Tye Dillinger

Ronnie William Arneill (born February 19, 1981) is a Canadian professional wrestler, currently contracted to WWE under the ring name Tye Dillinger. Previously, Arneill worked in the independent circuit as Shawn Spears. Also, he worked with WWE between 2006 and 2008 as Gavin Spears.

Early life

Born and raised in St. Catharines, Ontario, Arneill attended Laura Secord Secondary School. He played hockey for over ten years until he decided to leave the sport and enter professional wrestling. During his childhood, he was a fan of Rick Rude, Rick Martel, and Mr. Perfect.

Professional wrestling career

Early career (2002–2006)

Arniell trained at the Hart Wrestling School in Cambridge Ontario with Smith Hart, Ike Shaw and Waldo Von Erich and then with Eric Young at the WrestlePlex school before receiving further training from Derek Wylde and Cody Deaner. Upon wrestling his debut match in March 2002 as Shawn Spears, he began wrestling for some of the biggest independent wrestling promotions throughout Ontario and the United States, including Border City Wrestling, World Xtreme Wrestling, and Blood Sweat and Ears. In February 2005, Arneill made an appearance on an edition of WWE Heat in a tag team match against Rosey and The Hurricane.