Ringside Review: Answering critics of wrestling and its fans
There is a mainstream perception of wrestling fans out there that is not terribly flattering.
It’s the belief that only children, sub-intelligent riff-raff and rednecks watch what is often called “rasslin’.” Along with that stereotype comes the frequent embarrassment of admitting you actually watch sports entertainment.
My friends often ask, “How did you like the Monday Night Football game?” When they are told I watched “Raw” instead, they say “but I thought you liked real sports.”
Worst of all, the people almost always carry a certain air about themselves when they talk down to you about it.
It’s fake, they’ll argue. There’s so much sex and violence it shouldn’t even be considered wrestling, they’ll say. It’s trashy television, they’ll tell you.
Well, I am tired of all the condescending remarks and mockery! It’s time to take a stand!
• “It’s fake.”
Granted, pro wrestling is scripted and has a predetermined result. But the bumps and bruises these guys take are very real.
If you’re still not convinced, take a look at a tape of Brock Lesnar vs. Kurt Angle at WrestleMania XIX. Wrestling, like almost every other television show out there, is out to tell a story. Sometimes it does a poor job of telling it, but it’s a story nonetheless.
• “There’s so much sex and violence, it shouldn’t be considered wrestling.”
Not any more than what you see on network television.
Have you seen “Temptation Island?” There’s so much sexual innuendo and sauciness, it’s a wonder it’s even called a TV show.
• “It’s trashy television.”
Please don’t tell me that, then go watch “Trailer Park Boys,” “South Park,” “Paradise Hotel,” or “O.C.”
• “Only children, sub-intelligent riff-raff and rednecks watch it.”
Ever been to a hockey game in person? Ever saw the painted-up fans at a UT game? Jerks and lowlifes are everywhere, not just at wrestling events.
About five years ago, I was at McDonald’s in Smithville. I was watching WCW on their TV along with about three others, when a man, woman and two young kids came in.
The man asked if he could turn the TV to a more fitting show for children. I asked why, and he said wrestling was too sexual and too violent.
I asked him what he would like to turn the TV to, and he said “The Nature Channel.” I asked him a very simple question. Is a show that features a pack of lions killing a newborn water buffalo really less violent than pro wrestling? He gathered his family, and walked out.
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