In the colorful world of professional wrestling, referees play a vital yet often underappreciated role in crafting the spectacle that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. Nick Shin, known as “The White Tiger Among Zebras,” has emerged as one of the most dynamic and skilled referees in the industry today. His journey from aspiring wrestler to senior official is as inspiring as it is unique.
From Wrestler to Referee: A Passion Found
Nick’s entry into wrestling began with an unexpected twist. “I had to train to be a referee before I was able to learn to wrestle,” he recalls. During his early days at the Independent Wrestling Federation (IWF) in Nutley, New Jersey, Nick fell in love with refereeing. The role allowed him to be in the ring for more than one match per event—a chance to make a lasting impact on every show.
Breaking Into the Business
Nick began his wrestling journey in 2015 under the old-school tutelage of the IWF. “We were taught psychology and the basics—knowing when and how to place them in a match without having to ‘call’ it,” he explains. This foundational knowledge helped Nick develop a deeper understanding of in-ring storytelling, which remains central to his refereeing philosophy.
The Challenges of Officiating
Refereeing is no walk in the park, especially in an industry filled with diverse styles and personalities. “The biggest challenge is working with different wrestlers based on how they were taught and trying to get everyone on the same page,” Nick shares. As a senior official, his role often involves understanding the desired outcome of matches and ensuring that both safety and storytelling are prioritized.
Preparation: A Mental and Emotional Game
Before every event, Nick gets into his zone by listening to “Ryde or Die” by the Ruff Ryders. “I recite all the verses to get into a mental state where I can’t be touched or denied,” he says. This ritual ensures he steps into the ring brimming with confidence, ready to uphold the high standards he sets for himself.
Handling High-Pressure Moments
Wrestling is unpredictable, and a referee must stay sharp. Nick relies on his extensive knowledge of wrestling psychology to navigate any unexpected situation. “I assess the problem, understand the context, and do whatever is necessary to get everyone to the safest and most reasonable response,” he explains.
Memorable Matches and Mentors
When asked about his most memorable match, Nick lights up. “It has to be 2 Cold Scorpio vs. Homicide. It was an uncalled match on the fly, and I got to work my style—reacting to whatever happened.” He credits these veterans, whom he grew up admiring, with shaping his approach to refereeing and the wrestling business as a whole.
Balancing Impartiality and Storytelling
Nick views impartiality and storytelling as two sides of the same coin. “If I don’t balance the two, I’m not doing my job right,” he states. By using psychology, he ensures the fans feel the intended emotions, seamlessly blending into the narrative while maintaining his authority.
The Skills of a Great Referee
What makes a top-notch referee? For Nick, it’s a mix of authority under pressure, technical knowledge, and preparation for emergencies. His certifications in CPR, AED, and concussion awareness have come into play more than once, underscoring his commitment to wrestler safety.
When the Unexpected Happens
Nick recounts an intense situation during a women’s match where tempers flared, and the match spiraled off script. “I had to call a quick finish to prevent it from turning into a full-on brawl,” he reveals. Moments like these highlight the importance of a referee’s quick thinking and decisive action.
Advice for Aspiring Referees
For those dreaming of a career in wrestling officiating, Nick’s advice is clear: “Find a school and train—not just as a referee, but to understand wrestling as a whole. Learn psychology, how to work with people, and even how to do the things wrestlers do.” Nick Shin’s journey from the training mats of New Jersey to refereeing legends like 2 Cold Scorpio and Homicide is a testament to the passion and dedication required to succeed in professional wrestling. As the “White Tiger Among Zebras,” Nick continues to raise the bar, one match at a time. Tune into Fab 94.5 The Hitz for more exclusive stories from the world of wrestling!
