a ring entrance featuring an NFL-like inflatable tunnel, before defeating Marty Garner.{{cite journal|author=PWI Staff|journal=Pro Wrestling Illustrated|series=2007|volume=Wrestling almanac & book of facts|title=Wrestling's historical cards|publisher=Kappa Publishing Group|year=2007|page=122}} During the match, commentators Michael Cole and John "Bradshaw" Layfield (JBL) decried the choice of opponent, since it had been implied that it would be someone "more competent", and joined in with fans mocking his athletic suit styled ring gear, calling him "pathetic" while the fans chanted Power Ranger.{{cite news|first=Zack|last=Zeigler|access-date=April 7, 2007|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nomercy/history/2006/matches/322528241/results/|title=MVP: Most Valuable Phony?|newspaper=Wwe|date=October 8, 2006|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}}{{cite web|url=http://sports.ign.com/articles/791/791766p1.html|title=MVP Interview|access-date=October 6, 2007|publisher=IGN|archive-date=October 13, 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071013212519/http://sports.ign.com/articles/791/791766p1.html|url-status=dead}} On the following episode of SmackDown!, MVP made a demand for a tougher opponent to prove his mettle, which was answered by Kane making his SmackDown! debut.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/10/14/2024830.html|title=Smackdown: Batista is #1|date=October 14, 2006|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=February 17, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=July 14, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714075520/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/10/14/2024830.html|url-status=usurped}} The two feuded for the next two months, with MVP narrowly scoring wins over Kane in a Street Fight, a Steel Cage match and tag team matches with Mr. Kennedy against the reunited Brothers of Destruction, before losing to Kane in an Inferno match at Armageddon on December 17, from which he suffered storyline first-degree burns.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/11/18/2404878.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713185017/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/11/18/2404878.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 13, 2012|title=Smackdown: Batista crowns the King|date=November 18, 2006|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=February 17, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/11/25/2488695.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713201504/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2006/11/25/2488695.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 13, 2012|title=Smackdown: A royal thrashing|date=November 25, 2006|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=February 17, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/armageddon/exclusives/385758021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070506135128/http://www.wwe.com/shows/armageddon/exclusives/385758021|title=MVP remains in burn unit| archive-date=May 6, 2007|date=December 19, 2006|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}} Because of the burns he was "out of action" for a short time, during which on the December 22 episode of SmackDown!, color commentator JBL expressed rage with the fans for cheering a match where the only way of achieving victory is to set an opponent on fire.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/12222006/|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment|title=Bells will be ringing|date=December 22, 2006|first=Lennie|last=DiFino|access-date= April 7, 2007}}
== United States Champion (2007–2009) ==
File:BenoitHbWm23.jpg debut against Chris Benoit at the 23rd iteration of the event]]
When his feud with Kane ended, MVP began a feud with the WWE United States Champion Chris Benoit over Benoit's title.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/03/10/3726308.html|title=Smackdown: Batista and 'Taker tune up for 'Mania|date=March 10, 2007|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=February 18, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=July 17, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717213024/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/03/10/3726308.html|url-status=usurped}} During the buildup for a title match with Benoit, MVP appeared on SmackDown! introducing various supposed champions from around the world, defeating them in squash matches.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/03/17/3769805.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718093028/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/03/17/3769805.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 18, 2012|title=Smackdown: Batista feels the Dead Man's wrath|date=March 17, 2007|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=February 18, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/03/24/3821721.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120719225749/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/03/24/3821721.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 19, 2012|title=Smackdown: Lashley dominates Kennedy and Orton|date=March 24, 2007|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=February 18, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite journal|author=PWI Staff|journal=Pro Wrestling Illustrated|title=Arena reports|date=June 2007|page=132|publisher=Kappa Publishing Group}} MVP lost to Benoit at WrestleMania 23 on April 1, 2007 and at Backlash on April 29,{{cite journal|last=McElvaney|first=Kevin|journal=Pro Wrestling Illustrated|title=WrestleMania 23|publisher=Kappa Publishing Group|date=June 2007|pages=74–101}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/04/29/4140920.html|title=No filler makes for a consistent Backlash|date=April 29, 2007|last=Elliott|first=Brian|access-date=February 17, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=April 19, 2015|archive-url=https://archive.today/20150419051211/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/04/29/4140920.html|url-status=usurped}} but finally defeated Benoit in a Two out of three falls match at Judgment Day on May 20, with MVP winning the United States Championship, his first WWE title, in two straight falls.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/05/21/4197038.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120911065612/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/05/21/4197038.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=September 11, 2012|title=WWE just passes on Judgment Day|date=May 21, 2007|last=Elliott|first=Brian|access-date=February 17, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} MVP credits his time working with Benoit for improving his in-ring skill. In his first pay-per-view championship defense at Vengeance: Night of Champions on June 24, MVP defeated Ric Flair to retain the title.{{cite web|first=Corey|last=Clayton|title=MVP puts on legendary show with win over Flair|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/history/2007/matches/4842036/resultsflairMVP06242007/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100831022900/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nightofchampions/history/2007/matches/4842036/resultsflairMVP06242007/|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment|date=June 24, 2007|archive-date=August 31, 2010|access-date=November 6, 2007}}
His first major feud as the champion was against Matt Hardy, whom he started claiming to be better than at everything, after defeating him at The Great American Bash on July 22.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/07/23/4361554.html|title=Cena still champ after busy Bash|date=July 23, 2007|last=Plummer|first=Dale|author2=Tylwalk, Nick|access-date=February 17, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=June 29, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629045647/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/07/23/4361554.html|url-status=usurped}} When MVP was legitimately diagnosed with the heart condition Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome, it was written into the storyline, with MVP blaming the condition for his losing an arm wrestling match against Hardy on the August 3 episode of SmackDown!.{{cite web|title=MVP's Most Valuable Program|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment|access-date=August 10, 2007|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/08102007/articles/mvpmostvaluableprogram|date=August 10, 2007}}{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/archive/08102007/|title=Answer to the challenge?|date=August 10, 2007|last=Fuhrman|first=Alissa|access-date=September 26, 2007|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}} When MVP was given an interview segment during SmackDown!, the VIP Lounge, it was used to bow out of a scheduled boxing match on the August 18 episode of Saturday Night's Main Event—with Evander Holyfield replacing him, and eventually punching out MVP during the bout.{{cite news|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/snme/history/aug182007/articles/boxingmatch|title=MVP = TKO|date=August 18, 2007|last=Dee|first=Louie|newspaper = Wwe|access-date=August 19, 2007|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}} On the August 24 episode of SmackDown!, MVP bragged to General Manager Theodore Long that he was so good, he could win the WWE Tag Team Championship with anybody, prompting Long to grant him a championship match alongside the next person who entered the room, who turned out to be Hardy.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/08/27/4450237.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629143624/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/08/27/4450237.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Smackdown: Batista bloodies Khali|date=August 27, 2007|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=February 17, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} The following week on the August 31 episode of SmackDown!, MVP and Hardy won the WWE Tag Team Championship from Deuce 'n Domino, making MVP a double champion.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/09/01/4462709.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120731150753/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/09/01/4462709.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 31, 2012|title=Smackdown: Mysterio flies high|date=September 1, 2007|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=February 17, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} MVP and Hardy's contentious relationship had them competing with each other in various ways while MVP proclaimed himself "Captain" of the team. In the months coming, MVP started getting along better with Hardy, including helping him defeat Finlay on the October 19 episode of SmackDown!.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2007/10/20/4591722.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160111060707/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2007/10/20/4591722.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=January 11, 2016|title=SmackDown: Mysterio flies high in England|work=SLAM! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|date=October 19, 2007|access-date=February 2, 2019}}
File:MVP Oshkosh WI 030808.jpg in 2008]]
