As the world of professional wrestling continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: the pursuit of the perfect match. With the rise of high-flying moves and hard-hitting sequences, it’s easy to get caught up in the spectacle of it all. However, according to WWE producer TJ Wilson, fans should be focusing on something much more fundamental – storytelling.
Wilson, a veteran of the wrestling industry and longtime creative force behind some of WWE’s biggest stars, believes that the key to a truly memorable match lies not in the moves themselves, but in the narrative that unfolds around them. “When you’re watching a match, you’re not just watching two people trying to hurt each other,” Wilson explained in a recent interview. “You’re watching a story unfold, with characters, plot twists, and a beginning, middle, and end. That’s what makes wrestling truly work.”
In an era where high-flying moves and high-impact sequences have become the norm, Wilson’s comments may seem counterintuitive. After all, who doesn’t love watching a wrestler soar through the air, executing a perfectly executed 450 splash or a beautifully executed double stomp? However, Wilson argues that while these moves are undoubtedly exciting, they’re ultimately just a means to an end. “The moves are just a language,” Wilson said. “They’re a way to tell a story, to convey emotion and intensity. But without a narrative to back them up, they’re just a bunch of noise.”
So, what makes a good story in wrestling? According to Wilson, it all comes down to character development and emotional investment. “When you’re watching a match, you want to care about the characters,” he explained. “You want to know why they’re fighting, what’s at stake, and what they’re fighting for. You want to be invested in their journey, to feel like you’re a part of it.”
This, of course, is where many wrestlers struggle. With the constant pressure to deliver high-impact matches and the ever-present threat of injury, it’s easy for performers to get lost in the shuffle. However, according to sources close to Cody Rhodes, the former WWE champion is one wrestler who has consistently prioritized storytelling above all else. “Cody’s always been a student of the game,” one insider revealed. “He knows that the key to a great match is not just about the moves, but about the emotional connection you make with the audience. He’s always looking for ways to deepen his characters, to make them more relatable and more human.”
Of course, Wilson’s emphasis on storytelling isn’t just limited to the ring. He believes that it’s essential for wrestlers to connect with their audience outside of the wrestling world as well. “When you’re watching a match, you’re not just watching a wrestler,” he said. “You’re watching a person, with their own personality, their own backstory, and their own motivations. You want to know who they are, what makes them tick, and what drives them.”
This, of course, is where social media comes in. With millions of followers at their fingertips, wrestlers have the opportunity to connect with their audience like never before. However, according to sources close to WWE, many performers are struggling to find the right balance between their online presence and their in-ring work. “It’s a delicate balance,” one insider revealed. “On the one hand, you want to be visible, to connect with your audience and build your brand. On the other hand, you don’t want to come across as insincere or try-hard. It’s a tightrope, and one that many wrestlers are struggling to walk.”
So, what’s the takeaway here? According to Wilson, it’s simple: storytelling is key. Whether you’re a wrestler, a promoter, or simply a fan, the art of storytelling is what makes wrestling truly work. It’s what connects us to the characters, to the story, and to each other. And in an era where high-flying moves and high-impact sequences have become the norm, it’s more important than ever to focus on the fundamentals.
As Wilson so eloquently put it, “Wrestling is a story, not a spectacle. And it’s up to us to tell that story in a way that’s authentic, engaging, and memorable.” With that in mind, it’s worth asking: what’s your story? What makes you tick, what drives you, and what do you want to achieve? In the world of professional wrestling, the answer to that question is everything.