In an exclusive interview with DJ Vlad, WWE Hall of Famer D-Von Dudley has shed light on the sensitive topic of wrestlers being called out for their profession. When asked about the often-heard criticism that professional wrestling is “fake,” Dudley revealed that it can be a trigger for many performers in the industry.
A Painful Reminder
During a particularly difficult time in his personal life, Dudley found himself in a divorce court where a court official referred to wrestling as “the fake stuff.” Dudley, who has been open about his struggles with anxiety and depression, admitted that he had to stop himself from reacting to the comment.
“It was one of those moments where you feel like you’re reliving the same thing all over again,” Dudley said. “You know, people not understanding what you do for a living, and then to have it come from someone who’s supposed to be impartial, it’s just hurtful.”
This experience is not unique to Dudley, as many wrestlers have spoken out about the challenges of being misunderstood and disrespected due to their profession. The stigma surrounding professional wrestling can make it difficult for performers to open up about their struggles with mental health and well-being.
A Trigger for Many
According to a WWE insider, calling wrestling “fake” can be a trigger for many performers in the industry. “It’s a constant reminder that people don’t take our craft seriously,” the insider said. “It’s like we’re not doing something meaningful or legitimate, and that can be really damaging to our mental health.”
This lack of understanding and respect can lead to feelings of frustration, anger, and even shame among wrestlers. When people call wrestling “fake,” it can be perceived as a personal attack, rather than a criticism of the entertainment value of the sport.
A Culture of Respect
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of wrestlers speaking out about the importance of mental health and the need for respect within the industry. Dudley is one of many performers who have used their platforms to raise awareness and promote positive change.
“We’re not just entertainers, we’re athletes, artists, and performers,” Dudley said. “We put our bodies on the line every night, and we deserve to be treated with respect.”
Sources close to Cody Rhodes revealed that the former WWE Champion has been working closely with the company to promote a culture of respect and understanding within the locker room. “Cody’s been a huge advocate for mental health awareness and respect within the industry,” a source said. “He’s helped to create a safe and supportive environment for performers to open up about their struggles and challenges.”
A Call to Action
Dudley’s experience in the divorce court serves as a reminder that the stigma surrounding professional wrestling is still very much alive. However, by speaking out and sharing their stories, wrestlers can help to break down barriers and promote understanding and respect.
“We need to keep pushing for respect and understanding within the industry,” Dudley said. “We need to show people that we’re not just fake, but we’re real people with real struggles and real emotions.”
As the wrestling world continues to evolve and grow, it’s time for fans and non-fans alike to take a closer look at the men and women who put their hearts and souls into the ring every night. By doing so, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment for wrestlers to thrive in.
The Future of Professional Wrestling
The future of professional wrestling looks bright, with a new generation of performers coming up through the ranks. By embracing the complexities and challenges of the industry, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone involved.
As Dudley said, “We’re not just entertainers, we’re people with stories and struggles. We deserve to be treated with respect and understanding.”