Professional wrestling legend Tyrus has made headlines once again, this time for his strong stance against the acclaimed documentary series Dark Side of the Ring. Speaking candidly on TMZ’s Inside The Ring, Tyrus revealed he has been approached multiple times to appear on the show but has always declined. “I would never participate in those,” he stated, making his position clear and sparking fresh debate about the role of wrestling documentaries in the industry.
Tyrus’ Passionate Defense of Wrestling
Tyrus, best known for his time in WWE as Brodus Clay and his recent reign as NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion, has never shied away from controversy. His latest comments come as a passionate defense of the wrestling business and its legacy. “I love this business,” Tyrus said. “I’ve dedicated my life to it. I’m not going to be part of something that digs up dirt and makes us look bad.”
The former Funkasaurus believes that shows like Dark Side of the Ring focus too much on the negative aspects of wrestling history, often at the expense of the hard work and dedication of those who have contributed to the industry. “We’ve got legends who gave their blood, sweat, and tears to this business,” Tyrus continued. “I’m not going to be the guy who helps tear that down.”
Why Tyrus Refuses to Appear
Dark Side of the Ring, produced by Vice TV, has become a staple for wrestling fans, known for its in-depth exploration of some of the most controversial and tragic stories in professional wrestling. However, not everyone in the industry is a fan. Tyrus is among the most vocal critics, arguing that the series often sensationalizes the darker moments in wrestling history.
“I’ve been asked to participate before,” Tyrus admitted. “But I always say no. I’m not going to be part of something that makes us look like a bunch of freaks or criminals. We’re entertainers, not monsters.”
According to a WWE insider, Tyrus’ stance is shared by several veterans who feel the show sometimes crosses the line. “There’s a lot of respect for what Dark Side of the Ring has done in terms of storytelling,” the insider said. “But there’s also concern that it can be exploitative, especially when it comes to sensitive topics. Tyrus is just being honest about how he feels.”
The Impact of Wrestling Documentaries
The rise of wrestling documentaries has brought both praise and criticism. On one hand, they have shed light on important issues and given a voice to those who have been marginalized. On the other, some argue that they can perpetuate negative stereotypes and focus too much on the industry’s controversies.
Tyrus believes that the focus should be on celebrating the achievements of wrestlers rather than dwelling on their mistakes. “We’ve got so many great stories to tell,” he said. “Why not focus on the positive? Why not talk about the guys who overcame adversity and made it to the top?”
The insider added, “Tyrus is right in saying that we need to be careful about how we portray our history. There’s a fine line between telling the truth and exploiting it for ratings.”
Tyrus’ Legacy and the NWA
Tyrus’ comments come at a time when he is enjoying a resurgence in his career. After a successful run in WWE, he found new success in the NWA, where he has held both the Television and World Heavyweight Championships. His tenure as champion has been met with mixed reactions, but Tyrus remains proud of his accomplishments.
“I’ve worked hard to get where I am,” he said. “I’m not going to let anyone take that away from me. I’m not going to be part of something that tries to make me look bad.”
NWA owner Billy Corgan has been a vocal supporter of Tyrus, defending his champion against critics. “When Tyrus walks in the door, he brings the heat,” Corgan said in a recent interview. “He’s not running a charity, and he’s not here to please everyone.”
The Future of Wrestling Storytelling
As the wrestling industry continues to evolve, the debate over how its history is told is likely to persist. Tyrus’ refusal to participate in Dark Side of the Ring highlights the ongoing tension between those who want to celebrate the business and those who want to expose its flaws.
“Wrestling is about entertainment,” Tyrus said. “It’s about making people happy. I’m not going to be part of something that makes us look like we’re anything less than that.”
The WWE insider concluded, “Tyrus is a true believer in the business. He’s not afraid to speak his mind, and that’s something we need more of in this industry.”
Conclusion
Tyrus’ decision to stay away from Dark Side of the Ring is more than just a personal choice—it’s a statement about the values he holds dear. As wrestling continues to grapple with its past and present, voices like Tyrus’ will play a crucial role in shaping its future. Whether you agree with his stance or not, one thing is clear: Tyrus is passionate about the business he loves, and he’s not afraid to defend it.