View source for Fred Rosser

{{short description|American professional wrestler}}
{{redirect|Darren Young|other people}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2013}}
{{Infobox professional wrestler
|name        = Fred Rosser
|image       = Darren Young WrestleMania 32 Axxess.jpg
|caption     = Rosser in 2016
|names       = Darren Young<ref name="OWOW"/><br>'''Fred Rosser'''<ref name="OWOW"/><br>Fred Sampson<ref name="OWOW"/><br>Fred Sanford<ref name="OWOW"/><br>Frederick of Hollywood<ref name="Cage">{{cite web|url=http://www.cagematch.de/?id=2&nr=2040|title=Cagematch profile|access-date=March 4, 2010|work=Cagematch}}</ref><br>Officer Sampson<ref name=Cage/>
<!-- Please don't change the height or weight. These are the measures as officially stated and they should not be changed. -->
|height      = {{height|ft=6|in=1}}<ref name="wwe"/>
|weight      = {{convert|239|lb|kg|abbr=on}}<ref name="wwe">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/superstars/darrenyoung|title=Darren Young Bio|access-date=December 28, 2011|publisher=[[WWE]]}}</ref>
|birth_name  = Frederick Douglas Rosser III
|alma_mater  = [[Fairleigh Dickinson University]]
|birth_date  = {{Birth date and age|198<!-- Not 1979, per https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y_WY7CKrfFo (at 36:20) -->3|11|2}}<ref>{{cite web|last=Powell|first=Jason|url=http://www.prowrestling.net/article.php?WWE-Raw-in-Greenville-S.C.-correspondents-needed-Dot-Net-Audio-Raw-dark-main-events-Ariane-Cameron-Andrew-Dawn-Marie-Queen-Sharmell-Darren-Young-Larry-Cameron-Ryan-Nemeth-33915|title=WWE Raw in Greenville, S.C. (correspondents needed), Dot Net Audio, Raw dark main events, Ariane "Cameron" Andrew, Dawn Marie, Queen Sharmell, Darren Young, Larry Cameron, Ryan Nemeth|date=November 4, 2013|access-date=July 23, 2017|website=ProWrestling.net}}</ref>
|birth_place = [[Union Township, Union County, New Jersey|Union Township, New Jersey]], [[United States|U.S.]]<ref name="OWOW"/>
|billed      = [[Miami]], [[Florida]]<ref name="wwe"/>
|trainer     = Kevin Knight<ref name="OWOW"/><br>[[Florida Championship Wrestling]]<ref name="OWOW"/>
|debut       = September 11, 2002<ref name="PWI">"The 18th Annual PWI 500." [[Pro Wrestling Illustrated]] Oct. 2008: 112+.</ref><ref>{{Citation|title=Lio Rush was the man Friday! {{!}} STRONG backstage| date=July 3, 2021 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T1TopHpb8mc|language=en|access-date=2021-07-04}}</ref>
|retired     =
}}
'''Frederick Douglas Rosser III''' (born November 2, 1983) is an American [[Professional wrestling|professional wrestler]] and [[Professional wrestling trainer|trainer]]. He is signed to [[New Japan Pro-Wrestling]] (NJPW), where primarily performs on the [[NJPW Strong|Strong]] brand. He is also a trainer at the NJPW Academy and a former [[Strong Openweight Championship|Strong Openweight Champion]]. He is best known for his time with [[WWE]] under the [[ring name]] '''Darren Young'''.

Prior to signing with WWE, Rosser competed in Northeastern and Mid-Atlantic independent promotions including [[Chaotic Wrestling]], [[East Coast Wrestling Association]], Independent Wrestling Federation and the [[National Wrestling Alliance]]. Rosser signed with WWE's [[Farm team#Professional wrestling|developmental territory]] [[Florida Championship Wrestling]] in 2009 and participated in the first season of ''[[WWE NXT (TV series)|NXT]]'' in 2010. Later that year, he debuted on the main roster as part of [[The Nexus (professional wrestling)|The Nexus]]. In 2012, Young formed [[The Prime Time Players]] with [[Titus O'Neil]], with whom he is a one-time [[WWE Raw Tag Team Championship|WWE Tag Team Champion]]. Rosser was the first openly gay wrestler to compete in WWE.

== Early life ==
Rosser was born in [[Union Township, Union County, New Jersey|Union]] and was interested in becoming a professional wrestler as a teenager, wrestling in several [[backyard wrestling]] federations. He attended [[Union High School (New Jersey)|Union High School]] in [[New Jersey]], where he played [[American football]], both offensively and defensively.<ref name="Varsallone-pg1">{{cite web |url=http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/04/26/1599309/young-believes-hes-nxt.html |title=Young believes he's NXT |date=April 26, 2010 |last=Varsallone |first=Jim |access-date=July 23, 2010 |work=[[The Miami Herald]] |page=1 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20100723174257/http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/04/26/1599309/young-believes-hes-nxt.html |archive-date=July 23, 2010 |url-status=dead |df=mdy }}</ref> He attended [[Fairleigh Dickinson University]], where he played football for a year before deciding to focus on his academic studies and professional wrestling.<ref name="Varsallone-pg1"/>

== Professional wrestling career ==

=== Training and independent circuit (2002–2004) ===
Rosser became interested in becoming a professional wrestler as a teenager, wrestling in several [[backyard wrestling]] federations. He researched a number of wrestling schools before deciding on Camp IWF in [[West Paterson, New Jersey|West Paterson]], New Jersey. This was due in part to his employer, whose uncle was a friend of a local wrestler training there at the time, and helped him enroll in the wrestling school.<ref name="ECWAInterview">{{cite web|url=http://www.ecwaprowrestling.com/main/superspotlight/ss-frederickhollywood-12-2006.html|title=Superstar Spotlight on Frederick of Hollywood|author=Martin, Josh|date=December 2006|publisher=ECWAProWrestling.com|access-date=September 10, 2008|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304063250/http://www.ecwaprowrestling.com/main/superspotlight/ss-frederickhollywood-12-2006.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Rosser made his professional debut on September 11, 2002, and spent several years on the independent circuit, including wrestling for the Independent Wrestling Federation and [[Chaotic Wrestling]] during his early career.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chaoticwrestling.com/profiles/sampson.htm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080229115536/http://www.chaoticwrestling.com/profiles/sampson.htm |archive-date=February 29, 2008 |title=Fred "Bonecrusher" Sampson |work=[[Chaotic Wrestling]] |access-date=February 17, 2023}}</ref> On May 17, 2003, he won his first major title when he defeated the IWF Heavyweight Champion in Woodland Park, New Jersey and held it for over half a year until losing to Roman on January 17, 2004. It was at a house show in Chaotic Wrestling that he was first noticed by promoter Jim Kettner and invited to compete for the [[East Coast Wrestling Association]] where he made his debut in the summer of 2004.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.ecwaprowrestling.com/main/bios/frederick_of_hollywood.html |title=Frederick of Hollywood |year=2008 |work=ECWA Current Roster Biographies & Photo Gallery |publisher=ECWAProWrestling.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081220014546/http://www.ecwaprowrestling.com/main/bios/frederick_of_hollywood.html |archive-date=December 20, 2008 |df=mdy }}</ref> Shortly after entering the promotion, Rosser began feuding with [[Prince Nana]] over the [[ECWA Mid Atlantic Championship]] and eventually defeated him for the title<ref name="ECWAInterview"/> in [[Newark, Delaware|Newark]], [[Delaware]] on September 18, 2004. He lost the title to Nick Malakai less than two months later.

