When Was Wrestling Real?

Professional wrestling is a form of entertainment that has captured the hearts of millions around the world. From the high-flying acrobatics to the dramatic storylines, it’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement of watching these larger-than-life athletes battle it out in the ring. But amidst all the spectacle and showmanship, there’s one question that has been asked time and time again: when was wrestling real?

The Early Days

In its earliest form, professional wrestling can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece. These early contests were often brutal and unscripted, with competitors using various techniques to gain an advantage over their opponents. While these matches were certainly physical, they lacked the predetermined outcomes that we associate with modern professional wrestling.

It wasn’t until the late 19th century that wrestling began to evolve into a more structured and theatrical form of entertainment. Promoters saw an opportunity to draw larger crowds by incorporating elements of drama and storytelling into matches.

This marked the birth of what would eventually become known as “professional wrestling. “

The Kayfabe Era

During the early 20th century, professional wrestling underwent a major transformation with the introduction of “kayfabe.” Kayfabe refers to the practice of presenting professional wrestling as a legitimate athletic competition rather than scripted entertainment. This meant that wrestlers would maintain their characters both inside and outside of the ring, creating an illusion that everything happening in the squared circle was real.

Kayfabe was meticulously upheld by promoters and wrestlers alike. Matches were carefully choreographed to tell compelling stories, with wrestlers executing carefully planned moves and maneuvers designed to entertain audiences while still maintaining the illusion of authenticity.

The Montreal Screwjob

One of the most infamous incidents in professional wrestling history that challenged the notion of wrestling’s authenticity was the “Montreal Screwjob” in 1997. During a match between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels, Hart was scheduled to lose his championship title to Michaels. However, unbeknownst to Hart, a controversial decision was made by Vince McMahon, the owner of WWE (formerly WWF), to have Hart lose the match via submission without his knowledge or consent.

This incident exposed the behind-the-scenes workings of professional wrestling and shattered the illusion of kayfabe for many fans. It marked a turning point in how wrestling was perceived, with audiences becoming more aware of the predetermined nature of matches.

The Modern Era

Today, professional wrestling is openly acknowledged as scripted entertainment. While the outcomes may be predetermined, this hasn’t diminished its popularity. In fact, it has allowed for even more elaborate storytelling and increasingly athletic performances.

Wrestlers now have the freedom to create intricate characters and storylines that captivate audiences.
High-risk maneuvers and stunts have become commonplace, pushing the boundaries of what is physically possible in the ring.
Wrestling promotions have expanded globally, reaching new audiences and creating a worldwide phenomenon.

While wrestling may no longer be presented as a legitimate sport, its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to entertain and captivate audiences across generations.

In Conclusion

So, when was wrestling real? The answer lies in its evolution from ancient contests to staged spectacles. While there may have been moments throughout history where wrestlers genuinely competed with no predetermined outcomes, it is undeniable that professional wrestling has always been about entertaining audiences above all else.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or someone just discovering the world of professional wrestling, there’s no denying the impact it has had on popular culture. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!