In recent years, Plainview, New York -- a suburban community on Long Island -- has emerged as a noteworthy locale in the world of professional wrestling, primarily through the achievements of one of its most prominent natives: Maxwell Jacob Friedman. MJF attended Plainview-Old Bethpage John F. Kennedy High School, where he was a member of the football team. His early exposure to performance came at the age of five when he appeared on The Rosie O'Donnell Show, singing "You Are My Sunshine" in an operatic style. This moment foreshadowed his future in the spotlight, blending charisma with performance.
MJF's rise in professional wrestling has been marked by significant accomplishments. He is a one-time AEW World Champion, holding the title for a record-setting reign, and a one-time AEW International Champion. His accolades extend to multiple championships across other wrestling promotions, including MLW, CZW and ROH. Notably, he won AEW's Dynamite Diamond Ring consecutively from 2019 to 2024, and his 2022 promo against CM Punk earned him the "Promo of the Year" award from the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. MJF has credited some of his early career ascent to WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page.
In recognition of his professional achievements and charitable efforts, MJF was honored by the Town of Oyster Bay in 2023. On April 3rd of that year, he was awarded the Key to the Town, and the day itself was proclaimed "Maxwell Jacob Friedman Day." This accolade acknowledged his contributions to combating antisemitism and his role as a prominent figure in professional wrestling. Beyond the ring, MJF's talents have expanded into acting. He is set to appear in the upcoming films Happy Gilmore 2 and The Floaters, following an appearance in the award-winning film The Iron Claw.
In 1996, the Universal Superstars Of America (USA) promotion was documented as hosting a live event in Plainview, which featured King Kong Bundy, Greg "The Hammer" Valentine, and Typhoon (Tugboat) on the card.
Adding to Plainview's wrestling legacy is Michael Rodgers, a band instructor at Plainview JFK High School. Rodgers has been seen as part of an AEW broadcast conducting an orchestra fronted by MJF.
Researched by Darren Paltrowitz on June 4, 2025. Updated on June 14, 2025 and June 21, 2025.