Vinny Pacifico looks to follow wrestling greats into acting stardom

HOLLYWOOD (KABC) -- Vinny Pacifico is hoping to follow in the footsteps of Dwayne Johnson, John Cena and Dave Bautista - professional wrestlers who have successfully transitioned into acting - as he sets his sights on expanding his own career in front of the camera.

"Doors have been opening that I have never imagined being opened," Pacifico said.

Pacifico, who began his professional wrestling career at 16, is now 27 and looking to take on new challenges after competing around the world. While wrestling remains a central part of his life, he is increasingly focused on acting opportunities.

"I've been loving getting in by the camera, whether it's wrestling or whether it is playing extended versions of myself or just playing another character. I've been loving it so much," Pacifico said.

He said recent roles have helped strengthen his momentum in the entertainment industry.

"I'm very blessed to say that I've gotten some pretty good roles recently," Pacifico said. "And it's just been an amazing journey and I'm very grateful for every opportunity in front of the camera."

His latest project is the wrestling horror film, "Mr. Reset and the Society of Turnbuckle & Bone," which is available on platforms including YouTube, Google Play and Apple TV.

Pacifico said he has additional roles lined up, including four films scheduled to begin shooting in July. He believes hard work and training will continue to open doors.

Now married, Pacifico said his journey has been shaped in part by overcoming bullying as a child.

"There was tons of bullying growing up. I got laughed at a lot for being a wrestling fan, for liking 'Star Wars,' for liking super heroes," he said.

Despite those challenges, he said he remained focused on his goals.

"I always say, like, chase your dream. Believe in yourself. Bet on yourself. And that's my road I've taken, is betting on myself and believing that I can do anything I put my mind to and it's safe to say I think I've proved a lot of bullies wrong because a lot of them have reached out to me and apologized. And now we're friends," Pacifico said.

He also credits an early encounter with Cena for shaping his mindset. At age 14, Pacifico met the wrestler at a fan event and asked for advice.

"He said, 'Make sure you stay safe and take care of your body,'" Pacifico recalled.

Beyond his career ambitions, Pacifico said he strives to promote positivity each day.

"I want to be able to spread positivity. That's one of my biggest things in this world," he said. "Kindness is free. So I just always try and go the extra mile and spread kindness however I can because it just-why not?"

Pacifico said he has about 10 film projects in various stages of production and plans to continue wrestling while pursuing those opportunities.