With the help of his background in mixed martial arts, Puder outfought his competition, including a surprise victory over an established WWE star, former Olympic gold medallist, Kurt Angle. Puder also gained fan support for kissing a Hall of Fame wrestler—an 81-year old woman who later gave him a lap dance in return—and for appearing on national television in women's clothing. The stunts helped him pick up crucial votes in weekly fan balloting. Ultimately, wrestling fans narrowly selected him as the winner over Mike Minzanin in the Dec. 16 finale billed as the "Dixie Dogfight.'

Puder will receive $1 million—$250,000 over the next four years—for his victory and also received a pro wrestling contract from the WWE. Puder, 23, grew up in Cupertino where he was a high school wrestling champion at Monta Vista High School. He later attended Menlo College in Menlo Park, ran a printing company and a started a nonprofit strength program for kids. He hopes to use his windfall and newfound celebrity to continue his fitness work with youth. "I can't believe it," Puder told the crowd after designated the winner.

"My dream's finally here."