Today on the 'Chronicles of a Middle Aged Wrestling Fan' we are going to delve into the Psychology of Wrestling and its reflection of society, as well as, its ability to use its nay sayers to help advertise the product. I will try to refrain from referencing past additions of the 'Chronicles', but if I do, please feel free to look them up.
REFLECTION OF SOCIETY
If you were to go back around 35 years and look at Wrestling, you would find out who the monsters in the world were. The Iron Sheik and the Koloff's were big time Heels as the 'Cold War' was ever present in the news. The Wrestling Business has always learned to use real time events to bolster the product. Jump ahead to the time when Nancy Kerrigan was attacked with a club. Wrestling's version was controversial but it got people to watch. Even today, the group known as 'Retribution' comes at a time when we are seeing unrest in our country. People are drawn to the drama of Wrestling because they can see things resolved in a timely manner. It may not always be perfect but it is progress. Wrestling has always been, and probably always will be, a mirror.
WRESTLING DENIERS
Let's take a moment to address the 'Haters', the supposed Grown ups who look down their nose at you when you discuss your fandom of the squared circle. Chances are you work with some or have some in your family. They think to make you feel 'lesser than' because you love to watch Wrestling. The Wrestling Business thrives because of people like these. A lot of you are like me in that when you are chastised for loving something, you love it more. The haters think to give you a wake up call or what I label the 'metro alpha reality check': 'You know Wrestling is fake, right?' They ask. They are right, but, so are TV Sitcoms, Reality Shows, Movies, and some of the News.
Take my advice. Don't be ashamed of your Fandom. It is yours and they can't take it from you!