=== World Wrestling Entertainment/WWE (2005–2017) ===

==== Early appearances and Florida Championship Wrestling (2005–2010) ====
During 2005 and 2006, Rosser made several appearances for World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) on its weekly programs ''[[WWE Heat|Sunday Night Heat]]'' and ''[[WWE Velocity|Velocity]]'' as well as in [[dark match]]es on ''[[WWE SmackDown|SmackDown]]'' and ''[[WWE Raw|Raw]]''.<ref name="Combat-Hooligans">{{cite web|url=http://combat-hooligans.com/2007/12/05/iwf-wrestling-school-begins-9th-year-this-weekend/ |title=IWF Wrestling School Begins 9th Year this Weekend |date=December 5, 2007 |publisher=Combat-Hooligans.com |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080501203451/http://combat-hooligans.com/2007/12/05/iwf-wrestling-school-begins-9th-year-this-weekend/ |archive-date=May 1, 2008 }}</ref><ref name="WrestleView">{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/news2006/1198785373.shtml|title=New episode of Pro Wrestling Ohio TV, 'CHIKARA' update + IWF events|last=Martin|first=Adam|date=December 27, 2007|publisher=WrestleView.com}}</ref> In May 2009, Rosser signed a WWE developmental contract and was sent to WWE's [[Farm team#Professional wrestling|developmental territory]], [[Florida Championship Wrestling]], under the name '''Darren Young'''.<ref name="OWOW">{{cite web|url=http://www.onlineworldofwrestling.com/profiles/d/darren-young.html|title=Darren Young|access-date=April 27, 2010|publisher=Online World of Wrestling}}</ref><ref name="Varsallone-pg2">{{cite web |url=http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/04/26/1599309_p2/young-believes-hes-nxt.html |title=Young believes he's NXT |date=April 26, 2010 |last=Varsallone |first=Jim |access-date=July 23, 2010 |work=[[The Miami Herald]] |page=2 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20100723174732/http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/04/26/1599309_p2/young-believes-hes-nxt.html |archive-date=July 23, 2010 |url-status=dead |df=mdy }}</ref> In FCW, Young was in a tag team called "The South Beach Party Boys" with [[Percy Watson]].

==== The Nexus (2010–2011) ====
{{Main|The Nexus (professional wrestling)}}
On February 16, 2010, it was announced that he would compete as part of the first season of ''[[WWE NXT]]'', mentored by [[CM Punk]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_39115.shtml|title=WWE News: Complete cast of the NXT show revealed including The Miz mentoring Bryan Danielson|date=February 16, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date= February 17, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref>

On February 23, 2010, Young made his debut on ''NXT'' with a character described as a "South Beach Party Boy", losing his debut match to [[David Otunga]]. His storyline had mentor CM Punk showing apathy towards him, claiming he had no idea why he's in ''NXT'' and did not want to train Young unless he accepted his Straight-edge lifestyle.<ref name=NXT022310>{{cite web|url=http://www.411mania.com/wrestling/tv_reports/130807/411%5C%5Cs-WWE-NXT-Report-2.23.10.htm|title=411's WWE NXT Report 2.23.10|last=Bauer|first=Michael|date=February 23, 2010|access-date=March 4, 2010|publisher=411Mania}}</ref> Despite this, Punk and his disciples, [[Doc Gallows|Luke Gallows]] and [[Serena Deeb|Serena]], helped Young win his rematch against Otunga the following week.<ref name=Torch03022010>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/TV_Reports_9/article_39503.shtml|title=Keller's WWE NXT Report 3/2: Competition explained, Cornfed Meathead debuts, Punk, Hardy, Regal, Jericho, Miz appear with Rookies|date=March 2, 2010|last=Keller|first=Wade|access-date=March 4, 2010|work=PWTorch}}</ref> Young was ranked eight in the first Pros' Poll. After the pros' poll, Young decided to join [[Straight Edge Society]] in an attempt to improve, only to change his mind before getting his hair shaved off. CM Punk decided to forgive him for standing up to him when he defeated Luke Gallows with Young's own hair on the line. Because of this victory, CM Punk had then been interested in Young's potential, but in turn started feuding with a jealous Luke Gallows. On May 11 in the second Pros poll, Young was ranked fifth out of the six remaining contestants and narrowly escaped elimination.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1273674387|title=WWE NXT Results – 5/11/10|date=May 12, 2010|last=Tedesco|first=Mike|access-date=May 12, 2010|work=WrestleView|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100514105649/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1273674387|archive-date=May 14, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref> The following week, however, Young was eliminated from the competition.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_41412.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE NXT TV Report 5/18: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of NXT on Syfy Week 13|date=May 18, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=May 19, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref>

