Matthew Jason Bloom, born in Peabody, Massachusetts, in 1972, transitioned from a career as a mathematics and English teacher to a professional wrestler. After training with Killer Kowalski, he established a presence in international circuits and major American organizations, eventually pivoting into a developmental coaching role at the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida.
Athletic Beginnings and Transition
Before his involvement in professional wrestling, Bloom attended Peabody Veterans Memorial High School. His athletic background included football, basketball, track and field, and baseball. He later attended the University of Pittsburgh, where he played as an offensive tackle and guard. Graduating in 1996 with a degree in sign language, Bloom initially worked as a schoolteacher at Revere High School. His interest in wrestling developed during this period, leading him to leave education to train under Killer Kowalski and Dory Funk Jr.
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Bloom made his debut in 1997. After gaining experience in various promotions, he was hired by the World Wrestling Federation. He refined his craft in the Power Pro Wrestling developmental territory in Memphis, Tennessee, under the moniker Baldo. During this tenure, he engaged in a high-profile feud with Jerry Lawler and secured the inaugural PPW Heavyweight Championship.
WWE Career and Personas
Debuting on WWF television in April 1999, Bloom initially appeared as Prince Albert. He later formed a tag team with Test known as T & A, managed by Trish Stratus, which competed throughout 2000. Over his career, he operated under several ring names, including Albert, A-Train, Lord Tensai, and Tensai. His tenure in the WWE spanned 1999 to 2004, and later from 2012 to 2014, during which time he claimed the WWF Intercontinental Championship.
International Tenure in Japan
Between 2005 and 2012, Bloom performed extensively in Japan. Competing under the name Giant Bernard, he worked for major promotions including All Japan Pro Wrestling, New Japan Pro-Wrestling, and Pro Wrestling Noah. During his time abroad, his championship successes included the IWGP Tag Team Championship and the GHC Tag Team Championship.
Fast facts
- Born: November 14, 1972
- Birthplace: Peabody, Massachusetts
- Education: University of Pittsburgh
- Former Occupation: Teacher
- WWE Ring Names: Prince Albert, Albert, A-Train, Tensai
- Japan Ring Name: Giant Bernard
- Current Role: Head trainer at WWE Performance Center
Questions readers ask
What subjects did Matt Bloom teach?
He taught mathematics and English to deaf children and students with behavioral problems.
Which championships did he win during his career?
His titles include the GHC Tag Team Championship, IWGP Tag Team Championship, and WWF Intercontinental Championship.
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