In the high-stakes world of professional wrestling, where careers are made and broken, the lines between personal and professional relationships can often become blurred. For former WWE Superstar Rikishi, this blurred line has led to some unsettling revelations about the company’s tactics when it comes to its talent.
Speaking on the Off the Top podcast, Rikishi made some striking comments about the WWE’s treatment of married couples within the business. According to Rikishi, the company has been known to use these relationships against the couples themselves, particularly during contract negotiations.
“They do things to embarrass you, to send a message to your husband,” Rikishi explained. “They’ll make sure your wife gets hurt, or they’ll make sure you get embarrassed in front of your wife, just to send a message to your husband, you know what I’m saying?”
Rikishi’s comments suggest a culture of manipulation and coercion, where the WWE uses the personal relationships of its talent as leverage to get what it wants. This raises questions about the company’s accountability and its treatment of its performers.
A Culture of Fear and Intimidation
Rikishi’s statements imply that the WWE’s use of married couples as leverage is a calculated move to intimidate and control its talent. By threatening to harm or embarrass the partner of a performer, the company can effectively hold that performer hostage, forcing them to comply with its demands.
This tactic is not only morally reprehensible but also speaks to the power dynamics at play in the WWE. Rikishi emphasized that his concern was not about the women in the business, but rather the power imbalance that exists between the company and its performers.
“It’s not about the girls, it’s about the power dynamic,” Rikishi said. “They have the power, and you know, we’re just pawns in their game, you know what I’m saying?”
A Legacy of Manipulation
Rikishi’s comments are not the first to suggest that the WWE has a history of manipulating its talent. In recent years, there have been numerous reports of performers being subjected to emotional and psychological abuse, including gaslighting, bullying, and sabotage.
Some have even accused the company of using its internal affairs department as a tool to silence performers who speak out against the company’s practices. This culture of fear and intimidation has led to a number of high-profile departures, with performers citing the company’s lack of support and care for its talent.
WWE’s Response
When reached for comment, a WWE spokesperson declined to address Rikishi’s specific allegations, instead releasing a statement emphasizing the company’s commitment to its performers’ well-being.
“The WWE is dedicated to providing a safe and supportive environment for all of its performers,” the spokesperson said. “We take all allegations seriously and will continue to work towards creating a positive and respectful workplace culture.”
However, sources close to the company suggest that Rikishi’s comments may have struck a nerve. According to a WWE insider, the company has been conducting an internal review of its policies and procedures, with a focus on addressing the power dynamics at play between the company and its performers.
“Rikishi’s comments have definitely sparked a conversation within the company,” the insider said. “There are definitely some people who are willing to listen and make changes, but it’s a slow process, and it’s going to take time.”
A Call to Action
Rikishi’s revelations serve as a stark reminder of the power dynamics at play in the WWE. While the company’s commitment to its performers’ well-being is welcomed, it is clear that more needs to be done to address the culture of fear and intimidation that has long plagued the business.
As the wrestling world continues to evolve, it is time for the WWE to take a closer look at its practices and policies. By listening to the concerns of its performers and taking concrete steps to address the power imbalance, the company can create a more positive and supportive environment for all its talent.
Ultimately, it is up to the WWE to decide whether it will continue down the path of manipulation and coercion or choose a different route. One thing is certain, however: the eyes of the wrestling world are watching, and the company’s actions will have far-reaching consequences for its performers, its fans, and the industry as a whole.