[[File:The Nexus at SummerSlam 2010.jpg|308x308px|thumb|right|Young (far right) with the other members of [[The Nexus (professional wrestling)|The Nexus]] at [[SummerSlam (2010)|SummerSlam]]]]
The week following the Season 1 finale, Young, along with the other season one ''NXT'' rookies turned [[Heel (professional wrestling)|heel]] and interfered in the main event match on ''Raw'' between [[John Cena]] and Young's former Pro, CM Punk, and attacked both wrestlers, the announce team and the [[ring announcer]] [[Justin Roberts]], and dismantled the ring area and surrounding equipment.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/06/08/14303706.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630142709/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/06/08/14303706.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 30, 2012|title=Raw: Vote early, vote often; NXT takes over|date=June 8, 2010|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=June 12, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> On the June 14, 2010, edition of ''Raw,'' the rookies attacked general manager [[Bret Hart]], when he refused to give them contracts.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1276572395 |title=Raw Results – 6/14/10 |date=June 14, 2010 |last=Stephens |first=David |access-date=June 22, 2010 |publisher=WrestleView |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100719070731/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1276572395 |archive-date=July 19, 2010 |df=mdy }}</ref> The following week on ''Raw,'' [[Vince McMahon]] fired Hart and announced that a new general manager had been hired, one that had signed all seven season one NXT rookies to contracts.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_42106.shtml|title=WWE Raw results 6/21: Keller's report on the fallout from the Fatal 4-Way PPV event, Jericho puts his career on the line|date=June 21, 2010|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|access-date=June 22, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> The following week, the group was named [[The Nexus (professional wrestling)|The Nexus]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_42230.shtml|title=WWE Raw results 6/28: Keller's ongoing report on NXT-McMahon attack fallout, Sheamus-Cena confrontation|date=June 28, 2010|last=Keller|first=Wade|author-link=Wade Keller|access-date=June 29, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> On the July 5 episode of ''Raw'', The Nexus tried to attack John Cena as he confronted [[Wade Barrett]] during their "truce" with one another. The segment ended with The Nexus leaving without Young, when other Raw wrestlers arrived to aid Cena, and Young was assaulted by Cena to end the show. Due to Cena's actions, the new general manager booked Cena in a 7 on 1 handicap match against The Nexus scheduled for the following week.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1278386787|title=Raw Results – 7/5/10|date=July 5, 2010|last=Stephens|first=David|access-date=July 6, 2010|publisher=WrestleView|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100708191644/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1278386787|archive-date=July 8, 2010|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Young did not participate due to injuries caused by Cena the previous week but The Nexus won the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1278991411|title=Raw Results – 7/12/10|date=July 12, 2010|last=Martin|first=Adam|access-date=July 14, 2010|publisher=WrestleView|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100716164916/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1278991411|archive-date=July 16, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref> He returned at [[Money in the Bank (2010)|Money in the Bank]] with the rest of The Nexus, sporting a new haircut and costing Cena the [[WWE Championship]] against [[Sheamus]]. After the match, Cena attacked Young and fellow Nexus teammate, [[Michael Tarver]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1279507940 |title=Money in the Bank PPV Results – 7/18/10 |date=July 18, 2010 |last=Martin |first=Adam |access-date=July 21, 2010 |publisher=WrestleView |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100722064759/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1279507940 |archive-date=July 22, 2010 |df=mdy }}</ref> The Nexus continued to feud with Cena and the Raw roster, resulting in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Elimination Tag Team match|seven-on-seven elimination tag team match]] at [[SummerSlam (2010)|SummerSlam]]. Young was the first person to be eliminated from the match, when he submitted to [[Bryan Danielson|Daniel Bryan]] in under a minute, and The Nexus lost the match.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/08/15/15031141.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630095657/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/PPVReports/2010/08/15/15031141.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 30, 2012|title=Rumored return helps Team WWE fend off Nexus at SummerSlam|date=August 15, 2010|last=Plummer|first=Dale|author2=Tylwalk, Nick|access-date=August 16, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> On the next episode of ''Raw'' the members of The Nexus fought in individual matches against members of the victorious Team WWE with the stipulation that losing a match would have them exiled from the group. Young chose to face John Cena, but failed to win and was exiled and attacked as a result.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1282015348 |title=Raw Results – 8/16/10 |date=August 16, 2010 |last=Stephens |first=David |access-date=August 18, 2010 |publisher=WrestleView |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100819043444/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1282015348 |archive-date=August 19, 2010 |df=mdy }}</ref>

Young returned on the September 6 episode of ''Raw'', distracting Barrett and costing him a match against [[Randy Orton]] thus turned Young [[Face (professional wrestling)|face]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/09/06/15263156.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630054732/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/09/06/15263156.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=June 30, 2012|title=Raw: Edge, Jericho fight to keep PPV spots|date=September 6, 2010|last=Plummer|first=Dale|access-date=September 7, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> On the October 4 episode of ''Raw'', Young participated in a [[Battle royal (professional wrestling)|battle royal]] to determine the number one contender to the WWE Championship, but was eliminated by The Nexus.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_44265.shtml|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 10/4: Complete "virtual time" coverage of Raw with Hell in a Cell fall-out – John Cena joins Nexus|date=October 4, 2010|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=October 5, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Young had his first singles match since leaving The Nexus on the October 7 episode of ''[[WWE Superstars|Superstars]]'', losing to [[William Regal]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/10/08/15624106.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120719162338/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/10/08/15624106.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 19, 2012|title=Superstars: Former tag team champions splitting up?|date=October 8, 2010|last=Johnson|first=Matt|access-date=October 8, 2010|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> Young had his first win in singles competition on the October 14 airing of ''Superstars'' defeating [[Primo Colón|Primo]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/10/15/15698241.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714230848/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2010/10/15/15698241.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|title=Superstars: Divas, former Nexus member highlight show|date=October 15, 2010|last=Johnson|first=Matt|access-date=February 18, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> Young teamed up with Tatsu in a losing effort against [[The Usos]] in mid November on two occasions. Young got his first victory of 2011 when he teamed with [[Primo Colón|Primo]], [[Yoshi Tatsu]] and [[Davey Boy Smith Jr.|David Hart Smith]] to defeat [[Matt Cardona|Zack Ryder]], William Regal and The Usos on the January 13 episode of ''Superstars''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/01/14/16883761.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718120102/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/01/14/16883761.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 18, 2012|title=Superstars: All your favorites meet in 8-man tag action|date=January 14, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=February 18, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref>

==== Return to NXT (2011–2012) ====
In March 2011, Young was selected as one of six former ''NXT'' contestants to return to the show in its fifth season, ''[[WWE NXT (TV series)#NXT Redemption (season 5)|NXT Redemption]]{{Broken anchor|date=2024-06-24|bot=User:Cewbot/log/20201008/configuration|target_link=WWE NXT (TV series)#NXT Redemption (season 5)|reason= The anchor (NXT Redemption (season 5)) [[Special:Diff/919232909|has been deleted]].}}''. During this season, Young was mentored by [[Chavo Guerrero Jr.]] In the season premiere, Young defeated Jacob Novak and won the first challenge to earn himself "redemption points".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/03/09/17546731.html |url-status=usurped |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120630121749/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/03/09/17546731.html |archive-date=June 30, 2012 |title=WWE NXT: Redemption beings for 6 former rookies |work=SLAM! Wrestling|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]] |last=Bishop |first=Matt |date=March 9, 2011 |access-date=March 9, 2011}}</ref> On the April 12 episode of ''NXT'', Young attacked [[Titus O'Neil]] after their match and tried to attack O'Neil's pro Hornswoggle, but was stopped by Guerrero.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/04/13/17975401.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120719041118/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/04/13/17975401.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 19, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Show revolves around Maryse|date=April 13, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=December 28, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> He turned heel, when he attacked [[Hornswoggle]], and later he and Guerrero faced O'Neil and different tag team partners on several occasions. On the April 19 edition of Redemption, Young faced Hornswoggle in single match. During their match, Chavo Guerrero gave Young a blindfold but in the end Hornswoggle won after a Tadpole splash. On the May 3 edition of Redemption, Young lost to his Pro, Chavo Guerrero, with Hornswoggle as a special guest referee. On the May 10 edition of Redemption, Hornswoggle didn't appear on NXT and accused by Hornswoggle Rookie's Titus O'Neil. The following week, it was revealed Chavo Guerrero kidnapped Hornswoggle and hid Hornswoggle in the box. Then, Guerrero and Young was attack Hornswoggle in the ring until O'Neil made a save. The feud was settled when Titus O'Neil and Darren Young faced each other in a No Disqualitication Match on the May 24 episode of NXT Redemption. The match ended with Titus O'Neil a victor after Hornswoggle interfered in a match which O'Neil attack Guerrero and Young. Guerrero was later released from WWE, leaving Young on his own. In August he formed an alliance with [[Ethan Carter III|Derrick Bateman]] and the duo teamed up against O'Neil and ''NXT'' host [[Matt Striker]], but were defeated.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/03/18504436.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715114735/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/03/18504436.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 15, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Striker back in ring following 4 year absence|date=August 3, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=December 28, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> Young then moved into a feud with Striker, defeating him on two consecutive occasions.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/10/18533821.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120718034234/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/10/18533821.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 18, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Kidd continues to shine|date=August 10, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=December 28, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/17/18565176.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120716135556/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/17/18565176.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 16, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Bateman gains a girlfriend|date=August 17, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=December 28, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> After Young attacked Striker following a handshake, William Regal intervened, saving Striker.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/24/18595176.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120715020527/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/08/24/18595176.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 15, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Kidd is show's shining star|date=August 24, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=December 28, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> Two weeks later, Young was defeated by Regal in a singles match. Young then formed an alliance with [[JTG]] and defeated Striker and O'Neil. After the match they were attacked by the Usos.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/09/14/18684876.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120714233441/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/09/14/18684876.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 14, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Regal, Striker want piece of JTG, Young|date=September 14, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=December 28, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref>