Their reign together came to an end on the November 16 episode of SmackDown! after Hardy demanded a shot at the United States Championship, but MVP declined, and announced they had a WWE Tag Team Championship defense against John Morrison and the Miz instead.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/11/17/4663686.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629045650/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/11/17/4663686.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Smackdown: Batista demolishes Henry|date=November 17, 2007|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=February 18, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} They lost the match and the titles, and immediately afterwards, MVP invoked the rematch clause, but they lost that match as well. MVP then attacked Hardy, targeting his knee, which in storyline had been injured during the matches, and put him "out of action". Hardy suffered a legitimate ruptured appendix while he was off television, putting their feud on hold.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/11/24/4682149.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717064354/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/11/24/4682149.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 17, 2012|title=Rah-rah-RAW for Jericho|date=November 24, 2007|first=Tim|last=Baines|access-date=April 23, 2008|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|work=Slam! Sports}} While Hardy recovered, MVP engaged in short feuds with Rey Mysterio (losing a title match by countout at Armageddon on December 16) and Ric Flair (losing a career threatening match at the Royal Rumble on January 27, 2008).{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/11/22/4678051.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716134038/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2007/11/22/4678051.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 16, 2012|title=Smackdown: U.S. spoiler edition|date=November 22, 2007|last= Waldman|first=Jon|access-date=February 18, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web|url= http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/12/17/4728475.html|archive-url= https://archive.today/20120629101307/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2007/12/17/4728475.html|url-status= usurped|archive-date= June 29, 2012|title=Edge brings in the clones to win at Armageddon|date= December 17, 2007|last=Kapur|first=Bob|access-date=February 17, 2009|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer| work=Slam! Sports}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/01/19/4782365.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714163829/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/01/19/4782365.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|title=Smackdown: Backstage we go...|date=January 19, 2008|last= Waldman|first=Jon|access-date=February 18, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web|url= http://www.wwe.com/shows/royalrumble/history/2008/matches/6141204/results/|title=A Flair for greatness| date=January 27, 2008|last=DiFino| first=Lennie|access-date=February 18, 2009|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}}{{Cite web|last=Madison|first=Marc|date=February 27, 2021|title=MVP {{!}} Wrestling's Unsung Hero for the Culture -|url=https://prowrestlingpost.com/mvp-wrestlings-unsung-hero-for-the-culture/|access-date=April 1, 2021|website=ProWrestlingPost.com|language=en-us}}{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2022}} At No Way Out on February 17, he competed in the SmackDown Elimination Chamber match for a World Heavyweight Championship opportunity at WrestleMania XXIV on March 30, but was eliminated by Finlay after The Undertaker chokeslammed him off the top of a chamber pod.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/history/2008/matches/6364982/results/ |access-date=February 17, 2008 |title=The Deadman doubles down |publisher=WWE |last=Dee |first=Louis |date=February 17, 2008 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090225063218/http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/history/2008/matches/6364982/results/ |archive-date=February 25, 2009 }} He would instead participate in the Money in the Bank ladder match at WrestleMania, and during the match, Hardy made an unannounced return and knocked MVP from the ladder with his signature Twist of Fate maneuver, costing him the match and reigniting their feud.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/WrestleMania24/2008/03/31/5148416.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120628224249/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/WrestleMania24/2008/03/31/5148416.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 28, 2012|title=Mayweather, Orton survive Mania; Edge, Flair don't|date=March 31, 2008|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=February 17, 2009|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|work=Slam! Sports}} At Backlash on April 27, MVP lost the United States Championship to Hardy, ending his record reign at 343 days, which was at the time the longest reign of the WWE era, and the third longest in the entire history of the championship (the record has since broken by Dean Ambrose in 2014).{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/04/28/5407546.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716191007/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/04/28/5407546.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 16, 2012|title=HHH reigns again after Backlash|date=April 28, 2008|last=Hillhouse|first=Dave|access-date=February 17, 2009| publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|work=Slam! Sports}} He then subsequently failed to regain the championship in a rematch on the May 2 episode of SmackDown.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2008/05/03/5461746.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160310092047/http://slam.canoe.com/Slam/Wrestling/2008/05/03/5461746.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 10, 2016|title=Smackdown: The Undertaker is stripped!|work=SLAM! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|first=Andy|last=McNamara|date=May 2, 2008|access-date=February 2, 2019}}
Beginning on the August 29 episode of SmackDown, MVP developed a losing streak that lasted over five months, losing in both singles and tag team matches.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/08/30/6616906.html|title=Smackdown: Game over for Triple H?|date=August 30, 2008|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=March 8, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=June 29, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629120452/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/08/30/6616906.html|url-status=usurped}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/09/06/6681911.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629120452/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/09/06/6681911.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Smackdown: Triple H suffers a Twist of Fate|date=September 6, 2008|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=March 8, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/09/27/6899081.html|title=Smackdown: So long, farewell...|date=September 27, 2008|last=Waldman|first=Jon|access-date=March 8, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=June 29, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629120454/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/09/27/6899081.html|url-status=usurped}} At Unforgiven on September 7, he challenged for the WWE Championship in the Championship Scramble match, but was unsuccessful, continuing his losing streak.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/09/08/6698911.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629151951/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2008/09/08/6698911.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Scramble matches make for wild Unforgiven|date=September 8, 2008|last=Bishop| first=Matt|access-date=February 17, 2009|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|work=Slam! Sports}} The losing streak meant that, in storyline, MVP did not receive "his contract incentive bonus", and also was no longer allowed his usual entrance with the NFL-like inflatable tunnel.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/news/mvpbigthingsarepoppingagain|title=Big things are poppin' again|date=January 20, 2009|last=Burdick|first=Michael|access-date=February 18, 2009|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}} During this losing streak he had a short feud with The Great Khali.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/11/07/7343226.html|title=Smackdown: Hardy goes Extreme!|date=November 7, 2008|last=McNamara|first=Andy|access-date=March 8, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=June 29, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629120455/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/11/07/7343226.html|url-status=usurped}}{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/11/15/7422966.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629120510/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2008/11/15/7422966.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Smackdown: Hardy goes to the extreme|date=November 15, 2008|last=Waldman|first=Jon|access-date=March 8, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} On the January 16, 2009 episode of SmackDown, MVP finally broke the losing streak by defeating Big Show in a Last Man Standing match with help from Triple H, as he was fighting to ensure that Triple H would be allowed to compete in the Royal Rumble match at the Royal Rumble on January 25, in the process turning him face for the first time in his career.{{cite web |url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/01/16/8052761.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713181005/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/01/16/8052761.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 13, 2012|title=Smackdown: Hardy blows up!|date=January 16, 2009|last=McNamara| first=Andy|access-date=March 8, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} On the 500th episode of SmackDown on March 20, MVP won the United States Championship for the second time by defeating Shelton Benjamin.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_30775.shtml|title=WWE News: Full results from Smackdown TV taping — major return of WWE divas (contains spoilers)|date=March 18, 2009|last=Caba|first=Carlos|access-date=March 18, 2009|publisher=PW Torch}}{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/unitedstates/9613096|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120603034405/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/unitedstates/9613096|url-status=dead|title=Montel Vontavious Porter's second United States Championship reign|date=March 20, 2009|archive-date=June 3, 2012|access-date=March 21, 2009|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}} At WrestleMania 25 on April 5, MVP competed in the Money in the Bank ladder match for the second year in a row, but failed to win.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/04/06/9019551.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629103158/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2009/04/06/9019551.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=Wrestlemania 25: HBK-Undertaker steals the show|date=April 6, 2009|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=April 6, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}
== Teaming with Mark Henry and departure (2009–2010) ==
