Cruz Montana has opened up about his difficult journey before reaching the main roster. The rising star made a surprise appearance on WWE RAW last week. He revealed himself as the newest member of Royce Keys’ 946 faction.

However, his main roster arrival reportedly came together unexpectedly. WWE officials in NXT were reportedly unaware of the decision. Montana was originally expected to continue as a babyface in NXT. His portrayal also focused on emphasizing his stature as a good guy shortly before his WWE RAW debut.

Following his main roster debut, Montana shared an emotional message on Instagram. He reflected on his wrestling journey and personal struggles. The star also opened up about spending time in rehab three and a half years ago. Montana explained how difficult life had become during that period. He also credited his daughter for giving him a reason to rebuild his life.

He wrote, “What a week it’s been… For the first time since last Monday, I’ve had the chance to sit with myself, process, and take everything in. If you would’ve told me 3 and a half years ago, while I was sitting in rehab trying to figure my life out, at its darkest point. That I’d be where I am today, I would’ve told you to fck off…But at the same time, If there’s one thing I knew about myself. It’s that I’ve been blessed with the ability to use my pain and struggles to paint. And God, what an amazing picture I’ve painted the last few years.”

“I knew when I got back into the game, I needed to change everything up and force growth. The only way to do that was to leave my comfort zone and face the fears and uncertainties that were waiting for me. I had such an overwhelming belief in myself that I couldn’t just bury it away. I was given a 2nd chance at life and I knew that I was going to make the absolute best of it.”

“My daughter saved my life and my way to repay her was to give her a front row seat to watching her papi rebuild himself in every single way. She watched me go from rock bottom to some of the highest mountain tops. I wouldn’t have it any other way. I say all that, to say this, BELIEVE IN YOURSELF. TRUST YOURSELF. BET ON YOURSELF.”

“No one is going to get you where you want to go other than YOU. I’m living proof everyday that anything is possible WHEN YOU PUT IN THE WORK. A poor Puerto Rican Kid from the projects, who had a dream and the drive to CHASE IT. THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO BELIEVED AND TOOK THIS RIDE WITH ME.”

Montana helped 946 attack Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, giving the group a numbers advantage. However, Jacob Fatu’s return balanced the sides on WWE RAW. The two factions are set to face each other in a WarGames match at Survivor Series.