Young was suspended for 30 days on October 5, 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_54005.shtml|title=WWE News: Wellness Policy violation announced – NXT Rookie suspended for 30 days|date=October 6, 2011|last=Caldwell|first=James|access-date=December 28, 2011|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> Following his suspension, Young returned on the November 16, 2011, episode of ''NXT'' and assaulted Titus O'Neil.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/11/17/18980366.html|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120720083814/http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Wrestling/2011/11/17/18980366.html|url-status=usurped|archive-date=July 20, 2012|title=WWE NXT: Curtis creating a rift between BetaMax|date=November 17, 2011|last=Bishop|first=Matt|access-date=December 28, 2011|work=Slam! Sports|publisher=[[Canadian Online Explorer]]}}</ref> Young was then able to get the better of O'Neil twice in tag team matches.<ref name=GutCheck>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=James's WWE NXT Report 11/23: Percy & Titus vs. Reks & D-Young main event, BetaMaxCurtis love triangle continues, Usos reference heritage|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_55466.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 9, 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Walek|first=Gregory|title=NXT Results – 12/7/11|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1323461887|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=April 9, 2012}}</ref> The conclusion to Young's feud with O'Neil came when O'Neil defeated Young in a no disqualifications match.<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=James's WWE NXT Report 1/18 – Week 46: Wedding interrupted, Titus turns heel, Elvis, out-of-control, destructive, and unproductive Cole commentary|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_57127.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 9, 2012}}</ref>

==== The Prime Time Players (2012–2014) ====
{{Main|The Prime Time Players}}
[[File:Prime Time Players in Minehead.jpg|left|thumb|upright|[[The Prime Time Players]] in November 2013]]
[[File:Darren Young April 2012.jpg|thumb|274x274px|Young in April 2012]]
O'Neil then turned heel and formed an alliance with Young. Young and O'Neil feuded with Percy Watson and [[Alex Riley]] in February 2012, defeating them twice.<ref>{{cite web|last=Walek|first=Gregory|title=Wrestleview.com – NXT Results – 2/1/12|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1328376231|publisher=Wrestleview|access-date=March 22, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120207113952/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1328376231|archive-date=February 7, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Walek |first=Gregory |title=Wrestleview.com – NXT Results – 2/29/12 |url=http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1330614237 |publisher=Wrestleview |access-date=March 22, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120303155308/http://www.wrestleview.com/viewnews.php?id=1330614237 |archive-date=March 3, 2012 |df=mdy }}</ref> In March, while he and O'Neil were feuding with the Usos, Young started chasing the affections of [[Tamina Snuka|Tamina]].<ref>{{cite web|last=James|first=Justin|title=James's WWE NXT Report 3/28 – Week 56: Kidnapping angle continues, very long backstage segment delivers, Uso main event|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwenxtreport/article_59659.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=April 9, 2012}}</ref>

On the April 18 episode of ''NXT'', Young and O'Neil were signed by [[John Laurinaitis]] to the ''SmackDown'' brand.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/titus-oneil-shows-darren-young-a-contract-from-john-laurinaitis-wwe-nxt-april-18-26016063 |title=Titus O'Neil shows Darren Young a contract from John Laurinaitis: WWE NXT – April 18, 2012 (1:00) |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120423195025/http://www.wwe.com/videos/titus-oneil-shows-darren-young-a-contract-from-john-laurinaitis-wwe-nxt-april-18-26016063 |archive-date=April 23, 2012 |df=mdy }}</ref> The team made their debut for the brand on the April 20 episode of ''SmackDown'' with a victory over the Usos. The team suffered their first team loss against the [[WWE Raw Tag Team Championship|WWE Tag Team Champions]] [[Kofi Kingston]] and [[Ron Killings|R-Truth]] on the May 18 edition of Smackdown.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/the-usos-vs-titus-oneil-darren-young-smackdown-april-20-2012-26016496 |title=The Usos vs. Titus O'Neil & Darren Young: SmackDown – April 20, 2012 (1:43) |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120423020625/http://www.wwe.com/videos/the-usos-vs-titus-oneil-darren-young-smackdown-april-20-2012-26016496 |archive-date=April 23, 2012 |df=mdy }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2012-04-20/results/page-4|title=Smackdown Results |author=Michael Burdick |date=April 20, 2012 |publisher=WWE |access-date=April 21, 2012}}</ref> At the [[No Way Out (2012)|No Way Out]] pay-per-view in June, minutes before Young and O'Neil teamed up to defeat [[Justin Gabriel]] and [[Tyson Kidd]], [[Primo & Epico]] and the Usos in a four-way #1 tag team match to earn a future shot at the WWE Tag Team Championship, after [[Abraham Washington|A.W.]] turned on his clients, Epico and Primo.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/nowayout/2012/fatal-4-way-tag-team-match|title=No Way Out – Fatal-4-Way tag team match results |author=Kara A. Medalis |date=June 17, 2012 |publisher=WWE |access-date=June 22, 2012}}</ref> On the July 16 episode of ''Raw'', Young and O'Neil unsuccessfully challenged Kofi Kingston and R-Truth for the WWE Tag Team Championship.<ref>{{cite web|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 7/16: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw #998 – MITB PPV fall-out, Cena's announcement|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_63388.shtml}}</ref> On the August 10 episode of ''SmackDown'', they defeated Primo and Epico in a #1 contenders match via disqualification when A.W. provoked Kingston and R-Truth, who were on commentary, into interfering in the match.<ref name="SmackDown081012">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/smackdown/2012-08-10/results-26043157/page-6|title=SmackDown Results: Del Rio ambushed Sheamus, taking the law into his own hands|date=August 10, 2012|last=Burdick|first=Michael|access-date=August 14, 2012|work=[[WWE]]}}</ref> That same day, A. W. was released from his contract.<ref name="AWreleased">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/wwe-superstar-aw-release-26044431|title=A. W. released from WWE|date=August 10, 2012|access-date=August 14, 2012|work=[[WWE]]|archive-date=August 12, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120812224125/http://www.wwe.com/inside/wwe-superstar-aw-release-26044431|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Prime Time Players received their title shots at [[SummerSlam (2012)|SummerSlam]], but were again defeated by Kingston and R-Truth.<ref name="SummerSlam2012">{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/summerslam/2012/r-truth-kofi-kingston-prime-time-players-26044639|title=WWE Tag Team Champions Kofi Kingston & R-Truth def. The Prime Time Players|date=August 19, 2012|access-date=August 21, 2012|work=[[WWE]]}}</ref> On the September 7 edition of ''Smackdown'', Prime Time Players defeated Primo and Epico and The Usos in a triple threat tag team match to earn another shot at the title.<ref>{{cite web|title=Parks' WWE Smackdown Report 9/7: Ongoing coverage of Friday night show, including Rey Mysterio & Sin Cara vs. Cody Rhodes & The Miz|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_64973.shtml}}</ref> But on ''Raw'' three days later, Prime Time Players lost their title shot to the team of Daniel Bryan and [[Kane (wrestler)|Kane]] (soon to be known as [[Team Hell No]]).<ref>{{cite web|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 9/10: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – Hart back in Montreal, final PPV hype|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_65047.shtml}}</ref> At the [[Survivor Series (2012)|Survivor Series]] pay-per-view, Young took part in a [[Elimination tag team match|10 man elimination tag team match]], but was eliminated by [[Rey Mysterio]].<ref>{{cite web|last=Caldwell|first=James|title=Caldwell's WWE Survivor Series PPV Report 11/18: Complete "virtual time" coverage of live PPV – Punk-Cena-Ryback|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_66714.shtml|work=Pro Wrestling Torch|access-date=November 19, 2012}}</ref> Young also competed in the [[2013 Royal Rumble]] entering at entrant 15, but was quickly eliminated by Kofi Kingston. On the August 19, 2013, edition of ''Raw'', the Prime Time Players turned face in a winning effort against the Real Americans ([[Jack Swagger]] and [[Antonio Cesaro]]). 
[[File:Prime time players.jpg|thumb|Young and [[Titus O'Neil]] signing autographs in December 2013]]
The face turn had been speculated about for some months, especially after Young's [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#Legit|real-life]] [[coming out]] the previous week which received [[mainstream media]] coverage.<ref>{{cite web|last=Killam |first=Mike |url=http://www.wrestlezone.com/news/277001-prime-time-players-wrestle-as-babyfaces-on-raw-video-of-their-match-against-real-americans |title=Prime Time Players Wrestle as Babyfaces on Raw; Video of Their Match Against Real Americans |date=August 20, 2013 |publisher=WrestleZone.com |access-date=August 21, 2013}}</ref> The team gained a push, challenging for the WWE Tag Team Championship, but lost a match to [[The Shield (professional wrestling)|the Shield]]. The duo also sided with other face wrestlers from the active roster, only to get punished by COO [[Triple H]] for preventing Daniel Bryan from being critically injured by Randy Orton. The Prime Time Players were amongst the select few ordered to battle The Shield in separately sanctioned 3 on 1 handicap matches on the September 20 edition of ''SmackDown'', as punishment for their intervention.