On the April 13 episode of Raw, MVP was drafted as the first overall pick to the Raw brand as a part of the 2009 WWE draft. As a result of being the reigning WWE United States Champion, he transferred the title to Raw for the first time in history.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2009draft/|title=2009 WWE Draft|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment|access-date=April 14, 2009}} He lost the title to Kofi Kingston on the June 1 episode of Raw,{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/06/01/9644971.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713201020/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2009/06/01/9644971.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 13, 2012|title=Raw: Orton, Legacy end Flair|last=Plummer|first=Dale|date=June 1, 2009|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|access-date=June 2, 2009}} before beginning a feud with Jack Swagger, which culminated in a match at SummerSlam on August 23, which MVP won.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2009/matches/11290488/results/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100721211446/http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/history/2009/matches/11290488/results/|title=MVP prevails in war of the worlds|last=Vermillion|first=James|date=August 23, 2009|archive-date=July 21, 2010|access-date=August 23, 2009|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}} He then formed a tag team with Mark Henry, and they challenged Jeri-Show (Chris Jericho and Big Show) for the Unified WWE Tag Team Championship at the Breaking Point pay-per-view on September 13, but they failed to win the championship. At Survivor Series on November 22, MVP and Henry made up part of Team Kofi, competing against Team Orton in a 5-on-5 tag team elimination match. Although both MVP and Henry were eliminated, Team Kofi would go onto to win the match.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/survivorseries/2009/matches/12468432|title=Team Kingston def. Team Orton (Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Tag Team Match)|date=November 22, 2009|access-date=May 1, 2012|publisher=WWE}}
File:Chris Masters and MVP (Dec 2009).jpg in December 2009]]
After beginning a feud with The Miz, MVP faced him for the WWE United States Championship at the Royal Rumble on January 31, 2010, but was unable to win.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/02/01/12692216.html|title=The 2010 Royal Rumble is Rated R in Atlanta|last=Plummer|first=Dale|author2=Tylwalk, Nick|date=February 1, 2010|access-date=June 7, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=June 30, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630051046/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/02/01/12692216.html|url-status=usurped}} After the match, both also participated in the Royal Rumble match itself. MVP entered 14th and was surprise-attacked by The Miz (who was not yet an official entrant) who hit him with the United States title belt. MVP later recovered and entered the match (having not been eliminated) to eliminate both himself and The Miz. MVP challenged The Miz for the title a second time at the Elimination Chamber pay-per-view on February 21 but was once again unable to win after interference from Big Show.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/02/22/12978356.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120721135441/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/02/22/12978356.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 21, 2012|title=Batista, Jericho and Michaels capitalize on Elimination Chamber opportunities|last=Plummer|first=Dale|author2=Tylwalk, Nick|date=February 22, 2010|access-date=June 7, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}} He also competed in the Money in the Bank ladder match at WrestleMania XXVI on March 28, but was unable to win.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/WrestleMania26/2010/03/29/13391706.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630024236/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/WrestleMania26/2010/03/29/13391706.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 30, 2012|title=Undertaker ends Shawn Michaels' career in thrilling rematch to cap off Wrestlemania XXVI|last=Plummer|first=Dale|author2=Tylwalk, Nick|date=March 29, 2010|access-date=June 7, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}
As part of the 2010 WWE supplemental draft, MVP was drafted back to the SmackDown brand.{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2010draft/2010supplementaldraftresults|title=2010 WWE Supplemental Draft results|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment|access-date=April 27, 2010}} He made his SmackDown return on the April 30 episode, interrupting CM Punk's promo, and later teaming up with Rey Mysterio to defeat Punk and Luke Gallows.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/05/01/13790226.html|title=Smackdown!: Comings and goings|date=May 1, 2010|last=Hillhouse|first=Dave|access-date=May 1, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer|archive-date=July 13, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713161004/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/05/01/13790226.html|url-status=usurped}} On June 1, MVP was announced as the mentor of Percy Watson for the second season of WWE NXT;{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/06/01/14222371.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120629045655/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/06/01/14222371.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 29, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Barrett wins show's first season|date=June 1, 2010|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=June 2, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_41691.shtml|title=WWE News: NXT Results – Season Two announced, Pro & Rookie pairings revealed|date=June 1, 2013|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=June 1, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Watson was eliminated from the competition on August 17, finishing fifth overall.{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_43193.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE NXT results 8/17: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT Season 2, Week 11|last=Caldwell|first=Nick|date=August 17, 2010|access-date=June 7, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On the November 5 episode of SmackDown, MVP fought in a triple threat match for the number one contendership of Dolph Ziggler's Intercontinental Championship against Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. The match was won by MVP, and the championship match was set for the following week's SmackDown, but MVP was unsuccessful in winning the title.{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_45077.shtml|title=KELLER'S WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT 11/5: Kane to the Rescue? Nexus blurs brand split even further, MVP and Kaval compare zippers|date=November 5, 2010|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|access-date=June 7, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} MVP was announced as part of Team Mysterio, teaming with Rey Mysterio, Big Show, Chris Masters and Kofi Kingston to take on Team Del Rio (Alberto Del Rio, Tyler Reks, Jack Swagger, Drew McIntyre and Cody Rhodes) at Survivor Series on November 21. At Survivor Series, MVP was the first man eliminated in the match by McIntyre, who was aided by Del Rio holding MVP's foot down so he could not kick out. MVP's team was able to win the match with Rey Mysterio and Big Show being sole survivors.{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_45451.shtml|title=CALDWELL'S WWE SURVIVOR SERIES PPV RESULTS 11/21: Complete "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Cena's decision, six title matches|date=November 21, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=June 7, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} MVP's last match with the WWE aired on the December 3 episode of SmackDown, teaming with Kaval in a losing effort against Drew McIntyre and Dolph Ziggler; afterward, he and Kaval were attacked by Kane. MVP was released from his WWE contract earlier on December 2.{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/12/04/pf-16430176.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714063441/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/12/04/pf-16430176.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|title=Smackdown: Three men and a dummy|date=December 4, 2010|last=Hillhouse|first=Dave|access-date=June 7, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=Canadian Online Explorer}}{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_45731.shtml|title=WWE News: Top News - MVP released by WWE on Thursday, MVP comments on his release|date=December 2, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=December 2, 2010|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}}
= New Japan Pro-Wrestling (2011–2013) =
In 2011, Assad signed a one-year contract with New Japan Pro-Wrestling, pursuing his noted passion for puroresu.{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=MVP officially booked for New Japan card in February, details on his first match in Japan|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_47274.shtml|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=January 31, 2011|date=January 31, 2011}} TMZ reported that Assad's prior convictions had made it difficult for him to acquire a visa but that he would be debuting in February.{{cite web|title=Former WWE Star – Cleared to Kick Ass in Japan|url=http://www.tmz.com/2011/01/31/wwe-wrestling-mvp-montel-vontavious-porter-alvin-burke-new-japan-pro-wrestling-visa-felon-arrest-armed-robbery-kidnapping-criminal-crime/|publisher=TMZ|access-date=January 31, 2011|date=January 31, 2011}} As WWE owned the rights to the name Montel Vontavious Porter, but not MVP, Assad was able to continue working under the abbreviated ring name.{{cite news|title=MVP officially booked for New Japan card in February, details on his first match in Japan|url=http://www.wrestlingnewsworld.com/details-mvp-using-mvp-tna-trademark-wwe-owns-video-debut/|work=Wrestling News World|last=Gray|first=Richard|access-date=May 13, 2014|date=January 31, 2014}}{{unreliable source?|date=March 2015}} In storyline MVP was brought in to the promotion by Nosawa Rongai, who wanted him to join the villainous Kojima-gun, led by Satoshi Kojima.{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=2551|title=NOSAWA: MVP is coming to New Japan|date=January 31, 2011|work=Strong Style Spirit|access-date=February 20, 2011}} In his debut match for the promotion on February 20 at The New Beginning, MVP teamed with fellow Kojima-gun member Taichi to defeat Togi Makabe and Tomoaki Honma in a tag team match by making Honma submit to his Take it to the Bank crucifix neck crank.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=142|title=The New Beginning|date=February 20, 2011|access-date=February 20, 2011|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|language=ja}} On March 6, MVP entered the 2011 New Japan Cup, used to determine the new number one contender to the IWGP Heavyweight Championship, defeating Karl Anderson in his first round match.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1299428170|title=MVP successful in round one of the New Japan Cup|last=Gerweck|first=Steve|date=March 6, 2011|access-date=March 6, 2011|work=WrestleView}} On March 19, MVP suffered his first loss in New Japan, when he was defeated by Togi Makabe in the second round of the New Japan Cup.{{cite web | url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_48582.shtml|title=Japan News: Updated – MVP loses second round New Japan Cup match Saturday, watch highlights of MVP's first round match (w/video)|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=March 19, 2011|access-date=March 19, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} The following day, MVP achieved a major victory when he tapped IWGP Heavyweight Champion Hiroshi Tanahashi out with the TTB in a tag team match, where he teamed with Satoshi Kojima and Tanahashi with Hirooki Goto.{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=2666|title=(Results) New Japan, 3/20/11|date=March 20, 2011|access-date=March 23, 2011|work=Strong Style Spirit}} On May 3, the returning Minoru Suzuki took over as the new leader of Kojima-gun, after its members Taichi and Taka Michinoku had turned on Satoshi Kojima.{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=2776|title=(Results) New Japan, 5/3/11|date=May 3, 2011|access-date=May 3, 2011|work=Strong Style Spirit}}
