The chronicles of substance abuse in wrestling have haunted just about every generation of the sport. However, while many wrestlers have only gone in a different life direction out of necessity, and far too many either never got clean or succumbed to their vices, Sting’s path to longevity began when he started making changes in the prime of his career.

“I stopped doing steroids in 1990,” he told The Ringer. “A lot of the guys just couldn’t stop. They’ve all got new knees, new hips, shoulders reversed. I [still have] the same original body parts, thank God.”

In addition to other long-term health effects, steroids have made a lot of wrestlers too bulky. This isn’t sustainable for the long haul, as it takes a toll on the body, leading to joint problems and other mobility issues Sting alluded to. After witnessing these changes happen to some of his friends and peers, Sting took note, changed his ways, and lo and behold, he is wrestling in 2024.

“I was addicted to painkillers and drinking and steroids and drugs and a lifestyle for so many years,” he added in the piece with The Ringer. “The human body can only take so much. A lot of the guys, especially in my era, they couldn’t stop. I was on my way to being one of them, so I attribute the longevity to cleaning out the drugs and the alcohol, the overall lifestyle. Everything got cleaned up.” That pivot was vital for Sting, but there has also been a guiding light that he believes has made more of a difference in his life and career than any other.

If you or anyone you know needs help with addiction issues, help is available. Visit the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration website or contact SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).