==== Singles competition (2014–2015) ====
On the January 31, 2014, episode of ''SmackDown'' after Young was pinned in a tag team match against RybAxel ([[Ryback]] and [[Curtis Axel]]), O'Neil attacked him and disbanded the team. On ''SmackDown'' the following week, Young attacked O'Neil backstage after his interview.<ref>{{cite web|title=Parks's WWE Smackdown Report 1/31: Ongoing "virtual time" coverage of Friday show, including The Shield vs. Daniel Bryan & Sheamus & Rey Mysterio|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwesmackdownreport/article_76063.shtml#.Uu2Bx_l_tps}}</ref> Young picked up a victory over [[Damien Sandow]] on the February 14 edition of ''SmackDown'' before being attacked by O'Neil, which turned into a brawl and left O'Neil in tattered clothes. They fought at the [[Elimination Chamber (2014)|Elimination Chamber]], with the victor being O'Neil. However, Young defeated O'Neil in a rematch on ''[[WWE Main Event|Main Event]]''. At [[WrestleMania XXX]], Young was in the [[André the Giant]] [[Professional wrestling battle royal|Memorial Battle Royal]], where he was eliminated by 3MB. At a WWE live event on April 12, Young was injured in a match against [[Fandango (wrestler)|Fandango]], and on April 16, he underwent surgery to repair a torn ACL in his left knee that would take him out of action for four to six months.

[[File:Darren Young April 2014.jpg|thumb|right|Darren Young at WWE's WrestleMania XXX Axxess on April 4, 2014.]]

==== The Prime Time Players reunion (2015–2016) ====
[[File:The Prime Time Player April 2015.jpg|right|thumb|The Prime Time Players in April 2015]]
On the January 5, 2015, episode of ''Raw'', Young appeared with the rest of the WWE roster in the opening segment. His official return came on the February 16 episode of ''Raw'', where Young and an unnamed independent wrestler, [[Karrion Kross|Kevin Kross]], were scheduled to face [[The Ascension (professional wrestling)|The Ascension]], but were attacked by them before the match, leading to Young's former tag team partner Titus O'Neil making the save.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wwerawreport/article_83362.shtml#.VOKywPmsUv4|title=Caldwell's WWE Raw Results 2/16: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of live Raw – Fast Lane final hype, Cena opens Raw, Bryan and Reigns singles matches, Dusty Rhodes, more|author=Caldwell, James|date=February 16, 2015|access-date=February 16, 2015|website=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref> This turned O'Neil face again and the Prime Time Players reunited. On the February 23 edition of ''Raw'', The Prime Time Players defeated The Ascension to hand them their first loss as part of the main roster, only to then being attacked by the two. Young participated in the 2nd Annual André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at [[WrestleMania 31]], where he was eliminated by Ryback.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Clapp|first1=John|title=2nd Annual André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal|url=http://www.wwe.com/shows/wrestlemania/31/andre-the-giant-memorial-battle-royal-27139785|publisher=WWE|access-date=24 February 2015}}</ref>
[[File:Darren Young in March 2015.jpg|left|thumb|306x306px|Young in March 2015]]
At [[Elimination Chamber (2015)|Elimination Chamber]], The Prime Time Players participated in the first ever tag team [[Elimination Chamber|Elimination Chamber match]] for the WWE Tag Team Championship, where they were the last team to be eliminated by [[The New Day (wrestling)|The New Day]] ([[Big E Langston|Big E]], Kofi Kingston and [[Xavier Woods]]).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_85340.shtml#.VWut7s9Viko|title=Caldwelll's WWE E. Chamber PPV Report 5/31: Ongoing "virtual-time" coverage of WWE Title match, Cena vs. Owens, two Elimination Chamber matches, more|author=Caldwell, James|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=31 May 2015|access-date=31 May 2015}}</ref> At [[Money in the Bank (2015)|Money in the Bank]], the Prime Time Players defeated The New Day to win the title.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/wweppvs/article_85628.shtml#.VX6R6PlViko|title=Caldwell's WWE MITB PPV Results 6/14: Complete "virtual-time" coverage of Dusty Rhodes 10 bell salute, WWE Title match, MITB match, Cena vs. Owens II, more|author=Caldwell, James|website=Pro Wrestling Torch|date=June 14, 2015|access-date=June 15, 2015}}</ref> At [[Battleground (2015)|Battleground]], The Prime Time Players retained the title against The New Day but [[Glossary of professional wrestling terms#Drop|dropped]] the title back to The New Day on August 23 at [[SummerSlam (2015)|SummerSlam]] in a [[Professional wrestling match types#Basic non-elimination matches|fatal–four-way match]], also involving [[The Lucha Dragons]] and [[Primo & Epico|Los Matadores]]. Young and O'Neil would invoke their rematch clause for the September 14 episode of ''Raw'', which they lost.

