In a recent interview with Wrestling Inc., WWE Hall of Famer Jake Roberts expressed his disappointment with the current state of characters in professional wrestling, both in WWE and AEW. Roberts, known for his rugged and unpredictable persona during his wrestling days, believes that the industry has lost its touch when it comes to creating memorable and believable characters.
Background on Jake Roberts
Born Aurelian Jake Smith Jr., Jake Roberts is a wrestling legend with a storied career spanning over four decades. He is a former two-time WWF Champion and a 1986 King of the Ring winner. Known for his intense and unpredictable performances, Roberts was a key figure in the WWF’s (now WWE) 1990s era, often finding himself at the center of controversy and drama.
The Lack of Characters in WWE and AEW
According to Roberts, the current crop of wrestlers lacks the depth and complexity that makes a truly great character. “I think that’s where we’re missing the boat, is with the characters,” Roberts stated. “We’re not creating characters that have any depth or any substance. We’re just kind of going through the motions, and that’s not what it’s all about.”
Roberts points to the fact that many modern wrestlers rely too heavily on their physicality, rather than developing a well-rounded character that fans can connect with on an emotional level. “I think we need to go back to the old days of creating characters that have some kind of depth, some kind of meaning,” he said. “Not just guys who are just great in the ring, but guys who can talk, who can tell a story, who can create a character that people can get behind.”
Storyline History and WWE Implications
This criticism comes at a time when WWE is trying to revamp its storytelling and character development. The company has made significant changes in recent years, from the introduction of new talent to the revamped creative team. However, Roberts’ comments suggest that more work needs to be done to create memorable and believable characters.
AEW, on the other hand, has been praised for its focus on character development and storytelling. The company’s emphasis on in-ring work and creative characters has resonated with fans, who are drawn to the unique personalities and storylines presented by AEW.
Fan Reaction and Analysis
Fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts on Roberts’ comments, with some agreeing that the industry has lost its touch when it comes to character development. “Jake Roberts is right, we need more characters with depth and substance,” wrote one fan on Twitter. “The current crop of wrestlers is all about physicality, not about telling a story or creating a character that people can get behind.”
Others, however, have defended WWE and AEW’s current approach to character development. “I think Jake Roberts is out of touch with the current wrestling landscape,” wrote another fan. “WWE and AEW are doing just fine with their character development, and fans are eating it up.”
Future WWE Implications
Roberts’ comments may have implications for WWE’s future creative direction. The company has been trying to revamp its storytelling and character development, and Roberts’ criticism may suggest that more work needs to be done. WWE may need to take a closer look at its creative team and talent roster to ensure that they are creating memorable and believable characters.
Conclusion
Jake Roberts’ comments on the lack of characters in WWE and AEW serve as a reminder that character development is still a crucial aspect of professional wrestling. While WWE and AEW have made significant strides in recent years, there is still room for improvement when it comes to creating memorable and believable characters.
As the wrestling industry continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how WWE and AEW respond to Roberts’ criticism. Will they take his comments to heart and make changes to their creative approach, or will they continue to stick with their current formula? Only time will tell.
FAQ Section
Q: What did Jake Roberts say about the lack of characters in WWE and AEW?
A: Roberts stated that the current crop of wrestlers lacks depth and complexity, and that the industry needs to go back to creating characters with substance and meaning.
Q: Why does Roberts think WWE and AEW are struggling with character development?
A: Roberts believes that modern wrestlers rely too heavily on their physicality, rather than developing a well-rounded character that fans can connect with on an emotional level.
Q: What implications do Roberts’ comments have for WWE’s future creative direction?
A: Roberts’ criticism may suggest that WWE needs to take a closer look at its creative team and talent roster to ensure that they are creating memorable and believable characters.
Q: How have fans responded to Roberts’ comments?
A: Fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts, with some agreeing with Roberts and others defending WWE and AEW’s current approach to character development.