What Was the Wrestling Called in the 80s?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling In the 1980s, professional wrestling reached new heights of popularity, captivating audiences across the globe. During this decade, the wrestling industry underwent significant changes, and various promotions emerged as powerhouses in the world of sports entertainment. Let’s take a closer look at what wrestling was like in the 80s. The Golden Age of Wrestling The 1980s is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of professional wrestling. This era saw the rise of larger-than-life characters and captivating storylines that resonated with fans. One promotion, in particular, dominated the scene: World Wrestling Federation (WWF) The WWF (now known as WWE) was at the forefront of wrestling during the 80s. Under the leadership of Vince McMahon Jr., this promotion revolutionized sports entertainment. The WWF introduced a mix of athleticism and showmanship that made wrestling more than just a sporting event—it became an immersive experience for fans. Hulk Hogan, one of the biggest icons in wrestling history, became the face of WWF in the 80s. With his charismatic personality and incredible strength, Hogan captured the hearts of millions around the world. His matches were unforgettable, and his catchphrase “Hulkamania” became synonymous with this era. Wrestling Styles Professional wrestling in the 80s encompassed various styles and techniques: Catch Wrestling: This style focused on grappling and submission holds. Wrestlers would use technical maneuvers to gain an advantage over their opponents. Lucha Libre: Originating from Mexico, Lucha Libre showcased high-flying acrobatics and fast-paced action. The masked wrestlers, known as luchadores, brought a unique flair to the ring. Strong Style: This style, popularized in Japan, emphasized hard-hitting strikes and powerful moves. Wrestlers would deliver stiff kicks and punches to create a sense of realism. The Importance of Managers In the 80s, wrestling managers played a crucial role in shaping storylines and adding drama to matches. These charismatic individuals accompanied wrestlers to the ring, often interfering in matches or providing a strategic advantage. Some notable managers from this era include: Bobby “The Brain” Heenan: Known for his quick wit and cunning tactics, Heenan managed several top-tier wrestlers during the 80s. Jimmy Hart: With his signature megaphone, Hart managed numerous wrestlers and was known for his flamboyant personality. Miss Elizabeth: Often seen alongside “Macho Man” Randy Savage, Miss Elizabeth provided a touch of elegance and acted as a calming influence on her wrestler. The Pay-Per-View Phenomenon In the 80s, pay-per-view events became instrumental in expanding the reach of professional wrestling. Promotions like WWF started hosting large-scale events that fans could watch from the comfort of their homes for a fee. WrestleMania, launched by the WWF in 1985, became an annual extravaganza that brought together wrestling’s biggest stars for a night of unforgettable action. The success of WrestleMania paved the way for other pay-per-view events, including SummerSlam and Survivor Series. In Conclusion The wrestling scene in the 80s was an extraordinary era that captured the imagination of millions. With its larger-than-life characters, captivating storylines, and innovative presentation, the industry reached unprecedented levels of popularity. Whether it was the powerhouse that was the WWF, the diverse wrestling styles, or the charismatic managers, the 80s left an indelible mark on professional wrestling.
