The subject of high-risk maneuvers in wrestling and their actual contribution to matches has been a topic of vigorous discussion among fans and insiders alike. TJ Wilson, former WWE wrestler, and current backstage producer, recently expressed his thoughts on the matter, bringing a perspective steeped in professional experience.
He clarified that while he comprehends the performers' inclination towards employing such 'crazy moves' to garner attention, he places a higher value on the art of 'crisp wrestling.'
Wilson Sympathizes with Performers' Risks
With a tone marked by empathy and understanding, Wilson acknowledged the pressures performers face in an industry that often equates novelty and risk with success.
He justified the spectacle of moves like the shooting star press or even more extreme acts, using Jack Evans' expertise with a 630 as an illustration. He admits had he not secured his WWE contract when he did; he might have been drawn down a similar path, always seeking to get noticed.
Yet, Wilson maintains that while these breathtaking feats may captivate audiences and quickly spread virally, they're not the linchpin of a successful match. "These crazy moves, they're awesome, and they'll go viral," he said, "But they don't make a match." He emphasized that while these high-risk elements are exciting additions to a match, they should always maintain the fundamentals.
He cautioned that such maneuvers, if not executed correctly every time, could pose significant risks to the performer and their opponent. The backbone of Wilson's philosophy lies in the essence of wrestling itself: its intensity and the precision of execution, which he refers to as 'crisp wrestling.'
His preference lies in seeing a perfect technique and power over the spectacle of a high-risk move executed with less-than-ideal precision. "I'd rather see the intensity and crisp wrestling versus crazy stuff that's maybe not done 10/10," he stated.
Nonetheless, Wilson doesn't entirely discount the 'crazy moves,' acknowledging their value when executed flawlessly. His final words serve as a reminder that while these high-risk maneuvers can indeed be eye-catching, they are not the traditional elements of a successful match, or career, for that matter.
This perspective from an industry insider challenges us to reassess the value we place on spectacle over skill in the wrestling world.