Carlito has accepted his role as a respected elder in WWE.
In 2004, Carlito burst onto WWE television during an era of transition that would see the promotion shift from its focus on names like Stone Cold Steve Austin and The Rock to John Cena, Batista, and Randy Orton. Carlito won numerous championships in WWE before his release in 2010, and upon his return in 2023, he has seamlessly integrated into the roster as a seasoned veteran with extensive experience.
Speaking with Fightful's Joel Pearl in an interview recorded before WrestleMania 41, Carlito said he has accepted that his time has passed and that the roster today views him as an elder. Carlito says that even if he hadn't accepted it, it would have happened anyway, and you can't hold on to your youth forever.
"Yeah, the kids call me an elder statesman these days. That’s a role I’ve accepted. I had my run. I had a good little time. I had my youth, it was great, and it’s time to move on. You can’t hold on to those old days forever. I’ve gladly accepted it. My body has also let me know, whether I accept it or not, it’s happening."
Learn more about Carlito's thoughts on his role in Judgment Day here.
Check out the full interview embedded above.
