Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Rasslin' Ain't Real.

Growing up in the 80's, not only was I a "Hulkamaniac", but also a "little Stinger." I had a blond flat top hair cut, and a set of bunk beds that served as the top rope. Looking back, I'm amazed that I didn't break any bones, performing flying elbow drops off of that thing.
Those were much simpler times. As a child, it was easy to believe the venom spewed into a microphone. Still a little intrigued by the "sport," I turn on Rasslin' every once in awhile. Unfortunately, few wrestlers today have the charisma of a Ric Flair, or the charm of the late Junkyard Dog.

Rasslin' ain't real. So what? It's pretty obvious, listening to the modern brawler talk. Only a handful of young guys have enough acting skills to make you believe their shtick. Established veterans, such as Kevin Nash, Steve "Sting" Borden, and the Dudley Boys are a dying breed. Not only are they skilled performers inside the "squared circle," but they are excellent at "selling the act," via the mic. Sadly, time is running out on the old guard. In recent years, we have seen legends, such as "Hollywood" Hogan and "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair fade off into retirement. The Rock moved on to starring in movies years ago, and Steve Austin ain't stunnin' no one, no more.

The younger generation of wrestlers has failed to master their craft. Yes, they can fly higher, and dive through tables, but most lack the mic skills needed to "sell the act." As a result, it is difficult to suspend reality, and believe in them. Especially, when you already know that rasslin' ain't real.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

GIVE THE THE YOUNG ONES TIME KID THEY WILL LEARN WITH YEARS UDRER THIER BELTS

Rob said...

James,
thanks for taking the time to post your opinion. I hope you're right, because I ain't too impressed with the younger generation. Pun not intended, they lack the total package.