10 Things You Hate About Modern Wrestling (Thanks To The Attitude Era)

9. Modern Commentary

Attitude Era
WWE

For wrestling fans of a certain age group, Jim Ross and Jerry 'The King' Lawler are considered the gold standard in wrestling announce teams. While the pairing had more flaws than most will admit, they made for an enjoyable duo when Lawler toned down his crassness, with JR's iconic, impassioned calls enhancing many of Attitude's key moments.

Today's commentary often feels flat and lifeless by comparison. The announcers have their plus points, but they're reading from somebody else's script, and it shows. The likes of Michael Cole and Tom Phillips often sound like pre-programmed robots as they reel off buzzlines and marketing slogans, with Vince McMahon and Kevin Dunn screaming through their earpiece, directing their every word.

Cole in particular takes an absolute pounding from the critics. Much of the frustration comes from the simple fact that he's not peak JR, but the current environment makes it impossible to build another commentator like Ross.

It's a shame, because the UK Championship Tournament proved that Cole is a fine announcer when the shackles are off, but for as long as people are pining for the Attitude Era, he'll live in JR's shadow.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.