In a recent interview, the legendary Deadman himself, The Undertaker, has expressed his thoughts on the current state of professional wrestling. Speaking candidly about the modern WWE, The Undertaker believes that today’s stars are lacking a crucial element that defined the sport in its heyday: grit.
A Shift Away from the Hardcore Era
The Undertaker, known for his intense and physically demanding performances, has often been associated with the hardcore era of professional wrestling. That era, which spanned from the late 1980s to the early 2000s, was characterized by its emphasis on in-ring brutality and the wrestlers’ willingness to push their bodies to the limit. It was a time when wrestlers like Mick Foley, Eddie Guerrero, and The Undertaker himself were known for their fearless approach to the ring.
In contrast, The Undertaker believes that today’s WWE has shifted away from this hardcore approach. “I think we’ve gotten a little too soft,” he said. “We’ve become too focused on the entertainment side of things, and not enough on the physicality of the sport. The guys today are still great athletes, but they’re not willing to put their bodies on the line like we used to.”
The Importance of Physicality in Professional Wrestling
The Undertaker’s comments are not entirely surprising, given his reputation as one of the greatest in-ring performers of all time. However, his words do highlight a significant shift in the way professional wrestling is presented to the audience. While today’s WWE is undoubtedly more polished and refined than ever before, it’s clear that The Undertaker believes that something essential has been lost in the process.
“I think the physicality of the sport is what sets it apart from other forms of entertainment,” The Undertaker continued. “When you’re in the ring, you’re not just performing for the camera; you’re performing for the people who are actually there, in the stands. And that physicality is what creates a connection with the audience. It’s what makes them go ‘wow’ and makes them remember the match long after it’s over.”
Backstage Reaction to The Undertaker’s Comments
According to a WWE insider, The Undertaker’s comments have sparked a lot of discussion among the WWE Superstars. “A lot of guys are talking about this,” the insider revealed. “Some of them are saying that The Undertaker is being too harsh, that the job is just as tough as it was back in the day. But others are nodding their heads in agreement. They know that what he’s saying is true.”
One wrestler who has spoken out about The Undertaker’s comments is none other than Cody Rhodes. “I think The Undertaker is right on the money,” Rhodes said in an interview. “As a wrestler, you have to be willing to put your body on the line every time you step into the ring. And that’s not just about the physicality of the match itself; it’s about the toll that it takes on your body over time. I’ve seen guys who have been in this business for 10, 15 years, and they’re still going strong. But I’ve also seen guys who have burned out after just a few years. It’s a testament to the physicality of the sport, and to the sacrifices that wrestlers have to make.”
The Impact of The Undertaker’s Comments on the WWE
The Undertaker’s comments are likely to have significant implications for the WWE moving forward. On one hand, they may encourage the company to refocus on the physicality of the sport and the importance of in-ring action. On the other hand, they may also lead to a reevaluation of the company’s approach to injury prevention and wrestler health.
In an era where the WWE is increasingly focused on telling storylines and creating characters, The Undertaker’s comments are a timely reminder of the importance of the in-ring product. As the company continues to evolve and grow, it will be interesting to see how they respond to The Undertaker’s words of wisdom.
Conclusion
The Undertaker’s comments on the modern WWE landscape are a sobering reminder of the importance of physicality and grit in professional wrestling. As a sport that has always pushed the boundaries of athleticism and human endurance, professional wrestling must continue to prioritize the well-being and safety of its wrestlers. By doing so, the WWE can ensure that the sport continues to thrive for generations to come.
In the end, The Undertaker’s words are a call to action for the WWE and its Superstars. It’s a reminder that, no matter how polished or refined the product may be, the true heart and soul of professional wrestling lies in the in-ring action. And it’s up to the WWE to ensure that that action continues to be the best it can be, for the sake of the wrestlers, the fans, and the sport itself.