Towards the end of 2015, O'Neil and Young began focusing on singles careers. Young teamed with Damien Sandow on the [[Royal Rumble (2016)|Royal Rumble 2016 Kickoff Show]] in a Fatal 4-Way tag team match in a losing effort. On the February 2, 2016, taping of ''Main Event'', the duo returned to team with The Usos to defeat the Ascension, [[Cody Rhodes|Stardust]] and [[Tyler Breeze]].<ref>{{Cite web|title = NoDQ.com > WWE > WWE Main Event Spoilers – February 5th, 2016|url = http://nodq.com/wwe/456472393.shtml|website = nodq.com|access-date = 2016-02-03|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160204092919/http://nodq.com/wwe/456472393.shtml|archive-date = February 4, 2016|url-status = dead|df = mdy-all}}</ref> They have since quietly disbanded when O'Neil received a 60-day suspension after the February 8 episode of ''Raw'' after an alleged physical altercation with Vince McMahon. At [[WrestleMania 32]], Young entered the third André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal and came within the final three, being eliminated by Kane.

==== Bob Backlund's protégé and departure (2016–2017) ====
On the May 5 episode of ''SmackDown'', [[Bob Backlund]] agreed to be Young's life coach, in a campaign to "Make Darren Young Great Again", a parody of [[Donald Trump]]'s "[[Make America Great Again]]" campaign slogan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://prowrestling.net/site/2016/05/05/55-barnetts-wwe-smackdown-live-review-aj-styles-karl-anderson-and-luke-gallows-vs-roman-reigns-and-the-usos-sami-zayn-on-chris-jerichos-highlight-reel/|title=5/5 Barnett's WWE Smackdown TV Review: AJ Styles, Karl Anderson, and Luke Gallows vs. Roman Reigns and The Usos, Sami Zayn on Chris Jericho's Highlight Reel – Pro Wrestling Dot Net|date=May 6, 2016|access-date=August 5, 2016}}</ref> Throughout the next couple of months on ''Raw'' and ''SmackDown'', various vignettes featuring Young and Backlund aired, with Backlund assuming the role of Young's [[Lifestyle guru|life coach]]. In a "life lesson" segment on the July 4 episode of ''Raw'', Backlund approved of Young adopting his famous [[Professional wrestling holds#Crossface chickenwing|Crossface chickenwing]].<ref name="Raw07042016">{{cite web|title=7/4 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live TV Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/04/rawjuly4results/|website=PWTorch.com|date=July 5, 2016|access-date=5 July 2016}}</ref> The week after on ''Raw'', Young won an 18-man battle royal (after [[Apollo Crews]] and [[Baron Corbin]] eliminated themselves) to become the #1 contender for [[The Miz]]'s [[WWE Intercontinental Championship|Intercontinental Championship]] at [[Battleground (2016)|Battleground]]. The following week on ''Raw'', Young defeated [[Alberto Del Rio]], despite interference from The Miz. On July 19, Young with Backlund was drafted to the Raw brand as a result of the [[2016 WWE draft]]. At Battleground, Young faced The Miz in a match that resulted in a Double Disqualifaction after he applied the Crossface Chickenwing to Miz outside the ring to protect Backlund from Miz and [[Maryse Ouellet|Maryse]].<ref>{{cite web|title=7/24 WWE Battleground Results – Caldwell's Complete Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/07/24/jcbattlegroundppvreport/|website=PWTorch.com|date=July 25, 2016|access-date=25 July 2016}}</ref>

Young began a feud with his former tag team partner Titus O'Neil on the August 1 episode of ''Raw''. O'Neil questioned Young's motives on being "great again". Later that night, he defeated Young when he pinned him while grabbing Young's tights. Afterwards, he got into a backstage altercation with Backlund before Young came to the defense of Backlund by attacking O'Neil.<ref>{{cite web|title=8/1 WWE Raw Results – Caldwell's Complete Live TV Report|url=http://www.pwtorch.com/site/2016/08/01/aug1rawresultsfinal/|website=PWTorch.com|date=August 2, 2016|access-date=7 August 2016}}</ref> The week after on ''Raw'', Young defeated O'Neil by pinning him while grabbing O'Neil's tights, mimicking the way O'Neil defeated him.<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE Raw Results – 8/8/16 (Live results from Anaheim, Foley invites Bryan to Raw, Lesnar/Orton hype)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/65488-wwe-raw-results-8816-live-results-anaheim-foley-invites-bryan-raw-lesnarorton-hype/|website=WrestleView|date=August 8, 2016|access-date=17 August 2016}}</ref> On the August 15 episode of ''Raw'', Young and O'Neil seemingly reconciled and were placed in a match against [[Primo and Epico|The Shining Stars]]. During the match, O'Neil attacked Young with a ''Clash of the Titus'', allowing The Shining Stars to win the match.<ref>{{cite web|title=WWE Raw Results – 8/15/16 (Live results from Corpus Christi, Brock Lesnar to appear, SummerSlam hype)|url=http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-wrestling-results/wwe-raw-results/65763-wwe-raw-results-81516-live-results-corpus-christi-brock-lesnar-appear-summerslam-hype/|website=WrestleView|date=August 15, 2016|access-date=17 August 2016}}</ref> Young would once again defeat O'Neil on the August 29 episode of ''Raw''. After the match, he was attacked by O'Neil.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Benigno |first1=Anthony |title=Darren Young def. Titus O'Neil |url=https://www.wwe.com/shows/raw/2016-08-29/article/darren-young-def-titus-oneil |website=WWE.com |access-date=29 August 2016}}</ref> Young teamed with [[Neville (wrestler)|Neville]] to defeat O'Neil and [[Curtis Axel]] on the September 16 episode of ''[[WWE Superstars|Superstars]]'' to culminate the feud.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Engstrom |first1=Anders |title=WWE Superstars Recap: Braun Strowman, Curtis Axel & Titus O'Neil Vs. Neville & Darren Young |url=http://www.wrestlinginc.com/wi/news/2016/0916/617581/wwe-superstars-recap/ |website=WrestlingInc.com |date=September 16, 2016 |access-date=16 September 2016}}</ref>

In January 2017, Young suffered an arm injury in a match against [[Epico Colón|Epico]] on ''Main Event''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/72143-darren-young-posts-photo-injury-arm-wwe-posts-slow-motion-footage-116-raw/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170201044746/http://www.wrestleview.com/wwe-news/72143-darren-young-posts-photo-injury-arm-wwe-posts-slow-motion-footage-116-raw/ |archive-date=February 1, 2017 |title=Darren Young posts photo of injury to his arm, WWE posts more slow motion footage from 1/16 RAW |work=WrestleView |last=Martin |first=Adam |date=January 21, 2017 |access-date=February 17, 2023}}</ref> On October 29, 2017, Young was released from his WWE contract without him reappearing on television.<ref>{{cite web|title=Emma, Darren Young and Summer Rae released|url=http://www.wwe.com/article/emma-darren-young-summer-rae-released?sf127969263=1|publisher=WWE|date=October 29, 2017|access-date=October 29, 2017}}</ref>

=== Chikara (2018) ===
On March 2, 2018, it was announced that Rosser, along with former Nexus co-members [[Michael Tarver]] and [[Justin Gabriel]] would be competing at that year's Chikara: [[King of Trios]] tournament.

