Why Do So Many People HATE WWE?

Wrestling has always been a topic of discussion and controversy, but it is particularly contentious when it comes to WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). Many fans and critics alike express their dissatisfaction with the promotion, leading to a significant amount of hate toward WWE. In this essay, we will delve into the reasons behind this hate, focusing on issues with storytelling, WWE's evolution, and the unique nature of the product it offers.

The Evolution of WWE

The evolution of WWE from athletic exhibitions to a form of entertainment has alienated many longtime fans. The transition from disparate regional wrestling promotions (such as AWA) to WWE's centralized powerhouse has led to a significant shift in the way matches and storylines are presented. For many, WWE has moved away from the gritty and athletic nature of traditional wrestling, instead focusing on pop culture and entertainment.

Respect for the Sport

Wrestling is a sport, and it is important to respect the athleticism and risk involved. Many critics argue that WWE disregards this, rather than promoting it. Calling something a match if it is inherently fake and potentially dangerous is disrespectful to both the wrestlers and the fans. When wrestlers get injured, it is a serious issue, and the way WWE handles such incidents has been highly criticized.

Storytelling and Creative Direction

The creative direction under Vince McMahon has been a significant source of criticism. The period under the McMahon regime has been marked by a focus on entertainment over athletics. WWE has been criticized for its over-the-top storylines, lack of logic, and frequent inconsistencies. This has led to a perception of WWE as something more akin to reality TV than a legitimate athletic competition.

Persona Changes and Career Progression

WWE has been known for its rebranding of wrestlers, often changing their personas to align more with pop culture rather than their established on-ring personas. Some prominent examples include Triple H's rise to power, which was largely propelled by his marriage to Vince McMahon's daughter. This move was seen by many as a form of nepotism and has further fueled the perception that WWE is more about entertainment than genuine athleticism.

Promotion of Dishonesty

WWE's reluctance to be called a wrestling company is another major point of their matches as a form of sports entertainment rather than real wrestling has led to feelings of dishonesty among fans. WWE's deliberate efforts to distance itself from the term "wrestling" and present itself as a unique, special kind of sports has been met with significant backlash. Many feel that WWE is doing the exact opposite of what it should be doing—clarifying and respecting the nature of the sport.

Failure to Listen to Fans

WWE has also been criticized for its failure to genuinely listen to its fanbase. Despite claims of doing so, their actions often do not align with this rhetoric. WWE has been known to force upon fans content that they do not want or need. This has led to a significant amount of fanbase hatred, especially when it comes to long-term storylines and character developments.

Conclusion

It is important to understand that WWE's haters are not necessarily jettisoning the entire genre of wrestling. Rather, they are reacting to a company that they feel has strayed from the core principles of the sport it purportedly represents. WWE has evolved from its roots as a sporting event to a form of entertainment, which has alienated many long-time fans. The perception of WWE as false, disrespectful, and catering to a different set of values has contributed significantly to the criticism and hate it receives.

However, it is also worth noting that WWE has shown signs of improvement in recent years, both in terms of match quality and storytelling. Fans who may have left the promotion due to its evolution have returned, recognizing the value in the product. WWE has maintained a loyal fanbase, and there is a constant dialogue within the community about what WWE should be and what it should strive to achieve.

In conclusion, the hate towards WWE stems from a combination of perceived dishonesty, disrespect towards the sport, and a focus on entertainment over athleticism. Understanding these aspects is crucial to grasping the complex relationship between WWE and its audience.