What Are Professional Wrestling Called?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling Professional wrestling, also known as pro wrestling, is a form of entertainment that combines athletics and theatrical performance. It is characterized by highly skilled athletes performing choreographed matches in a ring. Pro wrestling has gained immense popularity over the years and has become a global phenomenon. Types of Professional Wrestling In the world of professional wrestling, there are two main types that are commonly recognized: Traditional Professional Wrestling: This type of wrestling follows a scripted storyline where wrestlers portray characters with predetermined outcomes. Matches are typically held in a ring and involve various techniques such as grappling, strikes, and high-flying maneuvers. Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Professional Wrestling: This style combines elements of traditional professional wrestling with the intensity and realism of mixed martial arts. Matches in MMA professional wrestling often feature more realistic fighting techniques and may include submission holds and ground-and-pound tactics. Key Terms Used in Professional Wrestling To fully appreciate professional wrestling, it’s important to understand some key terms used within the industry: Kayfabe: This term refers to the portrayal of events within the pro wrestling world as real, even though they are scripted. Wrestlers maintain their character both inside and outside the ring to maintain the illusion. Face (Babyface): A face is a wrestler who is portrayed as a hero or fan favorite. Faces often have a clean-cut image and display sportsmanship during their matches. Heel: A heel is a wrestler who plays the role of the villain or antagonist. Heels often use underhanded tactics, cheat, or show arrogance to generate heat from the audience. Work: In pro wrestling, a work refers to a planned or staged event. It can include anything from a pre-determined outcome to a scripted promo or storyline. Bump: A bump is the act of taking a fall or being thrown by an opponent. Wrestlers often practice extensively to ensure their bumps are executed safely and convincingly. Professional Wrestling Organizations Several professional wrestling organizations have emerged over the years, each with its own unique style and fan base. Some of the most notable organizations include: World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) The WWE is the largest and most well-known professional wrestling organization globally. It features a mix of both traditional professional wrestling and sports entertainment, captivating millions of viewers worldwide with its larger-than-life characters and storylines. New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) NJPW is a Japanese promotion known for its hard-hitting style and strong emphasis on athleticism. It showcases some of the best wrestlers from around the world, attracting fans with its high-quality matches and tournaments. All Elite Wrestling (AEW) AEW is a relatively new promotion that has quickly gained popularity as an alternative to WWE. It focuses on more realistic storytelling and in-ring action, providing fans with a fresh take on professional wrestling. In Conclusion Professional wrestling is more than just an athletic competition; it’s a form of entertainment that combines athleticism, storytelling, and showmanship. Whether you’re captivated by the larger-than-life characters or appreciate the physicality of the matches, pro wrestling continues to entertain audiences around the world.