=== New Japan Pro-Wrestling (2020–present) ===
On August 27, 2020, it was announced that Rosser had signed with [[New Japan Pro-Wrestling]] and would make his debut on the September 4 episode of ''[[NJPW Strong|Strong]]''.<ref>{{Cite web|last=NJPW|title=Major matches lined up For Fighting Spirit Unleashed on NJPW STRONG! 【NJoA】 {{!}} NEW JAPAN PRO-WRESTLING|url=https://www.njpw1972.com/79401|access-date=2020-08-28|website=NJPW|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Cal |first=Jay |date=2021-06-15 |title=Fred Rosser becomes Exclusive to NJPW of America |url=https://alliance-wrestling.com/fred-rosser-becomes-exclusive-to-njpw-of-america/ |access-date=2023-08-30 |website=Alliance Wrestling.com |language=en-US}}</ref> In his first match, Rosser teamed up with [[Alex Zayne]] to face The DKC and Clark Connors, which Rosser and Zayne won.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2020-09-05|title=9/4 NJPW Strong results: Anish V's review of Jay White vs. Flip Gordon, Karl Fredericks vs. Misterioso, Brody King vs. Hikuleo, Fred Rosser and Alex Zayne vs. Clark Connors and The DKC|url=https://prowrestling.net/site/2020/09/04/9-4-njpw-strong-results-anish-vs-review-of-jay-white-vs-flip-gordon-karl-fredericks-vs-misterioso-brody-king-vs-hikuleo-fred-rosser-and-alex-zayne-vs-clark-connors-and-the-dkc/|access-date=2020-09-06|website=Pro Wrestling Dot Net|language=en-US}}</ref> On October 24, Rosser faced Clark Connors in Connors' first match since winning the Lions Break Crown; Rosser won the match.<ref>{{Cite web|last=NJPW|title=2020.10.23 NEVER {{!}} NEW JAPAN PRO-WRESTLING|url=https://www.njpw1972.com/tornament/82494|access-date=2020-10-24|website=NJPW|language=en}}</ref> In June, it was announced Rosser signed a contract with NJPW and would become a trainer at the NJPW Academy.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://solowrestling.mundodeportivo.com/new/99063-njpw-contrata-de-manera-exclusiva-a-fred-rosser|title = NJPW contrata de manera exclusiva a Fred Rosser|date = June 15, 2021}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Fred Rosser's Profile |url=https://www.njpw1972.com/profile/257648 |website=NJPW}}</ref>

=== National Wrestling Alliance (2021–present) ===
On March 23, 2021, Rosser made his [[National Wrestling Alliance]] debut, defeating [[Marshe Rockett]] and [[Matt Cross (wrestler)|Matt Cross]] to become the Number One Contender for the [[NWA World Television Championship]]. He failed to defeat [[Da Pope]] who dropped the title to [[Tyrus (wrestler)|Tyrus]] in June 2021.

== Other media ==
Young appears in the video games ''[[WWE 2K14]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k14/wwe-2k14-full-roster-revealed|title='WWE 2K14' full roster revealed|publisher=[[WWE|WWE.com]]|access-date=June 21, 2019}}</ref> ''[[WWE 2K15]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k15/wwe-2k15-character-art-photos#fid-26839992|title=WWE 2K15 Character Art:photos|publisher=[[WWE|WWE.com]]|access-date=June 21, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.zap2it.com/blogs/wwes_darren_young_reveals_his_wwe_2k15_character_pic-2014-07|title=WWE's Darren Young reveals his 'WWE 2K15' character: Pic|date=July 11, 2014|last=Hayner|first=Chris|work=[[Zap2It]]|access-date=October 1, 2014|archive-date=October 6, 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006184039/http://www.zap2it.com/blogs/wwes_darren_young_reveals_his_wwe_2k15_character_pic-2014-07|url-status=dead}}</ref> ''[[WWE 2K16]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/inside/2k/wwe-2k16/wwe-2k16-roster-playable-characters-superstars-divas|title=Superstars and Divas featured on WWE 2K16 roster list|publisher=[[WWE|WWE.com]]|access-date=June 21, 2019}}</ref> ''[[WWE 2K17]]'',<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k17/article/wwe-2k17-roster-playable-characters-superstars|title=Superstars to be featured on WWE 2K17 roster|publisher=[[WWE|WWE.com]]|access-date=June 21, 2019}}</ref> and ''[[WWE 2K18]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wwe.com/section/wwe-2k18/article/wwe-2k18-roster-playable-character-list|title=WWE 2K18 roster: Meet the Superstars joining the list of playable characters|publisher=[[WWE|WWE.com]]|access-date=June 21, 2019}}</ref>

=== Filmography ===
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|-
! Year
! Title
! Role
! Notes
|-
| 2013
| ''[[Total Divas]]''
| Himself
|
|-
| 2013
| ''[[The Ellen DeGeneres Show]]''
| Himself
|
|}

== Personal life ==
Rosser has cited [[Shawn Michaels]] and [[Ricky Steamboat]] as his favorite wrestlers.<ref name="Varsallone-pg2"/>

In an interview released on August 15, 2013, he publicly came out as [[Homosexuality|gay]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Ranft |first=Shaun |date=2022-10-25 |title=Fred Rosser Reveals Reason He Came Out In TNA |url=https://www.wrestlinginc.com/1070180/fred-rosser-reveals-reason-he-came-out-in-wwe/ |access-date=2023-08-30 |website=Wrestling Inc. |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Hansford |first=Amelia |date=2023-01-07 |title=Ex-WWE star Fred Rosser reveals what Vince McMahon told him when he came out |url=https://www.thepinknews.com/2023/01/07/fred-rosser-darren-young-wwe-gay-coming-out-vince-mcmahon/ |access-date=2023-08-30 |website=PinkNews |language=en-US}}</ref> While [[Pat Patterson]], [[Chris Kanyon]], and [[Orlando Jordan]] ([[Bisexuality|bisexual]]) came out after either leaving the company or retiring, Rosser is the first professional wrestler ever to publicly [[Coming out|come out]] while still signed to WWE.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/10245118/WWE-wrestler-Darren-Young-comes-out-as-gay.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220112/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/10245118/WWE-wrestler-Darren-Young-comes-out-as-gay.html |archive-date=January 12, 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |title=WWE wrestler Darren Young comes out as gay |work=Telegraph |date=August 16, 2013 |access-date=August 25, 2013}}{{cbignore}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wwe.com/videos/playlists/darren-young-and-superstars-discuss-his-revelation-about-his-sexual-orientation|title=Darren Young and Superstars discuss his revelation about his sexual orientation|access-date=August 5, 2016}}</ref> WWE released a statement in support of Rosser for being open about his sexuality,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/wwe-releases-statement-on-darren-young-26140515 |title=WWE releases statement in support of Darren Young |publisher=WWE.com |date=August 15, 2013 |access-date=August 15, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130817060528/http://www.wwe.com/inside/wwe-releases-statement-on-darren-young-26140515 |archive-date=August 17, 2013 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> and various fellow wrestlers [[Tweet (Twitter)|tweeted]] their support for him.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.wwe.com/inside/superstars-tweet-support-for-darren-young-26140583 |title=WWE Superstars tweet support for Darren Young |publisher=WWE.com |date=July 1, 2013 |access-date=August 17, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130817234659/http://www.wwe.com/inside/superstars-tweet-support-for-darren-young-26140583 |archive-date=August 17, 2013 |df=mdy }}</ref>

