What Are Death Matches in Wrestling?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Death matches in wrestling are a unique and intense form of professional wrestling that pushes the boundaries of physicality and endurance. These matches, also known as hardcore or extreme matches, are designed to provide a high level of excitement and thrill for both the wrestlers and the audience. In this article, we will explore what death matches entail, their history, and some of the most popular variations. What is a Death Match? A death match is a type of professional wrestling match that allows the use of various unconventional weapons and dangerous elements. Unlike traditional wrestling matches that focus on technical skill and athleticism, death matches prioritize violence, chaos, and extreme stunts. These matches often involve the use of barbed wire, glass panes, thumbtacks, fire, light tubes, and other objects that can cause significant pain and injury. The History of Death Matches The origins of death matches can be traced back to Japan in the late 1980s. Promotions like Frontier Martial-Arts Wrestling (FMW) popularized this style of wrestling by introducing innovative match types such as “exploding barbed wire deathmatches” and “no-rope electrified barbed wire explosive time bomb deathmatches. These unique concepts quickly gained attention from fans around the world. Inspired by FMW’s success, other promotions in Japan embraced death matches as well. Big Japan Pro Wrestling (BJW), Combat Zone Wrestling (CZW) in the United States, and IWA Mid-South are some notable examples. Each promotion added its own twist to these matches by introducing new weapons or modifying existing ones. Popular Variations There are several popular variations of death matches that have become staples in professional wrestling: No Holds Barred: This variation allows wrestlers to use any object or weapon they can find. It often leads to chaotic and unpredictable encounters. Barbed Wire Deathmatch: In this match, the ring ropes are replaced with barbed wire, adding an element of danger and intensity. Wrestlers can be thrown into the barbed wire or use it as a weapon against their opponents. Glass Match: Glass panes are used as a weapon in this match. Wrestlers are often slammed or thrown onto the glass, resulting in shards flying everywhere. Cage of Death: This match takes place inside a steel cage, usually filled with various weapons and objects. The goal is to escape the cage while inflicting maximum damage on opponents. In addition to these variations, there are countless other unique death match concepts that have been created over the years. From electrified cages to fire-based matches, promoters continuously strive to create new and innovative ways to shock and excite the audience. The Appeal of Death Matches Despite their extreme nature, death matches have a dedicated fan base who appreciate the raw intensity and risk involved. These matches provide a thrilling spectacle that pushes the boundaries of what is traditionally considered acceptable in professional wrestling. The wrestlers who participate in death matches are often revered for their willingness to endure pain and put their bodies on the line for entertainment. Their dedication and fearlessness make them stand out among their peers. It’s important to note that death matches should always be performed by trained professionals in controlled environments. The use of weapons should never be attempted outside of professional wrestling settings. In Conclusion Death matches in wrestling offer a unique blend of excitement, danger, and spectacle. With their unconventional weapons and intense stunts, these matches have carved out a niche in the world of professional wrestling. Whether you love them or hate them, death matches continue to captivate audiences and push the limits of what is possible in this form of entertainment.
