Who is Josh Hutchins from Swan Song and what is their importance?

Before the blast Josh Hutchins is an ex-football player turned wrestler. He goes from town to town to fight in fixed wrestling matches, living only to go back to his hotel and eat doughnuts. He misses his wife and children, though he and his wife are separated. Though he appears menacing, he is a gentle giant with the capacity to care very deeply. He survives the blast by being trapped in PawPaw's basement with Swan and Darleen. Though their situation seems hopeless, Josh has a strong instinct to survive. He is given a purpose again when the body of PawPaw miraculously comes to life and commands him to "protect the child." Swan becomes his charge and he is her guardian.