On April 26, 2017, Rosser disclosed that his mother is a lesbian during his interview with Afterbuzz TV.<ref name="Afterbuzz">{{cite web |title=Darren Young Sits Down With X-Pac – AfterBuzz TV's X-Pac 12360 Ep. #34 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJ9jbFTek90  |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211215/cJ9jbFTek90 |archive-date=2021-12-15 |url-status=live|website=YouTube |date=Apr 26, 2017|access-date=28 August 2020}}{{cbignore}}</ref>

== Championships and accomplishments ==
* '''[[Chaotic Wrestling]]'''
** [[Chaotic Wrestling New England Championship]] ([[Chaotic Wrestling New England Championship#Title history|1 time]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestling-titles.com/us/newengland/chaotic/chaotic-ne-h.html|title=Chaotic Wrestling New England Heavyweight Title History|year=2003|publisher=Puroreso Dojo}}</ref>
** [[Chaotic Wrestling Tag Team Championship]] ([[Chaotic Wrestling Tag Team Championship#Title history|1 time]]) – with [[Rick Fuller]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.wrestling-titles.com/us/newengland/chaotic/chaotic-t.html|title=Chaotic Wrestling Tag Team Title History|year=2003|publisher=Puroreso Dojo}}</ref>
* '''[[East Coast Wrestling Association]]'''
** [[ECWA Heavyweight Championship]] ([[ECWA Heavyweight Championship#Title history|2 times]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.solie.org/titlehistories/whtecwa.html|title=ECWA Heavyweight Title History|last=Dupree|first=Jim|year=2008|publisher= Solie's Title Histories}}</ref>
** [[ECWA Mid Atlantic Championship]] ([[ECWA Mid Atlantic Championship#Title history|1 time]])<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.solie.org/titlehistories/matecwa.html|title=ECWA Mid-Atlantic Heavyweight Title History|last=Dupree|first=Jim|year=2008| publisher=Solie's Title Histories}}</ref>
* '''Independent Wrestling Federation'''
** IWF Heavyweight Championship (2 times)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.solie.org/titlehistories/htiwf.html|title=IWF Heavyweight Title History|last=Tsakiries|first=Phil|author2=Eric Roelfsema|year=2008|publisher=Solie's Title Histories}}</ref>
** Commissioner's Cup Tag Team Tournament (2003) – with Hadrian<ref name="IWF"/>
** Commissioner's Cup Tag Team Tournament (2004) – with Kevin Knight<ref name="IWF"/>
** Commissioner's Cup Tag Team Tournament (2006) – with Franciz<ref name="IWF"/>
** Tournament of Champions (2004)<ref name="IWF">{{cite web |url=http://campiwf.com/_wsn/page9.html |title=Rankings & Titles |year=2008 |work=IWF Title History & Wrestler Rankings |publisher=CampIWF.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080914131433/http://campiwf.com/_wsn/page9.html |archive-date=September 14, 2008 |df=mdy }}</ref>
* '''National Wrestling Superstars'''
** NWS Tag Team Championship (1 time) – with Bulldog Collare<ref name="OWOW"/>
*'''[[New Japan Pro-Wrestling]]'''
**[[Strong Openweight Championship]] ([[Strong Openweight Championship#Reigns|1 time]])<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.cagematch.net/?id=5&nr=4938|title=NJPW Strong Openweight Championship History}}</ref>
* '''''[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated]]'''''
** [[List of Pro Wrestling Illustrated awards#Feud of the Year|Feud of the Year]] (2010) {{small|[[The Nexus (professional wrestling)|The Nexus]] vs. WWE}}<ref name="PWI Awards">{{cite web|url=http://www.pwi-online.com/pages/PWIawards.html|title=PWI Awards|work=[[Pro Wrestling Illustrated]]|publisher=[[Kappa Publishing Group]]|access-date=July 23, 2017|archive-date=January 21, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160121172943/http://www.pwi-online.com/pages/PWIawards.html|url-status=dead}}</ref>
** [[List of Pro Wrestling Illustrated awards#Inspirational Wrestler of the Year|Inspirational Wrestler of the Year]] (2013)<ref name="PWI Awards"/>
** [[List of Pro Wrestling Illustrated awards#Most Hated Wrestler of the Year|Most Hated Wrestler of the Year]] (2010) {{small|As part of The Nexus}}<ref name="PWI Awards"/>
** Ranked No. 89 of the top 500 wrestlers in the [[Pro Wrestling Illustrated#PWI 500|PWI 500]] in 2013<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.profightdb.com/pwi-500/2013.html|title=Pro Wrestling Illustrated (PWI) 500 for 2013|access-date=August 22, 2013|work=The Internet Wrestling Database}}</ref>
* '''''[[Rolling Stone]]'''''
** Most Deserved Push (2015)<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/sports/features/wwe-wrestler-of-the-year-so-far-kevin-owens-20150701|title=WWE Wrestler of the Year (So Far)|access-date=July 1, 2015|publisher=Rolling Stone|date=July 2015}}</ref> {{small|As a member of [[The Prime Time Players]]}}
* '''[[WWE|World Wrestling Entertainment / WWE]]'''
** [[World Tag Team Championship (WWE)|WWE Tag Team Championship]] ([[List of World Tag Team Champions (WWE)|1 time]]) – with [[Titus O'Neil]]
** [[Slammy Award]] for Shocker of the Year ([[Slammy Award#2010 Slammy Awards|2010]]) {{small|The debut of The Nexus}}<ref name="2010Slammy">{{cite web|url=http://pwtorch.com/artman2/publish/WWE_News_3/article_46025.shtml|title=WWE News: Full list of 2010 Slammy Awards – 12 announced on Raw, 10 announced on WWE's website|date=December 13, 2010|access-date=December 19, 2010|publisher=Pro Wrestling Torch}}</ref>
* '''''[[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards|Wrestling Observer Newsletter]]'''''
** [[List of Wrestling Observer Newsletter awards#Worst Feud of the Year|Worst Feud of the Year]] (2016) <small>vs. [[Titus O'Neil]]</small><ref>{{cite journal | last = Meltzer | first = Dave | author-link = Dave Meltzer | date = March 6, 2017 | title = March 6, 2017 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2016 Awards issue, talent departing TNA, more | journal = [[Wrestling Observer Newsletter]] | location = [[Campbell, California]] | issn = 1083-9593 | page=24}}</ref>

== References ==
{{Reflist}}

== External links ==
{{Commons category|Frederick Rosser|Darren Young}}
* {{Twitter|realfredrosser}}
* {{WWE superstar|name = Darren Young}}
* {{IMDb name|name = Fred Rosser III}}
* {{Professional wrestling profiles}}

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}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Rosser, Fred}}
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