In a candid conversation with fellow Spencer Matthews, WWE legend Chris Jericho made it clear that he has no time for fans clamoring for instant gratification in the world of professional wrestling. The AEW and WWE stalwart took aim at the increasingly impatient fanbase, stating that the art of slow-burning storylines is a vital part of the sport’s rich history.
“Listen, I get it,” Jericho said in a recent chat with Matthews. “People want to see action, they want to see payoffs, they want to see winners and losers. But that’s not how you build a compelling narrative, that’s not how you create lasting memories. The payoffs have to be earned, and if people can’t sit through a few weeks of build-up, then maybe they’re not the target audience for this business.”
Jericho’s comments come at a time when the wrestling world is witnessing a surge in short-attention-span fans, who are accustomed to instant results and quick fixes. This shift in fan behavior has put pressure on wrestlers, writers, and promoters to deliver instant payoffs, often sacrificing the long-term storytelling in the process.
However, Jericho is not alone in his frustration. Sources close to WWE have revealed that many of the company’s top talent share Jericho’s sentiments, feeling that the increasing demand for instant gratification is stifling the creative process and hurting the sport as a whole.
“WWE is constantly trying to balance the needs of the fanbase with the creative vision of the writers and performers,” a WWE insider noted. “But when you have a fanbase that’s so focused on instant payoffs, it’s like they’re asking for a fast-food meal when you’re serving a five-star Michelin dinner. It’s just not how the business works, and it’s not how you build a lasting legacy.”
Jericho, who has been a part of the wrestling industry for over three decades, is a prime example of a wrestler who has made a career out of building slow-burning storylines. His feuds with the likes of Shawn Michaels, The Rock, and Kevin Owens have become the stuff of legend, with each match and segment expertly crafted to pay off in the most satisfying way possible.
“Chris Jericho is someone who understands the value of patience and persistence,” said WWE Hall of Famer, Mick Foley. “He’s a master of building anticipation, of making you feel like you’re waiting for something big to happen. And when it finally does, it’s like the whole world explodes. That’s the magic of wrestling, and that’s what makes it so compelling.”
While Jericho’s comments may resonate with some fans, they are likely to spark controversy among those who demand instant gratification. However, as the wrestling world continues to evolve, it’s clear that the art of slow-burning storylines is not going away anytime soon.
“Chris Jericho is speaking to a generation of wrestlers who are tired of being pigeonholed into the ‘quick fix’ mold,” said renowned wrestling journalist, Dave Meltzer. “He’s reminding us that the best stories in wrestling are the ones that take time to develop, the ones that require patience and effort. And if fans can’t appreciate that, then maybe they’re not the fans we want to cater to.”
In conclusion, Chris Jericho’s comments serve as a reminder that the world of professional wrestling is not a fast-food joint, but a slow-cooked meal that requires patience, persistence, and a willingness to invest in the storytelling process. As the wrestling world continues to navigate the ever-changing landscape of fan expectations, it’s clear that Jericho’s sentiments will resonate with many in the industry – and that’s exactly why he’s one of the greatest of all time.