File:Montel Vontavious Porter NJPW.JPG in June 2011]]
In May 2011, MVP took part in the Invasion Tour 2011, New Japan's first tour of the United States. On May 13 in Rahway, New Jersey, he entered the tournament to determine the first ever IWGP Intercontinental Champion, defeating Kazuchika Okada in his first round match.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1305392240|title=5/13 New Japan Pro Wrestling Results: Rahway, NJ|last=Martin|first=Adam|date=May 14, 2011|access-date=May 15, 2011|work=WrestleView}} The following day in New York City, MVP defeated Tetsuya Naito to advance to the finals of the tournament.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1305481617|title=5/14 New Japan Pro Wrestling Results: New York|last=Martin|first=Adam|date=May 15, 2011|access-date=May 15, 2011|work=WrestleView}} On the third and final day of the tour in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, MVP defeated Toru Yano in the finals to become the first IWGP Intercontinental Champion.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_50088.shtml|title=NJPW News: MVP becomes first-ever IWGP Intercontinental champion Sunday capping off "Invasion" tour|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=May 15, 2011|access-date=May 16, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Earlier in the event, MVP showed his allegiance to Satoshi Kojima by saving him from the debuting Lance Archer, thus breaking away from the newly renamed Suzuki-gun.{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=2833|title=(Results) New Japan, 5/15/11 (USA)|date=May 15, 2011|access-date=May 15, 2011|work=Strong Style Spirit}} On June 18 at Dominion 6.18, MVP made his first successful defense of the IWGP Intercontinental Championship by defeating Toru Yano. After the match, Yano attacked him and cut his hair.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=230|title=Dominion 6.18|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|access-date=June 18, 2011|language=ja}}{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_50865.shtml|title=NJPW News: Results from Dominion PPV Saturday – MVP's first IWGP IC Title defense, TNA wrestler appears, key title change|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=June 18, 2011|access-date=June 19, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} The two would face each other in a third title match on July 18, where MVP was once again victorious.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=303|title=New Japan Soul 2011|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|access-date=July 18, 2011|language=ja}} After the match MVP was attacked and challenged by Yano's Chaos stablemate Masato Tanaka.{{cite web|url=http://www.puroresufan.com/njpw/?p=3001|title=(Results) New Japan, 7/18/11|date=July 18, 2011|access-date=July 18, 2011|work=Strong Style Spirit}} In August, MVP took part in the 2011 G1 Climax, where he managed to win six out of his nine matches, but a loss to Karl Anderson on the final day of the tournament caused him to narrowly miss advancing to the finals.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=322|title=ブシロード Presents G1 Climax XXI ～The Invincible Fighter～|date=August 14, 2011|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|access-date=August 14, 2011|language=ja}} On October 10 at Destruction '11, MVP lost the IWGP Intercontinental Championship to Masato Tanaka, ending his reign at 148 days.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=412|title=Destruction '11|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|access-date=October 10, 2011|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111014001109/http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=412|archive-date=October 14, 2011|url-status=dead}} MVP received a rematch for the title on December 4, but was again defeated by Tanaka, following interference from his stablemate Yujiro Takahashi.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=481|title=New Japan Alive 2011|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|access-date=December 4, 2011|language=ja}}
On January 4, 2012, at Wrestle Kingdom VI in Tokyo Dome, MVP teamed with Shelton Benjamin, making a special one-time appearance, to defeat Tanaka and Takahashi in a tag team match.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=470|title=NJPW 40th anniversary Tour. レッスルキングダムVI in 東京ドーム|access-date=January 4, 2012|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120108044116/http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=470|archive-date=January 8, 2012}} MVP reunited with Benjamin on June 16 at Dominion 6.16, where they defeated Karl Anderson and Tama Tonga in a tag team match.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=584|title=Dominion 6.16|access-date=July 31, 2012|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|language=ja}} In August, MVP took part in his second G1 Climax tournament, where he won four out of his eight matches and failed to advance to the finals.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=605|title=カードファイト!! ヴァンガード Presents NJPW 40th anniversary Tour G1 Climax 22 ～The One And Only～|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|access-date=August 12, 2012|language=ja}}{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_64211.shtml|title=NJPW: Former TNA wrestler wins G1|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=August 12, 2012|access-date=August 12, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} In November, MVP took part in the 2012 World Tag League, where he teamed with Shelton Benjamin under the tag team name "Black Dynamite".{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/news/detail.php?nid=8507|title=11月20日(火)開幕!! 『World Tag League 2012』の出場メンバー決定!! 棚橋はなんとキャプテンとタッグ結成!!|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|date=November 11, 2012|access-date=November 28, 2012|language=ja}} MVP and Benjamin finished their tournament on December 1 with a record of three wins, one over the reigning IWGP Tag Team Champions K.E.S. (Davey Boy Smith Jr. and Lance Archer),{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=649|title=NJPW 40ｔｈ anniversary Tour World Tag League 2012|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|access-date=December 1, 2012|language=ja}} and three losses, failing to advance from their block.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=654|title=NJPW 40ｔｈ anniversary Tour World Tag League 2012|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|access-date=December 1, 2012|language=ja}}
On January 4, 2013, at Wrestle Kingdom 7 in Tokyo Dome, MVP teamed with Akebono, Manabu Nakanishi and Strong Man in an eight-man tag team match, where they defeated Bob Sapp, Takashi Iizuka, Toru Yano and Yujiro Takahashi.{{cite web|url=http://www.njpw.co.jp/match/detail_result.php?e=657|title=Wrestle Kingdom 7 ～Evolution～ in 東京ドーム|access-date=January 4, 2013|work=New Japan Pro-Wrestling|language=ja}}{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Arena_Reports_10/article_67650.shtml|title=Show Results – 1/4 New Japan Tokyo Dome Show: Former WWE stars in undercard matches, Tanahashi vs. Okada, did any titles change hands?|date=January 4, 2013|access-date=January 4, 2013|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On February 26, Assad announced that he had parted ways with New Japan and would be next focusing on a television project with Lionsgate Television.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/Other_News_4/article_68941.shtml|title=News: MVP announces end of New Japan run; returning to WWE?|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=February 26, 2013|access-date=February 26, 2013|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} He later explained his reasons behind leaving the promotion, saying that he wanted to stay closer to his home in addition to just "recharging the batteries".{{cite web|url=http://www.pwinsider.com/article/80577/mvp-discusses-why-hes-open-to-a-tna-run-deciding-to-leave-new-japan-wwe-and-more.html?p=1|title=MVP discusses why he's open to a TNA run, deciding to leave New Japan, WWE and more|last=Ryker|first=Mike|date=September 28, 2013|access-date=October 11, 2013|work=Pro Wrestling Insider}}
= Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (2014–2015, 2019) =
File:TNA MVP debut.jpg ring in January 2014]]
At the January 30, 2014, tapings of Impact Wrestling, Assad returned to TNA using the MVP name, where he was pointed as the storyline "investor" of TNA. As an authority figure, he signed The Wolves and counteracting TNA President Dixie Carter's agenda.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TNA_News_1/article_76036.shtml|title=TNA News: spoiler – "New Investor" revealed|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=January 30, 2014|access-date=January 30, 2014|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} Both feuded over the control of TNA until Lockdown, where two teams, representing MVP and Carter, face each other. MVP's team defeated Dixie's team with an assist from special referee Bully Ray, earning MVP total control of wrestling operations.{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/458981-tna-lockdown-ppv-results-3914/9|title=TNA Lockdown PPV Results (3/9): Who Has Control of TNA Wrestling? Wrestle-1 Takes on Bad Influence, Blockbuster Returns & More|last=Killam|first=Mike|date=March 9, 2014|access-date=March 10, 2014|work=Wrestlezone}}
However, MVP turned heel when, on the May 8 episode of Impact Wrestling, he attacked TNA World Heavyweight Champion Eric Young and announced himself as the number one contender to the title at Slammiversary XII. However, MVP suffered a legit torn meniscus and was removed from the match. According to PWInsider, the original plans were to crown MVP as champion.{{cite web|url=http://www.pwinsider.com/article/86669/tna-injury-update-departures-and-more-spoiler-notes.html?p=1|title=TNA INJURY UPDATE, DEPARTURES AND MORE SPOILER NOTES|last=Johnson|first=Mike|date=February 7, 2014|work=PWInsider}} After that, MVP and Kenny King helped Lashley win the TNA World Heavyweight Championship from Eric Young, but MVP was substituted by Kurt Angle as the on-screen authority figure. From there, MVP acted as Lashley and King's manager (and occasional partner after his knee's condition improved), while feuding with Angle in promos. He defeated Kazma Sakamoto at Bound for Glory and, on the November 5 episode of Impact Wrestling, MVP lost to Bobby Roode in a TNA World Heavyweight Championship match.
In January 2015, MVP formed a new group, the Beat Down Clan with King, Samoa Joe, Low Ki, and Eric Young, helping Lashley to regain the championship from Roode. MVP attempted to present Lashley as the centerpiece of the Clan as well as a "founding member" (officially establishing the MVP-Lashley-King trio as the foundation of the BDC as a faction). However, Lashley turned on them and the Beat Down Clan attacked him. At Impact Wrestling: Lockdown (2015), Team Angle (Kurt Angle, Austin Aries, Gunner, and Lashley) defeated The BDC (MVP, Samoa Joe, Low Ki, and Kenny King) in a Lethal Lockdown match. On February 27 broadcast of Impact Wrestling, MVP faced Lashley for the title, but was defeated. In April, The Beat Down Clan started a feud against the newly formed The Rising (Drew Galloway, Eli Drake and Micah), having several matches between the stables until the June 24, 2015 (aired July 1) episode of Impact Wrestling, where The Beat Down Clan defeated The Rising in a 4-on-3 Handicap match, forcing The Rising to dissolve. On July 17, 2015, MVP officially left TNA.{{cite tweet|user=The305MVP|author=MVP|number=622175566419095552|date=July 17, 2015|title=Dear @IMPACTWRESTLING I dedicate this classic to you. It was fun... "Bad Brains – Sailing On" on YouTube -}} He was reportedly released in the fallout of a contract dispute between TNA and Lucha Underground. MVP had pushed for TNA to sign Hernandez, even though he was at the time still under contract to Lucha Underground. When Lucha Underground contacted TNA, they released Hernandez and were forced to re-edit all segments he had been involved in at the past tapings.{{Cite web|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/95230/another-tna-star-gone-as-a-result-of-the-hernandez-issue.html?p=1|title=ANOTHER TNA STAR GONE AS A RESULT OF THE HERNANDEZ ISSUE {{!}} PWInsider.com|website=pwinsider.com|access-date=February 22, 2018}}
