Overview:

Change or Die: Diamond Dallas Page’s New Series Shows What It Really Takes to Change dives deep into the inspiring transformation journey led by WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page and his life-changing fitness program, DDPY. The new docuseries, streaming free on Tubi, follows five individuals — including former athletes and everyday people — who face physical, emotional, and mental challenges that threaten their lives. Guided by Page’s unique blend of yoga, rehabilitation, and motivational coaching, Change or Die explores what it truly means to rebuild from rock bottom. Unlike traditional reality shows, the series focuses on empowerment, teamwork, and self-belief, offering a raw, emotional look at how real change happens from the inside out.

Taking Life Back Through DDPY

DDPY is more than just a fitness program. Founded by WWE Hall of Famer Diamond Dallas Page, it combines yoga, sports rehabilitation, and resistance training to deliver a full-body workout that’s changed millions of lives. But beyond the physical results, DDPY has helped people take back control of their futures — one transformation at a time.

Now, that mission has been captured in a new docuseries that’s been making headlines: Change or Die.

A Different Kind of Reality

The series follows five individuals living together in a shared house in Atlanta, each facing a personal breaking point. Every participant has a unique story — yet all have reached rock bottom. With Page’s mentorship and the DDPY program, each is given a chance to rebuild not only their health but their hope.

Page spoke exclusively with Presence News about what sets Change or Die apart from the countless reality shows dominating screens today.

“It’s not a reality show,” Page said. “I wasn’t trying to pit one person against another; I was trying to get everyone to lift each other up.”

Unlike typical reality TV, Change or Die focuses on authentic transformation and mutual support — offering its participants what could truly be their last chance at life.

Meet the Five Participants

Cassandra “Cisi” Melendez

An entrepreneur and model once deeply involved in fitness, Cisi lost her momentum during the 2020 lockdowns. She joins the program to reclaim her health and reignite her modeling career.

Eric “Butterbean” Esch

The boxing legend known as “Butterbean” has battled weight issues his entire life. Now, his weight has reached a point where it restricts his movement — and prevents him from getting much-needed hip surgery. His journey is one of resilience and physical redemption.

Mildred Mason

A 67-year-old retiree and mother, Mildred fears she may not outlive her own mother, who passed away at the same age. She enters the house determined to rewrite that fate and extend her years through healthier living.

Taylor Sowers

At just 21, Taylor has become trapped in his home due to extreme weight gain. His goal in Change or Die is not only to lose weight but to regain the ability — and confidence — to experience life beyond his walls.

Marcus “Buff” Bagwell

The former pro wrestler is no stranger to the spotlight, but his struggles with prescription drug addiction

nearly cost him his life after a car accident in 2020. Page, a longtime friend, brings him into the program to help him find his way back to health and purpose.

The Roadblocks to Change

The challenges these five face aren’t only physical — they’re deeply mental. Change or Die explores the internal battles that so often sabotage progress.

The Stories We Tell Ourselves

Page says the heart of the show lies in confronting personal narratives.

“It’s really about allowing people to be in touch with the story they tell themselves,” he said. “So many people talk negatively about themselves and don’t understand why so much goes wrong — you put it here.”

Each participant must rewrite their internal story — whether it’s Cisi regaining confidence, Butterbean and Taylor overcoming doubt, Mildred conquering fear, or Buff facing his addictions.

Overcoming Negativity

Self-talk can make or break transformation. Page draws a striking comparison from his wrestling career: “It’s easy to say ‘I can’t do this.’ It’s like wrestling — it’s easy to be the heel, but it’s hard to get people to love you.”

He also redefines the classic metaphor:

“It comes down to the glass half-full or half-empty. For a lot of people, there is no glass.”

In today’s culture of instant gratification and social media pressure, maintaining positivity is harder than ever — but essential.

Staying Committed

Even with the right mindset, success requires consistency. Page emphasizes the importance of commitment through a quote from NFL legend Tom Brady:

“To be successful at anything, you don’t have to be special; you just have to be willing to do what most people won’t — be committed, be consistent, and be disciplined.”

For these five individuals, that commitment will be tested every step of the way.