Gregory Helms
51 years old
Who is Gregory Helms?
Gregory Helms is a veteran American professional wrestler and producer best known for his iconic WWE persona “The Hurricane.” Before his WWE fame, he wrestled in World Championship Wrestling (WCW) under the name “Sugar Shane Helms” and gained popularity through his high-flying style and charisma.
Over his decades-long career, Helms has captured numerous championships including the WWE Cruiserweight Championship, WWE World Tag Team Championship, and the WCW Hardcore Championship. Today, he continues to be a respected figure in the world of professional wrestling.
Early Life and Education
Gregory Shane Helms was born on July 12, 1974, in Smithfield, North Carolina, USA. Raised in North Carolina, Helms developed an early passion for wrestling and began training as a teenager.
He attended East Wake High School, where he balanced academics with a growing interest in athletics and wrestling. However, little is known publicly about his parents or siblings, as Helms has kept most of his personal background private.
Wrestling Career
Early Beginnings
Helms began his wrestling journey at just 17 years old, participating in independent circuits where he quickly made a name for himself. His agility, mic skills, and technical prowess helped him stand out in the competitive wrestling world.
WCW Era: Sugar Shane Helms
In the late 1990s, he joined World Championship Wrestling (WCW). Wrestling under the name “Sugar Shane Helms,” he formed a memorable tag team called 3 Count with Shannon Moore and Evan Karagias — a boy band-style faction.
Helms found championship success in WCW, winning both the Cruiserweight Championship and the Hardcore Championship.
WWE Success: The Hurricane
In 2001, after WCW was acquired by WWE (then WWF), Helms signed with the promotion and adopted his superhero alter ego, The Hurricane. His comedic timing, green costume, and catchphrases made him a fan favorite.
During his WWE run, he captured:
- WWE Cruiserweight Championship
- World Tag Team Championship (with Rosey)
- European Championship
He later dropped the superhero persona and competed under his real name, eventually becoming the longest-reigning Cruiserweight Champion in WWE history.
Later Career and Independent Circuit
After his full-time WWE stint, Helms wrestled in multiple independent promotions including:
- TNA Impact Wrestling
- OMEGA Championship Wrestling
- Pro Wrestling Guerrilla (PWG)
- Ring of Honor (ROH)
He also made surprise appearances in WWE Royal Rumble matches in recent years, most notably in 2018, where he was eliminated by John Cena.
Personal Life and Relationships
Relationship History
Gregory Helms has had a notable relationship journey. He was previously married to April Below, though they later separated without making their reasons public.
From 2004 to 2009, he was in a relationship with fellow professional wrestler Jamie Szantyr, best known by her WWE ring name Velvet Sky.
After his breakup with Jamie, Helms began dating Karen, with whom he developed a strong and lasting bond. The couple got engaged in 2013, and they currently live together in North Carolina.
Family Life
Gregory Helms and his fiancée Karen have two sons:
- Sebastian Helms
- Braxton Helms
Helms often shares his love for his children on social media and appears to enjoy a peaceful and fulfilling family life.
FAQ About Gregory Helms
1. What is Gregory Helms best known for?
He is best known for his WWE persona “The Hurricane”, a comedic superhero character that became iconic in early 2000s wrestling.
2. What championships has he won?
Helms has held multiple titles including the WWE Cruiserweight Championship, World Tag Team Championship, European Championship, and WCW Hardcore Championship.
3. Who is Gregory Helms engaged to?
He is engaged to Karen, his long-time partner since the early 2010s.
4. Does Gregory Helms have children?
Yes, he has two sons: Sebastian and Braxton.
5. Was he in a relationship with Velvet Sky?
Yes, he dated Jamie Szantyr (Velvet Sky) from 2004 to 2009.
6. Where does Gregory Helms live now?
He currently resides in North Carolina, USA, with his fiancée and children.
7. Is he still active in wrestling?
Yes, although he is not a full-time performer, Helms remains involved in wrestling as a producer, coach, and occasional in-ring talent.