On September 13, 2019, he made an appearance for TNA, now known as Impact Wrestling at their Operation Override Twitch special. In the match, he challenged for WCR's World Class Championship against the champion Chavo Guerrero Jr.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/impact-wrestling-presents-operation-override-live-coverage-sami-callihan-vs-eddie-edwards/page/0/1|title=IMPACT Wrestling Operation: Override Results Sami Callihan vs Eddie Edwards in a Street Fight • Page 2 {{pipe}} Fightful Wrestling|website=www.fightful.com|access-date=September 14, 2019|archive-date=January 18, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210118005332/https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/impact-wrestling-presents-operation-override-live-coverage-sami-callihan-vs-eddie-edwards/page/0/1|url-status=dead}} Due to the disqualification finish, the two had a rematch at the following night's Victory Road Impact Plus Monthly Specials.{{cite tweet|number=1172675976788107264|user=IMPACTWRESTLING|title=After getting disqualified in their match at #OperationOverride, @mexwarrior must once again defend his… |date=September 14, 2019}}
= Independent circuit (2013–2019) =
MVP has made frequent appearances for Tommy Dreamer's House of Hardcore (HOH) promotion. He wrestled at the second and third events when the promotion was starting up in 2013.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=561&page=4&search=Hoh|title=Matches « MVP « Wrestlers Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}} After his stint in TNA, MVP defeated Moose at House of Hardcore XVI in August 2016 in his return to the promotion.{{Cite web|url=http://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=152714|title=HOH XVI « Events Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|last=Kreikenbohm|first=Philip|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 22, 2018}} He went on to appear at nine straight shows for the promotion in 2017, wrestling the likes of Jack Swagger, Tommy Dreamer, Billy Gunn and Matt Cross among others.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=561&page=4&search=Hoh|title=Matches « MVP « Wrestlers Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}} At December 1, 2018, he made his most recent appearance for the promotion, defeating Big Cass at HOH 51.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=217142|title=HOH 51: Blizzard Brawl « Events Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}}
He announced on March 31, 2016, that he would be joining Lucha Underground. However, days later, on April 8, he announced his release from the company due to inadvertently violating terms of his contract by interviewing members of the roster for his podcast.{{Cite web|url=http://pwinsider.com/article/101210/mvp-announces-departure-from-lucha-underground.html?p=1|title=MVP ANNOUNCES DEPARTURE FROM LUCHA UNDERGROUND {{!}} PWInsider.com|website=pwinsider.com|access-date=February 22, 2018}} On October 10, 2016, MVP defeated Jody Kristofferson for the All Pro Wrestling (APW) Universal Heavyweight Championship.{{Cite web|url=http://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=160895|title=APW Halloween Hell XX « Events Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|last=Kreikenbohm|first=Philip|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 22, 2018}} MVP fought Rob Van Dam for the PCW Ultra Heavyweight Championship on March 24, 2017, in a losing effort.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=168427|title=PCW High Tide « Events Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}} The following day, MVP lost the APW Universal Heavyweight Championship to Luster the Legend. His June 22, 2018, return to APW resulted in a loss to Penta El 0M.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=561&page=4|title=Matches « MVP « Wrestlers Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}}
In early 2018 MVP wrestled two matches for Booker T's promotion Reality of Wrestling. On February 25, 2018, he won a battle royal for the Big League Wrestling World Heavyweight Championship, a title he still holds. In March 2018 he wrestled in Istanbul, Turkey for Turkish Power Wrestling in the main event. He debuted for AAW Wrestling on August 4, 2018, in a match where he beat Eddie Kingston.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=561&page=4&search=Aaw|title=Matches « MVP « Wrestlers Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}}
During early 2019 he wrestled most frequently for World Class Revolution (WCR), a promotion based out of Oklahoma.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=561&page=4&search=wcr|title=Matches « MVP « Wrestlers Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}} Also during 2019 he wrestled for Oakland's Hoodslam Wrestling and Alberto El Patron's new Mexican promotion Nación Lucha Libre.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=2&nr=561&page=4&search=2019|title=Matches « MVP « Wrestlers Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net}}
= Major League Wrestling (2017–2018) =
Due to his podcast on Court Bauer's MLW Radio Network, MVP was chosen as one of the wrestlers for the newly relaunched Major League Wrestling (MLW). He appeared at their first show since 2004, One Shot beating Sami Callihan in a no-disqualification match October 5, 2017.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2017/10/06/105-mlw-one-shot-orlando-fla-strickland-vs-ricochet-mvp-vs-callihan-lawlor-vs-cobb-return-date-announced/|title=10/5 MLW One Shot in Orlando, Fla.: Strickland vs. Ricochet, MVP vs. Callihan, Lawlor vs. Cobb, return date announced -|date=October 6, 2017}} He also joined the company as an agent, producing talent promos and matches.{{Cite web|url=https://www.stitcher.com/s?fid=94547|title=VIP Lounge with MVP|website=www.stitcher.com}} In February 2018, MVP participated in the tournament to crown a new MLW World Heavyweight Champion, the first one since the promotion's revival. He was beaten in the first round by Tom Lawlor.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=191221|title=MLW Road To The World Championship « Events Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}} Two months later he made his debut on their new weekly program MLW Fusion in a match against Callihan, that MVP lost.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=198181|title=MLW Fusion #3 – Rise Of The Worldwide Desperado « Events Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}} MVP continued his feud with Callihan by defeating one of Callihan's partners Leon Scott by DQ on the June 8 episode of MLW Fusion.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=200130|title=MLW Fusion #8 – The Bounty « Events Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}} On July 1, 2018, MVP revealed he had parted ways with MLW and MLW Radio.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/mvp-announces-his-departure-major-league-wrestling|title=MVP Announces His Departure From Major League Wrestling {{!}} Fightful Wrestling|website=www.fightful.com|date=July 2018 |language=en|access-date=February 7, 2019}} His final match for the promotion aired on July 6, 2018. It was a Boiler Room Brawl that was won by Sami Callihan ending their feud.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/07/09/7-6-mlw-fusion-tv-report-mvp-vs-sami-callihan-in-boiler-room-brawl-lawler-gotch-vs-ach-swann/|title=7/6 MLW Fusion TV Report: MVP vs. Sami Callihan in Boiler Room Brawl, Lawler & Gotch vs. ACH & Swann -|date=July 9, 2018}}
= Ring of Honor (2019) =
On January 25, 2019, MVP made a return to Ring of Honor (ROH) at their Road To G1 Supercard show in Houston, Texas. This was his first appearance for the company since one match in 2005, where he wrestled as Antonio Banks. At the show he debuted as a surprise partner of Kenny King, reforming the Beat Down Clan.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/former-iwgp-intercontinental-champion-mvp-makes-his-roh-debut-road-g1-supercard-houston|title=Former IWGP Intercontinental Champion MVP Makes His ROH Debut At 'Road To G1 Supercard' In Houston {{!}} Fightful Wrestling|website=www.fightful.com|language=en|access-date=February 7, 2019}}{{Cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2019/01/26/1-25-roh-road-to-g1-supercard-in-houston-results-mvp-makes-a-surprise-appearance-in-tag-wars-lifeblood-vs-bully-ray-shane-taylor-silas-young-and-the-briscoes-jay-lethal-vs-vinny-marseglia-for/|title=1/25 ROH Road To G1 Supercard in Houston results: MVP makes a surprise appearance in Tag Wars, Lifeblood vs. Bully Ray, Shane Taylor, Silas Young, and The Briscoes, Jay Lethal vs. Vinny Marseglia for the ROH Title, Kelly Klein vs. Britt Baker for the WOH Championship|date=January 26, 2019}} They would go on to defeat the team of Willie Mack and Colt Cabana advancing them in the Tag Wars tournament.{{Cite web|url=https://www.solowrestling.com/new/77957-mvp-aparece-en-roh-para-reformar-el-beatdown-clan|title=MVP aparece en ROH para reformar el Beatdown Clan|last=Solowrestling|date=January 26, 2019|website=www.solowrestling.com|language=es|access-date=February 7, 2019}} The winners of Tag Wars were set to receive a ROH World Tag Team Championship title shot at ROH's 17th-anniversary pay-per-view and a spot in the Crockett Cup tournament.{{Cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/roh-results/roh-road-g1-supercard-houston-results-night-two-tag-wars-275421|title=ROH Road to G1 Supercard Houston results: Night two of Tag Wars|date=January 26, 2019|website=WON/F4W – WWE news, Pro Wrestling News, WWE Results, UFC News, UFC results|language=en|access-date=February 7, 2019}} However, MVP and King lost in the semi-finals of the tournament to Brody King and PCO.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=1&nr=218221|title=ROH Road To G1 Supercard – Tag 3 « Events Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}}
= Return to WWE (2018, 2020–2024) =
== Sporadic appearances and return (2018, 2020) ==
On January 22, 2018, MVP made a special appearance on the 25th-anniversary episode of Raw as a guest WWE legend, in a poker segment also involving The APA (Bradshaw and Ron Simmons), and Ted DiBiase.{{cite web|last1=Deangelo|first1=Dominic|title=EDITORIAL: I got worked by Raw 25 – I got too hyped and ended up disappointed with another corporate agenda-pushing episode|url=https://www.pwtorch.com/site/2018/01/23/editorial-got-worked-raw-25-got-hyped-ended-disappointed-another-corporate-agenda-pushing-episode/|website=pwtorch.com|access-date=January 22, 2018|date=January 22, 2018}} This marked his first WWE appearance of any kind in since December 2010, at that point.{{cite web|last=Campbell|first=Brian|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-25-results-recap-new-champion-austin-stuns-mcmahon-taker-too-sweet/|title=WWE Raw results, recap: New champion, Austin stuns McMahon, Taker, 'Too Sweet'|date=January 23, 2018|access-date=June 20, 2018|work=CBS Sports}}
