Why WWE is Not 'Fake': Debunking the Myth

Often, WWE, or World Wrestling Entertainment, faces criticism for being perceived as "fake," a criticism that is repeatedly leveled even as similar artistic forms like movies and TV shows are widely accepted as scripted. This article aims to explore why such a perception exists and address the misconception head-on.

The Nature of Performance

WWE is a unique blend of athletics and scripted storylines that seeks to entertain its audience while showcasing the physical prowess of its performers. Unlike traditional sports, where the outcome is determined by the skill and efforts of real athletes, WWE's matches are meticulously planned and executed. Nonetheless, the physicality involved is real. Wrestlers undergo extensive training to execute dangerous moves that can result in real injuries. This blend of performance and physicality sets WWE apart from purely scripted entertainment forms.

Expectations of Authenticity

One of the key reasons for the controversy surrounding WWE is the mismatch between audience expectations and the reality of the product. Many viewers approach wrestling with the expectation that it is a competitive sport, akin to traditional forms of athletics. When they realize the outcomes are pre-determined, they may feel deceived. This reaction is different from the understanding audiences have of movies and TV shows, which are typically seen as fictional narratives.

Cultural Perceptions

In the broader cultural context, wrestling has often been viewed as a less serious form of entertainment compared to movies or television dramas. This perception contributes to the criticism, as some see it as lacking the artistic merit or seriousness of other storytelling mediums. However, the physical and emotional elements involved in WWE performances should not be overlooked.

Reality vs. Fiction

While movies and TV shows are generally accepted as fictional narratives, wrestling often blurs the lines between reality and performance. The portrayal of wrestlers as larger-than-life characters can sometimes lead to confusion among viewers about the reality of their injuries and experiences. The audience may not realize that the violence displayed on WWE matches is not entirely fake, as many wrestlers experience real, painful injuries during these performances.

Wrestling as a Real Show

WWE is a real show where wrestlers genuinely put their bodies on the line. The perceived violence in WWE is not completely fictional. The canvas, which wrestlers fall on, is designed to mimic the impact of falling on concrete, and the physical toll of these falls can be severe. Many wrestlers suffer from neck and spinal cord damage, torn ligaments, separated shoulders, fractured ankles, knee replacements, and hip replacements as a result of their performances. These are real injuries, not just a part of a scripted narrative.

Conclusion

In summary, while both WWE and movies are forms of scripted entertainment, the expectations and cultural perceptions surrounding them differ significantly. The criticism of WWE for being "fake" is rooted in a misunderstanding of the nature of professional wrestling. It is essential to recognize the physical realities and the true cost of this form of entertainment. The next time someone tells you that WWE is fake, you can counter with the knowledge that it is no more (if not more) fake than the movies that they enjoy in theaters or on television.

Key Points: WWE, scripted, reality, criticism, scripted entertainment