One of the topics we covered during our Wednesday Show on GWS Radio yesterday was pro-wrestling. The most common remarks to fans of pro wrestling come in two forms: either that it is fake, or that they put on a concerned face and ask if they realise it isn’t real. Everyone knows it isn’t real, but how fake is it?
For much of wrestling’s recent history over the past 50 years, two main companies have dominated, although WWF/WWE has always played a role. Notable others include ECW (Paul Heyman), WCW, and AEW (Tony Khan, who also owns Fulham FC). WWE has stayed under the ownership of the McMahon family since Vince McMahon and his father founded the WWF. Last year, it was sold for approximately £7 billion and merged with UFC to create a much larger organisation. There are also many smaller wrestling companies that tour specific regions, giving fans the chance to watch live without high costs and meet the wrestlers. Regarding whether it is fake, the right term isn’t really ‘fake’—it’s pre-determined. Viewers set aside their doubts. Just as those who watch Eastenders or Mission Impossible aren’t constantly reminded its fiction, the same applies here. Pro wrestling is sports entertainment. It isn’t quite the sport you’d find at the Olympics, but does that really matter?
It’s true that it hurts—many injuries happen at all levels—and these wrestlers constantly risk their health and lives for our entertainment.
Sylv mentioned that I should know it hurts. A few years ago, I went along to film a weekend of training. I was asked if I would like to have a go, and me, being me, I said, ‘Yes.’ Well, it took two days before I managed to walk without pain. Never again.
We discussed our favourite wrestlers. I mentioned Sammy Zane and Mick Foley. For Sylv, it was The Miz and Finn Balor.
Among all wrestling shows, we both prefer the Royal Rumble because it offers more entertainment.
You can now watch all the WWE shows and premium events on Netflix, except for Saturday Night’s Main Event, which is broadcast free on YouTube. AEW shows are available on ITV4, with premium events on Amazon Prime.
Do you enjoy wrestling? Share your favourite wrestler in the comments.