When Paul Heyman worked as executive director of the Raw brand, Assad called him asking for a spot on the Royal Rumble match, since it was going to be held in Houston. Heyman agreed if he had also one match on Raw the next day. At the end, WWE and Assad made an agreement to work as a wrestler, manager, producer and commentator.{{Cite web | url=https://solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com/new/105472-paul-heyman-revela-como-trajo-de-vuelta-a-mvp-a-wwe | title=Paul Heyman revela cómo trajo de vuelta a MVP a WWE | date=January 28, 2022 }} On January 26, 2020, at the Royal Rumble pay-per-view, MVP would return again, as a face, as a surprise entrant at #12 in the Royal Rumble match, where he was quickly eliminated by Brock Lesnar; this marked MVP's first time in a WWE ring in 10 years.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Royal Rumble results: Powell's live review of the Royal Rumble matches, "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt vs. Daniel Bryan in a strap match for the WWE Universal Championship, Becky Lynch vs. Asuka for the Raw Women's Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/01/26/wwe-royal-rumble-results-powells-live-review-of-the-royal-rumble-matches-the-fiend-bray-wyatt-vs-daniel-bryan-in-a-strap-match-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-becky-lynch-vs-asuka-for-th/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=January 26, 2020|access-date=January 26, 2020}} The next night on Raw, MVP had a match with Rey Mysterio, which he lost.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=01/27 WWE Raw Results: Powell's review of Edge's return, Royal Rumble winners Drew McIntyre and Charlotte Flair, Seth Rollins and Buddy Murphy vs. Samoa Joe and Kevin Owens for the Raw Tag Titles, Liv Morgan vs. Lana |url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/01/27/01-27-wwe-raw-results-powells-review-of-edges-return-royal-rumble-winners-drew-mcintyre-and-charlotte-flair-seth-rollins-and-buddy-murphy-vs-samoa-joe-and-kevin-owens-for-the-raw-tag-titles-l/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=January 28, 2020|date=January 27, 2020}} On the February 10 episode of Raw, MVP brought back "The VIP Lounge," with his guest being 2020 Royal Rumble winner Drew McIntyre.{{cite web|last1=Benigno|first1=Anthony|title=Drew McIntyre threw down with MVP on The VIP Lounge|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/wwe-raw-feb-10-2020/article/drew-mcintyre-mvp-vip-lounge|website=wwe.com|publisher=WWE|access-date=February 10, 2020}} During the segment, MVP turned heel for the first time since 2009, insulting the fans, and trying to advise McIntyre to be managed by him. However, McIntyre disregarded the advice and subsequently attacked MVP.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=2/10 WWE Raw Results: Powell's review of Becky Lynch vs. Asuka for the Raw Women's Championship, Seth Rollins, Murphy, and AOP vs. Samoa Joe, Kevin Owens, and The Viking Raiders in an eight-man tag match, the build to WWE Super ShowDown continues|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/02/10/2-10-wwe-raw-results-powells-review-of-becky-lynch-vs-asuka-for-the-raw-womens-championship-seth-rollins-murphy-and-aop-vs-samoa-joe-kevin-owens-and-the-viking-raiders-in-an-eight-man-tag/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=February 10, 2020|access-date=February 11, 2020}} The following week, MVP announced that he was hired by WWE as a backstage producer, while still being an on-screen performer.{{cite web |last1=Satin |first1=Ryan |title=MVP Hired As Backstage Producer In WWE |url=https://www.prowrestlingsheet.com/mvp-hired-wwe-backstage-producer/#.XkyRyCROnDs |website=Pro Wrestling Sheet |date=February 17, 2020 |access-date=February 19, 2020}} On the April 20 episode of Raw, MVP faced Apollo Crews to qualify for the Money in the Bank ladder match, but was defeated.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=4/20 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Money in the Bank qualifying matches featuring Rey Mysterio vs. Murphy, Aleister Black vs. Austin Theory, MVP vs. Apollo Crews|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/04/20/4-20-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-money-in-the-bank-qualifying-matches-featuring-rey-mysterio-vs-murphy-aleister-black-vs-austin-theory-mvp-vs-apollo-crews/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=April 20, 2020|access-date=April 20, 2020}}
== The Hurt Business (2020–2022) ==
{{Main|The Hurt Business (professional wrestling)|l1=The Hurt Business}}
At Money in the Bank on May 10, MVP was scheduled to face R-Truth, but was replaced by Bobby Lashley, who quickly defeated Truth.{{cite web|last=Garretson|first=Jordan|title=Bobby Lashley def. R-Truth|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/moneyinthebank/2020/bobby-lashley-def-r-truth|work=WWE|date=May 10, 2020|access-date=May 10, 2020}}{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Money in the Bank results: Powell's review of the Climb The Corporate Ladder MITB matches, Drew McIntyre vs. Seth Rollins for the WWE Championship, Braun Strowman vs. Bray Wyatt for the WWE Universal Championship, Bayley vs. Tamina for the Smackdown Women's Championship|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/05/10/wwe-money-in-the-bank-results-powells-review-of-the-climb-the-corporate-ladder-mitb-matches-drew-mcintyre-vs-seth-rollins-for-the-wwe-championship-braun-strowman-vs-bray-wyatt-for-the-wwe-unive/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=May 10, 2020|access-date=May 10, 2020}} The following night on Raw, MVP aligned himself with Lashley.{{Cite web|last=Beaston|first=Erik|title=WWE Raw Results: Winners, Grades, Reaction and Highlights from May 11|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2891205-wwe-raw-results-winners-grades-reaction-and-highlights-from-may-11|access-date=July 9, 2020|website=Bleacher Report|language=en}}{{cite web|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/05/11/5-11-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-becky-lynchs-major-announcement-the-return-of-edge-and-randy-orton-lynch-confronting-mitb-winner-asuka-money-in-the-bank-fallout/|title=5/11 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Becky Lynch's major announcement, the return of Edge and Randy Orton, Lynch confronting MITB winner Asuka, Money in the Bank fallout|date=May 11, 2020|last=Powell|first=Jason|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|access-date=May 12, 2020}} At Backlash, MVP managed Lashley as he challenged Drew McIntyre for the WWE Championship, but he was unsuccessful in capturing the title due to an altercation between MVP and Lashley's storyline wife, Lana, that distracted Lashley and allowed McIntyre to retain his championship.{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=WWE Backlash results: Powell's review of Edge vs. Randy Orton, Drew McIntyre vs. Bobby Lashley for the WWE Championship, Asuka vs. Nia Jax for the Raw Women's Championship, Braun Strowman vs. The Miz and John Morrison for the WWE Universal Championship, Jeff Hardy vs. Sheamus|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/06/14/wwe-backlash-results-powells-review-of-edge-vs-randy-orton-drew-mcintyre-vs-bobby-lashley-for-the-wwe-championship-asuka-vs-nia-jax-for-the-raw-womens-championship-braun-strowman-vs-the-mi/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=June 14, 2020|access-date=June 14, 2020}}{{cite web|title=WWE Champion Drew McIntyre def. Bobby Lashley|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/backlash/wwe-backlash-2020/wwe-champion-drew-mcintyre-def-bobby-lashley|work=WWE|first=Jordan|last=Garretson|date=June 14, 2020|access-date=June 14, 2020}} The following night on Raw, Lashley had a rematch against McIntyre for the WWE Championship in a tag team match that also involved MVP and R-Truth, but he lost again when the latter pinned MVP.{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/news/2020/06/wwe-monday-night-raw-live-results-671460/|title=WWE Monday Night RAW Results – Christian In Unsanctioned Match, Backlash Rematch, Dominick Mysterio|website=Wrestling Inc|date=June 15, 2020 }} On the July 20 episode of Raw, Shelton Benjamin joined his stable, now known as The Hurt Business.{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2020-07-20|title=Raw results, July 20, 2020|work=WWE|date=July 20, 2020|access-date=July 20, 2020}}
MVP then started a feud with the United States Champion Apollo Crews, after MVP would offer him his services but Crews turned him down.{{cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/wwe-raw-62220-results-live-coverage-discussion-8pm-est|title=WWE Raw 6/22/20 Results: 3 Title Matches, While Dolph Ziggler & Rey Mysterio Make Their Raw Returns|website=Fightful}} During the storyline, MVP proclaimed himself the real United States Champion when he unveiled a new belt design.{{cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/results/wwe-raw-7620-results-live-coverage-discussion-8pm-est|title=WWE Raw 7/6/20 Results: Champion vs. Champion, Several Returns & A New US Title Belt Is Revealed|website=Fightful}} At The Horror Show at Extreme Rules, Crews did not appear for their scheduled match, so MVP declared himself as the champion.{{Cite web|url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/alfredkonuwa/2020/07/19/wwe-extreme-rules-2020-results-apollo-crews-off-ppv-amid-twitter-speculation/|title = WWE Extreme Rules 2020 Results: Apollo Crews off PPV Amid Twitter Speculation|website = Forbes}} However, MVP faced Crews two times, one at Raw and the other at SummerSlam, failing both times.{{Cite web|title=411MANIA|url=http://411mania.com/wrestling/apollo-crews-undisputed-us-champion-rematch-summerslam/|access-date=August 4, 2020|website=Apollo Crews Crowned Undisputed US Champion, Rematch Set For SummerSlam|language=en-US}}{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE SummerSlam results: Powell's review of Drew McIntyre vs. Randy Orton for the WWE Championship, Braun Strowman vs. The Fiend for the WWE Universal Championship, Mandy Rose vs. Sonya Deville in a No DQ, loser leaves WWE match, Asuka challenges for two titles|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/08/23/wwe-summerslam-results-powells-review-of-drew-mcintyre-vs-randy-orton-for-the-wwe-championship-braun-strowman-vs-the-fiend-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-mandy-rose-vs-sonya-deville-in-a-n/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=August 23, 2020|access-date=August 23, 2020}} At Payback, Lashley defeated Crews to win the United States Championship.{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=WWE Payback results: Powell's review of The Fiend vs. Bray Wyatt vs. Roman Reigns vs. Braun Strowman in a Triple Threat for the WWE Universal Championship, Keith Lee vs. Randy Orton, Sasha Banks and Bayley vs. Shayna Baszler and Nia Jax for the WWE Women's Tag Titles, Matt Riddle vs. King Corbin|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/08/30/wwe-payback-results-powells-review-of-the-fiend-vs-bray-wyatt-vs-roman-reigns-vs-braun-strowman-in-a-triple-threat-for-the-wwe-universal-championship-keith-lee-vs-randy-orton-sasha-banks-and/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=August 30, 2020|access-date=August 30, 2020}}{{cite news|last=Garretson|first=Jordan|title=United States Champion Apollo Crews vs. Bobby Lashley|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwepayback/08-30-2020/united-states-champion-apollo-crews-vs-bobby-lashley|work=WWE|date=August 24, 2020|access-date=August 24, 2020}} On the September 7 episode of Raw, Cedric Alexander joined The Hurt Business when he betrayed Crews and Ricochet during a six-man tag team match, attacking them and helping The Hurt Business win the match.{{Cite web|url=https://www.fightful.com/wrestling/cedric-alexander-turns-ricochet-and-apollo-crews-wwe-raw-flirts-hurt-business|title = Cedric Alexander Turns on Ricochet and Apollo Crews on WWE Raw, Joins the Hurt Business | Fightful News}} At TLC, he was present when Alexander and Benjamin won the Raw Tag Team Championship. In early 2021, MVP suffered a leg injury and began using a crutch to move around, taken him out of in-ring action. He was present when Bobby Lashley won the WWE Championship on the March 1 episode of Raw.
