Professional wrestling is hotter than it has been in a long time and viewers have an obscene wealth of programming to digest between AEW, WWE, and smaller promotions.
On the latest episode of NXT, Sexxy Red ventured to the developmental brand to create one of the most implausible crossover events in recent memory. On Sunday, Floyd Mayweather was sitting ringside at the fifth anniversary of Double or Nothing as Swerve Strickland defeated Christian Cage to retain the AEW World Championship.
In the weeks leading to WrestleMania XL, The Rock said pro wrestling is cool again, and it's hard to deny that given all the positive buzz and visibility around the genre lately. It's truly an exciting time to be a fan again because it feels like anything can happen.
So, why is online discourse around this beloved pastime often such a miserable experience?
That has become a conundrum because while wrestling is so much fun right now, it isn't always as enjoyable to talk about on social media.
Yes, tribalism and bad faith takes have exacerbated the divide between AEW and WWE's loyal fanbase. However, many hardcore watchers are also still locked in an ongoing debate over in-ring vs. stories.
Of course, the idea that one or the other holds your attention and makes for memorable television is the crux of the argument, but it's usually subjective. Still, that won't stop many fans and critics from arguing about their preferences and viewing habits when it's often about striking the right balance.
Matches vs. Storytelling
Pro wrestling is often at its best when the marriage of outrageous theatrics and great in-ring actions can get us to believe in the characters on screen. When you boil it all down, we're all just looking for reasons to remain invested in a genre that hooked us when we were younger.
For some viewers, character work and storylines will always keep the audience engaged, and plenty of evidence supports that argument. After all, Roman Reigns and the Bloodline was the hottest act in the industry, and Cody Rhodes' quest to finish his story helped usher in a new era for WWE.
Longtime viewers will always remember how superstars like The Undertaker or Bray Wyatt captured their imaginations and kept them interested in weekly happenings. Stone Cold Steve Austin was so relatable because everyone has hated their boss at some point, and we could live vicariously through him when he rebelled against authority.
Larger-than-life figures like The Rock, Macho Man Randy Savage, Ric Flair, and many others made pro wrestling special. Nevertheless, high-quality matches and the competitive sports aspect of the genre also appeal to a considerable denomination of the audience.
To that end, Chad Gable's current heel turn has produced a great midcard storyline, but his matches with Sami Zayn have also been the payoff.
Former tape traders and many hardcore patrons who used to frequent messageboards can break down classic All Japan matches or remember arbitrary match ratings. The day-one Ring of Honor fans or loyal New Japan supporters enjoy great stories too, but they prioritize work rate and top-notch performances.
Some casual fans may not be able to relate, but the sport-centric element of the industry inspired so many people to become wrestlers or simply find their crowd of like-minded viewers. Wrestling is a communal experience that has created lifelong bonds like any other legitimate sport.
Sure, it's hard for some people to get past the fact that it's predetermined, so the competitive aspect rings hollow. However, a well-executed match can make a momentary believer out of even the biggest skeptics.
As Bryan Danielson once said, "One thing I truly believe, you show excellent professional wrestling to anybody and they'll enjoy it because excellent professional wrestling is f---ing awesome."
A Catch-22
One crowd will argue that they don't enjoy WWE because of the focus on moments and storylines. Meanwhile, the other will admonish AEW for their perceived lack of storytelling and a constant stream of meaningless matches.
However, both companies produce enough storylines and in-ring action to satisfy their core audience. The King and Queen of the Ring tournament recently proved that exceptional matches can still hook fans of the WWE product.
To that end, Gunther's run as Intercontinental champion made him one of the most popular antagonists on the roster. Also, let's not forget that NXT's version of no-frills pro wrestling during the Black and Gold era brought a lot of lapsed fans back.
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Conversely, Toni Storm's character work and incredible promos have made her one of the biggest stars in AEW's women's division. Before her, Britt Baker excelled for the same reasons as a top heel.
More recently, MJF became a fan favorite, and his reluctant friendship with Adam Cole was the hottest storyline in the company before injuries robbed us of a satisfying conclusion. The sports entertainment approach isn't for everyone, but the live audience has responded well to other examples.
In truth, this neverending debate comes down to preferences, and there will never be a perfect balance of storytelling and in-ring for most viewers. Both companies effectively service their audience, and that's why parity is so important to the industry's overall health and growth.
We have so much wrestling readily available to us it seems counterproductive to argue incessantly about how either should be more like your preferred company. It's much easier to gravitate to the content you enjoy and find the adequate fix of engaging storylines and amazing matches that suit your needs.
Some of us watch AEW or NJPW for the big pay-per-view matches but still tune into WWE for captivating stories. Yes, many fans prefer to keep up with one company, and that may never change.
Still, you're doing yourself a bit of a disservice if you don't take advantage of the limitless access to wrestling modern fans have. Frankly, we all have a choice in how much pro wrestling we consume, and it's up to you to find the essential balance that works best.
