In a wrestling world often dominated by brute force and high-flying spectacle, Prince Nana stands as a regal reminder that charisma, strategy, and storytelling still reign supreme. From his early days in Ring of Honor to his current role as the flamboyant manager of Swerve Strickland in AEW, Nana’s journey is one of resilience, reinvention, and royal flair.
🌍 Origins of a Prince
Born Nana Osei Bandoh in Brooklyn, New York, Prince Nana claims royal lineage from the Ashanti tribe in Ghana — a heritage he’s woven into his wrestling persona with pride and theatrical brilliance. At age three, his family moved to Ghana, returning years later so Nana could pursue education in the U.S. Inspired by WrestleMania VIII, he began training under Johnny Rodz after working as a photographer at Gleason’s Gym.
His in-ring debut came in 1996, wrestling Big Vito in a church in Spanish Harlem. But it wasn’t long before Nana realized his true calling wasn’t just inside the ropes — it was orchestrating chaos from ringside.
🏰 The Embassy Era
In 2004, Nana founded The Embassy, a heel stable in Ring of Honor built on the storyline premise that he used Ghanaian tax money to hire mercenaries. It was a masterclass in character work — blending satire, swagger, and strategy. Under his guidance, talents like Jimmy Rave, Alex Shelley, Abyss, and Tommaso Ciampa thrived.
The Embassy became a revolving door of rising stars and cult favorites, with Nana always at the helm, delivering promos that were equal parts hilarious and menacing. Whether managing ROH Pure Champions or orchestrating Trios Tournament wins, Nana’s fingerprints were all over ROH’s golden era.
đź’Ľ AEW Ascension: Mogul Moves
Fast forward to 2022 — Nana returned to ROH and AEW by purchasing Tully Blanchard Enterprises, reforming The Embassy with Brian Cage, Bishop Kaun, and Toa Liona. But the real magic happened in 2023 when he merged forces with Swerve Strickland’s Mogul Affiliates to form the Mogul Embassy.
This pairing was electric. Nana’s viral dance during Swerve’s entrance became a fan-favorite moment, spawning memes, GIFs, and a wave of appreciation across social media. His ringside antics added levity and flair to Swerve’s ruthless persona — a perfect contrast that elevated both men.
In April 2024, Nana managed Swerve to his AEW World Championship win over Samoa Joe, marking the first time an Embassy client captured a singles world title. Even after Mogul Embassy dissolved, Nana remained loyal to Swerve, managing him through high-profile defenses against Christian Cage and Will Ospreay.
đź•ş Appreciation for the Prince
What makes Prince Nana special isn’t just his longevity — it’s his adaptability. He’s a throwback to the golden age of managers like Bobby Heenan and Jimmy Hart, but with a modern twist. His comedic timing, cultural pride, and ability to enhance talent without overshadowing them make him one of AEW’s most valuable non-wrestlers.
Fans have rallied behind him, forming unofficial appreciation societies and calling for dance-offs with Daniel Garcia. He’s proof that in wrestling, personality can be just as powerful as a piledriver.
🏆 Legacy in the Making
From indie shows in Delaware to Wembley Stadium, Prince Nana’s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and pure entertainment. He’s held titles in ECWA, NYWC, and CSWF, but his greatest achievement may be the joy he brings to fans and the spotlight he shines on rising stars.
As AEW continues to evolve, one thing’s for sure — Prince Nana isn’t just part of the show. He is the show.
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