On the March 29 episode of Raw, Lashley attacked Alexander and Benjamin due to them losing the Raw Tag Team Championships and losing to Drew McIntyre in a 2-on-1 handicap match, thus kicking the tag team out of the faction in the process. Lashley would proclaim that The Hurt Business was over.{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/03/29/3-29-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-the-asuka-vs-rhea-ripley-contract-signing-for-the-raw-womens-championship-match-at-wrestlemania-u-s-champion-riddle-vs-sheamus-in-a-non-title-match/|title=3/29 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of the Asuka vs. Rhea Ripley contract signing for the Raw Women's Championship match at WrestleMania, U.S. Champion Riddle vs. Sheamus in a non-title match, the penultimate edition of Raw heading into WrestleMania 37|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=March 29, 2021|access-date=March 30, 2021}} MVP later stated on Twitter that The Hurt Business is still in action, comprising now of just him and Lashley, and that it was open for new members.{{cite tweet|number=1377254874082074628|user=The305MVP|title=To be clear, Bobby Lashley and MVP are The Hurt Business. We are always looking for talented applicants. Have the day you deserve. |date=March 31, 2021}}
On the July 5 episode of Raw, MVP wrestled for the first time since his injury earlier in the year, in a tag match with Bobby Lashley against Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods, also known as The New Day. The team of MVP and Lashley lost the match.{{Cite web|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/wwe-raw-results-recap-grades-kofi-kingston-and-xavier-woods-battle-bobby-lashley-and-mvp-in-main-event/live/|title = WWE Raw results, recap, grades: Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods battle Bobby Lashley and MVP in main event| date=July 6, 2021 }} On the August 30 episode of Raw, MVP and Lashley would challenge RK-Bro for the Raw Tag Team Championships, but were unsuccessful in winning the titles.{{Citation|title=RK-Bro vs. Bobby Lashley & MVP – Raw Tag Team Championship Match: Raw, Aug. 30, 2021|url=https://www.wwe.com/videos/rk-bro-vs-bobby-lashley-mvp-raw-tag-team-championship-match-raw-aug-30-2021|language=en|access-date=September 5, 2021}} On the September 13 episode of Raw, MVP suffered a broken rib after receiving an RKO from Randy Orton, which put him out of action indefinitely.{{Cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|date=September 13, 2021|title=9/13 WWE Raw Results: Powell's live review of Bobby Lashley vs. Randy Orton for the WWE Championship following Big E's threat to cash in the MITB contract, Damian Priest vs. Jeff Hardy for the U.S. Title, Raw Women's Champion Charlotte Flair vs. Shayna Baszler in a non-title match, Rhea Ripley vs. Natalya|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2021/09/13/9-13-wwe-raw-results-powells-live-review-of-bobby-lashley-vs-randy-orton-for-the-wwe-championship-following-big-es-threat-to-cash-in-the-mitb-contract-damian-priest-vs-jeff-hardy-for-the-u-s/|access-date=November 8, 2021|website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net}} He returned on the November 8 episode of Raw, accompanying Lashley to the ring for his match with Dominik Mysterio.{{Cite web|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|date=November 8, 2021|title=WWE Raw Results – 11/8/21 (Seth Rollins vs. Kevin Owens, build to Survivor Series)|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-raw-results/212610-live-wwe-raw-results-november-8-2021-louisville/|access-date=November 8, 2021|website=Wrestleview}}
== Managing with Omos and departure (2022–2024) ==
On the April 4, 2022 episode of Raw, MVP turned on Lashley and aligned himself with Omos.{{cite web|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/wwe/results/wwe-raw-live-results-raw-after-wrestlemania-cody-rhodes-roman-reigns|title=WWE Raw live results: Raw after WrestleMania|access-date=April 5, 2022|website=F4WOnline.com|date=April 4, 2022|first=Steve|last=Khan}} MVP helped Omos defeat Lashley at WrestleMania Backlash.{{cite web|last1=Powell|first1=Jason|title=WWE WrestleMania Backlash results: Powell's live review of Roman Reigns and The Usos vs. Drew McIntyre and RK-Bro, Charlotte Flair vs. Ronda Rousey in an I Quit match for the Smackdown Women's Title, Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins, Edge vs. AJ Styles, Bobby Lashley vs. Omos, Happy Corbin vs. Madcap Moss|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/05/08/wwe-wrestlemania-backlash-results-powells-live-review-of-roman-reigns-and-the-usos-vs-drew-mcintyre-and-rk-bro-charlotte-flair-vs-ronda-rousey-in-an-i-quit-match-for-the-smackdown-womens-title/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=May 8, 2022|access-date=May 8, 2022}} This led to a 2-on-1 handicap match at Hell in a Cell, where MVP and Omos lost to Lashley, ending their feud.{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|title=WWE Hell in a Cell results: Powell's live review of Cody Rhodes vs. Seth Rollins in a HIAC match, Bianca Belair vs. Asuka vs. Becky Lynch for the Raw Women's Title, Theory vs. Mustafa Ali for the U.S. Title, Bobby Lashley vs. Omos and MVP in a handicap match, Kevin Owens vs. Ezekiel, Judgment Day vs. AJ Styles, Finn Balor, and Liv Morgan|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2022/06/05/wwe-hell-in-a-cell-results-powells-live-review-of-cody-rhodes-vs-seth-rollins-in-a-hiac-match-bianca-belair-vs-asuka-vs-becky-lynch-for-the-raw-womens-title-theory-vs-mustafa-ali-for-the-u/|work=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=June 5, 2022|access-date=June 5, 2022}} He would accompany Omos to the ring throughout 2023 and 2024. His last appearance was accompanying Omos to the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal on the SmackDown before WrestleMania XL. On August 16, 2024, MVP’s contract expired and his profile on WWE's website was moved to the alumni section officially ending his second tenure with the promotion.{{Cite news |date=2024-07-23 |title=MVP's potential departure from WWE sparks speculation on future in wrestling |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/wwe/top-stories/mvps-potential-departure-from-wwe-sparks-speculation-on-future-in-wrestling/articleshow/111968928.cms |access-date=2024-07-26 |work=The Times of India |issn=0971-8257}}
Prior to MVP's departure from WWE during a June 2024 interview, it was revealed that The Hurt Business was planned to be reformed but after Vince McMahon retired in 2022, a new creative regime led by Paul "Triple H" Levesque was against the reformation of the group.{{cite web | last=Kelly | first=Andrew | url=https://cultaholic.com/posts/mvp-reveals-triple-h-chose-not-to-reform-the-hurt-business | title=MVP Reveals Triple H Chose Not to Reform the Hurt Business }} MVP also accused WWE of stealing the stable's gimmick and giving it to The Bloodline.{{cite web | last=Mukherjee | first=Subhojeet | url=https://www.ringsidenews.com/2024/06/23/mvp-accuses-wwe-of-adapting-hurt-business-gimmick-for-the-bloodline/ | title=MVP Accuses WWE of Adapting Hurt Business Gimmick for the Bloodline | date=June 23, 2024 }}
= Return to the independent circuit (2024–present) =
On July 28, 2024, MVP debuted for Game Changer Wrestling (GCW) at Josh Barnett's Bloodsport XI, where he announced that he'd be leaving WWE and challenged Josh Barnett to a match.{{Cite web |last=G |first=Joey |date=2024-07-29 |title=MVP Appears At Josh Barnett's Bloodsport XI, Confirms That He Is Leaving WWE |url=https://wrestlingheadlines.com/mvp-appears-at-josh-barnetts-bloodsport-xi-confirms-that-he-is-leaving-wwe/ |access-date=2024-07-29 |website=Wrestling Headlines |language=en-US}} On November 24 at Josh Barnett's Bloodsport XII, MVP was defeated by Barnett via technical submission.{{cite web|date=November 24, 2024|title=Bloodsport XII live results: Josh Barnett vs. MVP, WWE NXT wrestlers compete|url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/other-wrestling/bloodsport-xii-live-results-josh-barnett-vs-mvp-wwe-nxt-wrestlers-compete/|access-date=November 25, 2024|website=F4W/WON|language=en-GB|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241125232716/https://www.f4wonline.com/news/other-wrestling/bloodsport-xii-live-results-josh-barnett-vs-mvp-wwe-nxt-wrestlers-compete/|archive-date=November 25, 2024|url-status=live}}
= All Elite Wrestling (2024–present) =
{{Main|The Hurt Syndicate}}
File:MVP AEW Grand Slam.jpg in September 2024]]
On September 25, 2024 at Grand Slam, MVP made his surprise debut for All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he interrupted Prince Nana's interview about Swerve Strickland's condition and offered to take over for Nana as Strickland's manager, accusing Nana as the reason for Strickland's recent losses.{{Cite web |last=Everett |first=Max |date=2024-09-26 |title=MVP Makes AEW Debut On Dynamite: Grand Slam, Wants To 'Talk Business' With Top Star |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1673801/mvp-makes-aew-debut-dynamite-grand-slam-wants-talk-business-top-star/ |access-date=2024-09-26 |website=Wrestling Inc. |language=en-US}} The following week on AEW Dynamite
On January 15, 2025 at Maximum Carnage, MVP made his AEW in-ring debut, teaming with Benjamin and Lashley to defeat Mark Briscoe and Private Party (Isiah Kassidy and Marq Quen).{{Cite web |last=Elizabeth |first=Claire |date=2025-01-15 |title=AEW Dynamite Maximum Carnage results, live blog: World title clash |url=https://www.cagesideseats.com/aew/2025/1/15/24344421/aew-dynamite-maximum-carnage-results-live-blog-jan-15-2025-mox-hobbs-omega-womens-casino-gauntlet |access-date=2025-01-16 |website=Cageside Seats |language=en}} On the March 12 episode of Dynamite, MVP confronted MJF and offered him a spot in The Hurt Syndicate.{{Cite web |last=Black |first=Matt |date=2025-03-12 |title=AEW Dynamite Results: Review, Grades, Card For March 12 |url=https://www.wrestlezone.com/news/1548292-aew-dynamite-results-review-grades-card-for-march-12 |access-date=2025-03-13 |website=Wrestlezone |language=en-US}} On the March 26 episode of Dynamite, MJF initially accepted the offer, but would be turned away by Benjamin and Lashley.{{Cite web |last=Beaston |first=Erik |title=AEW Dynamite Results: Winners, Live Grades, Reaction and Highlights From March 26 |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/25175461-aew-dynamite-results-winners-live-grades-reaction-and-highlights-march-26 |access-date=2025-03-27 |website=bleacherreport.com |language=en}} On May 14 at Dynamite: Beach Break, Lashley, Benjamin, and MVP accepted MJF as a member of the group.{{Cite web |date=2025-05-14 |title=AEW Dynamite Beach Break live results: World title steel cage match |url=https://www.f4wonline.com/news/aew/aew-results/aew-dynamite-beach-break-live-results-world-title-steel-cage-match/ |access-date=2025-05-15 |website=F4W/WON |language=en-GB}}
Personal life
In August 2007, Assad was diagnosed with Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome, a rare condition that causes the heart to beat faster than normal. The condition was found in his time with WWE, when he had undergone a routine check-up in accordance with WWE's Talent Wellness Policy, which otherwise would have gone undetected until it was too late.{{cite web|url=http://sports.ign.com/articles/847/847749p1.html|title=MVP Interview — Chatting with the Baller about Tekken, Matt Hardy, and who needs Just for Men.|access-date=September 26, 2007|last=Barnwell|first=Bill|publisher=IGN|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080129094302/http://sports.ign.com/articles/847/847749p1.html|archive-date=January 29, 2008}}
Assad has many tattoos through his life, including a portrait of Malcolm X on the upper left portion of his chest, the sarcophagus of King Tut & the pyramids on his left upper biceps, the word MonteCristo with the phrase "the best revenge is living well" in script on his right forearm, both references to the book The Count of Monte Cristo, the Eye of Horus on the back of his left arm, and a star on his right shoulder. He also has a number of homemade gang-related tattoos that he had done when he was a teenager.
Assad enjoys playing video games and took inspiration for the finishing move he used on the independent circuit, a spin kick called Malicious Intent, from a similar move performed by Tekken character Eddy Gordo. He has been a fan of English football team Manchester United FC since age 13, citing Eric Cantona as his favorite player.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50VpzCw7EI0| archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211117/50VpzCw7EI0| archive-date=November 17, 2021 | url-status=live|title=Daily Mirror interview| date=January 20, 2009|access-date=June 19, 2009|publisher=Daily Mirror}}{{cbignore}} He became a Muslim during his time in prison, but is now an atheist.
