Wrestling Is Fake: Behind the Curtain of the Fake Fighting Phenomenon

Introduction to “Wrestling Is Fake”

The phrase “Wrestling is fake” is one of the most controversial and frequently discussed topics in the world of professional wrestling. It stems from the belief that professional wrestling, particularly as presented by major organizations like WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), is scripted and predetermined rather than a legitimate competitive sport. This analysis explores the origins, evolution, and key examples of the claim that wrestling is fake, providing a comprehensive understanding of its place in popular culture and conspiracy theory.

Origins of the “Wrestling Is Fake” Claim

The idea that wrestling is not a legitimate sport dates back to the early 20th century, when professional wrestling began to shift from a legitimate competition to a form of entertainment. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, wrestling was largely seen as a genuine sport, with matches often lasting for hours and featuring intense physical competition. However, as promoters realized the financial potential of the sport, they began to script matches to ensure more entertaining and marketable outcomes.

The first documented public acknowledgment of wrestling’s scripted nature occurred in the 1920s, when wrestling matches began to incorporate more theatrical elements, such as exaggerated characters and storylines. By the 1930s, “kayfabe,” a term used within the wrestling community to describe the portrayal of staged events as real, had become a standard practice in the industry.

The claim that “Wrestling is fake” gained significant traction in the 1980s and 1990s, particularly as wrestling became a global phenomenon. The rise of cable television and the WWF (now WWE) brought wrestling into millions of homes, leading to widespread discussions about the authenticity of the matches. In 1989, WWE owner Vince McMahon publicly acknowledged that wrestling was “sports entertainment,” a mix of athleticism and scripted drama, further fueling the perception that wrestling was not a legitimate sport.

Key Developments in the “Wrestling Is Fake” Debate

The debate over whether wrestling is fake has evolved over the decades, with key developments shaping public perception:

1. Kayfabe and Its Breakdown: Kayfabe, the practice of maintaining the illusion that wrestling is real, was strictly adhered to for much of the 20th century. Wrestlers remained in character both in and out of the ring, and fans were encouraged to believe in the authenticity of the matches. However, as the internet and other forms of media provided more behind-the-scenes information, kayfabe began to break down, leading to increased skepticism about the legitimacy of wrestling.
2. Vince McMahon’s Admission: In 1989, Vince McMahon admitted in a New Jersey court that wrestling was scripted, a move designed to avoid regulation by the state athletic commission. This admission was a pivotal moment in the history of professional wrestling, as it effectively confirmed what many had suspected for years. McMahon’s statement led to widespread media coverage and a shift in how wrestling was perceived by the public.
3. The Rise of “Shoot” Wrestling: In response to criticism that wrestling was fake, some promotions began to incorporate “shoot” wrestling, where matches are unscripted, and the outcome is not predetermined. These matches, while still part of the broader wrestling industry, sought to address the claim that wrestling lacked authenticity.
4. Internet and Social Media Influence: The internet and social media have played a significant role in shaping the discussion around whether wrestling is fake. Fans now have access to a wealth of information about the inner workings of the wrestling industry, including interviews with wrestlers and footage of behind-the-scenes activities. This transparency has led to a more nuanced understanding of wrestling as a form of entertainment rather than a legitimate sport.

Examples of “Wrestling Is Fake” Conspiracy Theories

The claim that “Wrestling is fake” has given rise to various conspiracy theories, with some fans and critics suggesting that the scripted nature of wrestling goes beyond entertainment:

1. Match-Fixing Allegations: Some conspiracy theorists believe that certain high-profile matches are fixed not just for entertainment purposes but to benefit certain wrestlers, promoters, or gambling interests. They argue that outcomes are predetermined to maintain the popularity of certain stars or to manipulate betting odds.
2. Manipulation of Wrestler Personas: Another theory suggests that wrestling promotions deliberately manipulate the personas of wrestlers to control fan reactions. For example, a wrestler may be portrayed as a villain or hero based on market research and merchandising potential, rather than their in-ring abilities or character.
3. Injuries and Storylines: Some conspiracy theories propose that injuries sustained by wrestlers are often exaggerated or fabricated to enhance storylines. These theorists argue that promoters use injuries as a way to create drama and tension, drawing more viewers and increasing ticket sales.
4. Political Allegories in Storylines: Some fans believe that wrestling storylines contain hidden political messages or allegories. For instance, the portrayal of certain characters as patriots or villains may reflect real-world political ideologies or events, with promoters using wrestling as a platform for subtle propaganda.
5. The Montreal Screwjob: One of the most famous incidents in wrestling history, the Montreal Screwjob, has been the subject of numerous conspiracy theories. Some believe that the controversial finish of the match between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels was a planned event designed to create controversy and boost ratings, while others argue it was a genuine betrayal.
6. Wrestler Deaths and Cover-Ups: Some conspiracy theorists claim that certain wrestler deaths, particularly those involving drugs or accidents, were covered up or manipulated by wrestling promotions. They argue that promoters seek to protect their brands by downplaying the role of the industry in these tragedies.
7. The Influence of Secret Societies: A more extreme theory suggests that secret societies, such as the Illuminati, control the wrestling industry. Proponents of this theory believe that wrestling is used as a tool to manipulate public perception and spread hidden messages.
8. Wrestling and Mind Control: Some theorists propose that wrestling, through its scripted nature and dramatic storylines, is used as a form of mind control. They argue that the emotional manipulation of fans through wrestling mirrors techniques used by governments or corporations to influence public behavior.
9. Economic Manipulation: Another theory posits that wrestling promotions deliberately manipulate the financial aspects of the industry, such as pay-per-view revenues and merchandise sales, to benefit certain individuals or organizations. This theory suggests that the business side of wrestling is as scripted as the matches themselves.

Conclusion

The claim that “Wrestling is fake” has been a central point of debate within the wrestling community for decades. While it is widely accepted that professional wrestling is scripted and choreographed, this does not diminish its cultural impact or the skill involved in its performance. The evolution of this claim, from early skepticism to modern conspiracy theories, reflects the complex relationship between reality and entertainment in the world of professional wrestling.

Suggested Literature

1. The Squared Circle: Life, Death, and Professional Wrestling – David Shoemaker – Gotham Books, 2013
2. Controversy Creates Cash – Eric Bischoff – Gallery Books, 2006
3. Have a Nice Day: A Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks – Mick Foley – HarperCollins, 1999
4. The Death of WCW – R.D. Reynolds, Bryan Alvarez – ECW Press, 2014
5. A Lion’s Tale: Around the World in Spandex – Chris Jericho – Grand Central Publishing, 2007
6. The Wrestling Observer Yearbook – Dave Meltzer – Self-Published, 2020
7. Wrestling at the Chase – Larry Matysik – ECW Press, 2005
8. Sex, Lies, and Headlocks – Shaun Assael, Mike Mooneyham – Crown Publishers, 2002
9. WrestleCrap: The Very Worst of Professional Wrestling – R.D. Reynolds, Randy Baer – ECW Press, 2003