Assad practices Brazilian jiu-jitsu, in which he gained the rank of purple belt after winning the gold medal at the Houston Open in the Masters 3 Ultra Heavyweight Division. He also won gold in the Open Division at the Houston Open, and silver at the IBJJF Masters World Championship in the Masters 4/Male/Purple/Ultra-Heavy Category.{{cite web| date=October 2019| url=https://www.ibjjfdb.com/ChampionshipResults/1221/PublicResults| title=International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation}} In December 2020, he won a gold medal at the IBJJF masters world championship in the Masters 4/Male/Purple/Ultra-Heavy Category, and was promoted to brown belt at the medal presentation.{{cite news |title=MVP gana el Campeonato Mundial de Jiu-Jitsu Brasileño |url=https://solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com/new/94889-mvp-gana-el-campeonato-mundial-de-jiujitsu-brasileno |access-date=December 24, 2020 |work=solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com |date=December 24, 2020 |language=es}}{{cite web |title=The 305 MVP on Instagram: "These pics were from the IBJJF Masters Worlds. I didn't have a chance to post them before I lost my phone. I won a gold medal in the ultra…" |url=https://www.instagram.com/p/CJ9nhkvD2Gn/ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/iarchive/s/instagram/CJ9nhkvD2Gn |archive-date=December 26, 2021 |url-access=registration|website=Instagram |access-date=February 17, 2021 |language=en}}{{cbignore}} He continues to train in the sport, with fellow wrestler Dave Bautista.{{cite web | url=https://jitsmagazine.com/wwe-superstars-batista-and-mvp-spotted-training-bjj/ | title=WWE Superstars Batista and MVP Spotted Training BJJ | date=October 27, 2022 }} In April 2024, he was awarded his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu by Andre Santos at Gracie Barra Boca Raton.{{cite web |last1=Blackett |first1=Todd |title=WWE Superstar MVP Promoted To BJJ Black Belt |url=https://jitsmagazine.com/wwe-superstar-mvp-promoted-to-bjj-black-belt/ |website=Jitsmagazine |date=May 2, 2024 |access-date=2 May 2024}}
Other media
Assad made a cameo appearance in the film MacGruber, alongside fellow WWE Superstars Chris Jericho, The Great Khali, Big Show, Kane, and Mark Henry.{{Citation|title=MacGruber (2010)|url=http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1470023/fullcredits|access-date=February 7, 2019}}
MVP released his first hip hop song titled "Holla to da World" featuring Dwayne Swayze in June 2011.{{cite web|url=http://www.411mania.com/wrestling/news/188997|title=Various News: MVP Debuts Hip Hop Song, Jesse Ventura Appearance|last=Csonka|first=Larry|date=June 6, 2011|access-date=August 3, 2011|work=411Mania}} A music video for the song, featuring cameos from Carlito and Hernandez, was released the following October.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_53891.shtml|title=Video – MVP's first music video, who made cameos?|date=October 3, 2011|access-date=October 4, 2011|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} The song was released as a single through iTunes on April 5, 2012.{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/quicknews/article_60047.shtml|title=MVP's first single released|last=Caldwell|first=James|date=April 5, 2012|access-date=April 5, 2012|work=Pro Wrestling Torch}} On March 18, 2013, he released his second song entitled "Tokyo".{{cite web|url=http://www.411mania.com/wrestling/news/277395|title=WWE News: Canada House Show Dates, MVP Releasing New Rap Track|last=Thomas|first=Jeremy|date=March 18, 2013|access-date=March 19, 2013|work=411Mania}} On January 30, 2014, MVP released his third single, titled "Return of the Ronin".{{cite web|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/return-of-the-ronin-single/id811537951|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140723200217/https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/return-of-the-ronin-single/id811537951|url-status=dead|archive-date=July 23, 2014|title=Return of the Ronin – Single|date=January 30, 2014|access-date=February 1, 2014|publisher=iTunes}} The song also became MVP's entrance theme in TNA.{{cite tweet|user=The305MVP|author=MVP|number=429516741333368833|date=February 1, 2014|title="Return Of The Ronin" – By MVP TNA theme song available here-->}}
MVP has been featured as a playable character in the video games WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2008, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2009, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010, WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2011, and WWE 2K22, his first WWE licensed video game in 11 years. He also appeared in WWE 2K23 and WWE 2K24.{{cite web|url=https://www.giantbomb.com/montel-vontavious-porter/3005-588/|title=Montel Vontavious Porter|work=Giant Bomb|access-date=February 2, 2019}}
=Filmography=
| class="wikitable sortable" style="float: centre; margin-centre: 0; margin-centre: 1em;"
!Year !Title !Role |
| 2010
|Vernon Freedom |
Championships and accomplishments
File:PorterDuoChamp.jpg (right shoulder) and one half of the WWE Tag Team Champion (left shoulder) in 2007]]
- All Pro Wrestling
- APW Universal Heavyweight Championship (1 time){{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net//?id=5&nr=49|title=APW Universal Heavyweight Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}}
- The Baltimore Sun
- Most Improved Wrestler of the Year (2007){{cite web|last=Eck|first=Kevin|title=2007 Awards|url=https://www.baltimoresun.com/bs-mtblog-2007-12-2007_awards-story.html|work=The Baltimore Sun|date=December 30, 2007|access-date=September 25, 2020|archive-date=October 26, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201026135318/https://www.baltimoresun.com/bs-mtblog-2007-12-2007_awards-story.html|url-status=dead}}
- Big League Wrestling
- BLW World Heavyweight Championship (1 time){{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net//?id=5&nr=3551|title=BLW World Heavyweight Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}}
- BLW Title Rumble Match (2018)
- CBS Sports
- Comeback Wrestler of the Year (2020){{cite web|last=Brookhouse|first=Brent|title=2020 CBS Sports Wrestling Awards: Drew McIntyre stands out as Wrestler of the Year|url=https://www.cbssports.com/wwe/news/2020-cbs-sports-wrestling-awards-drew-mcintyre-stands-out-as-wrestler-of-the-year/|work=CBSSports.com|date=January 2, 2021|access-date=January 2, 2021}}
- Coastal Championship Wrestling
- CCW Heavyweight Championship (1 time){{cite web|url=http://www.ccw.ms/HTM/results-082005.htm|title=August 20, 2005 – Coral Springs Gymnasium – "Independence Bash"|date=August 20, 2005|access-date=November 15, 2007|publisher=Coastal Championship Wrestling|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090416021409/http://ccw.ms/HTM/results-082005.htm|archive-date=April 16, 2009}}
- DDT Pro-Wrestling
- Ironman Heavymetalweight Championship (1 time){{cite web|url=http://www.wrestling-titles.com/japan/ddt/ironman-hm.html|title=Ironman Heavymetalweight Title|access-date=August 29, 2016|publisher=Wrestling-Titles.com}}
- Future of Wrestling
- FOW Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Punisher{{cite web|url=http://www.thefow.com/htm/titlehistory.htm|title=FOW Tag Team Championship history|access-date=November 15, 2007|publisher=Future of Wrestling}}
- Imperial Wrestling Revolution
- IWR Heavyweight Championship (1 time){{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net//?id=5&nr=2811|title=WCR Heavyweight Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}}
- IWR Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with D Money, Marce Lewis, Montego Seeka and Nytronis A'Teo{{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net//?id=5&nr=2812|title=WCR Tag Team Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}}
- New Japan Pro-Wrestling
- IWGP Intercontinental Championship (1 time, inaugural)
- IWGP Intercontinental Championship Tournament (2011)
- Pro Wrestling Illustrated
- Comeback of the Year (2020){{cite journal|year=2021|journal=Pro Wrestling Illustrated|title=2020 Achievement Awards|publisher=Kappa Publishing Group|pages=18–19}}
- Ranked No. 23 of the best 500 singles wrestlers in the PWI 500 in 2008{{cite web|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2008|url=http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2008.html|access-date=February 4, 2015|work=Pro Wrestling Illustrated|publisher=Internet Wrestling Database}}
- Southern Championship Wrestling Florida
- SCW Florida Heavyweight Championship (1 time){{Cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net//?id=5&nr=865|title=SCW Florida Heavyweight Championship « Titles Database « CAGEMATCH – The Internet Wrestling Database|website=www.cagematch.net|access-date=February 7, 2019}}
- World Class Revolution
- WCR Heavyweight Championship (3 times){{cite tweet|number=1173043194570924034|user=IMPACTWRESTLING|title=We told you anything can happen on @IMPACTPlusApp! @The305MVP is the new @WorldClassRev Champion! 30-DAY FREE TRI… |date=September 14, 2019}}
- World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE
- WWE United States Championship (2 times){{Cite web|title=Home|url=https://www.wwe.com/|access-date=February 27, 2021|website=WWE|language=en}}
- WWE Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Matt Hardy{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/wwetag/1871854111|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120921173547/http://www.wwe.com/classics/titlehistory/wwetag/1871854111|url-status=dead|title=MVP and Matt Hardy's first WWE Tag Team Championship reign|date=August 31, 2007|archive-date=September 21, 2012|access-date=February 18, 2009|publisher=World Wrestling Entertainment}}
- Slammy Award (1 time)
- Trash Talker of the Year (2020) {{small|as The Hurt Business, shared with Lacey Evans}}{{Cite web|title=2020 SLAMMY Award winners announced|url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/wwe-slammy-awards/article/2020-slammy-award-winners|access-date=December 23, 2020|website=WWE|language=en}}
- Wrestling Observer Newsletter
- Most Improved (2007){{cite journal|last=Meltzer|first=Dave|author-link=Dave Meltzer|date=January 30, 2012|title=Jan 30 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Gigantic year-end awards issue, best and worst in all categories plus UFC on FX 1, death of Savannah Jack, ratings, tons and tons of news|journal=Wrestling Observer Newsletter|location=Campbell, California|issn=1083-9593}}
- Most Underrated (2008)
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
{{Commons category|Montel Vontavious Porter}}
- {{Official website|http://www.the305mvp.com/|name=The 305 MVP}}
- {{IMDb name|name = Antonio Banks}}
- {{WWE superstar}}
- {{Professional wrestling profiles}}
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