10 Things Wrestling Needs To Ban RIGHT NOW
1. Non-Consensual Kissing Spots
Now obviously, there is no such thing in the predetermined, fictional context of pro wrestling. Talents who agree to be kissed in a worked non-consensual kissing spot have by definition consented to it as part of the performance.
They are acting. They are acting on a scripted entertainment show. They often act alongside close friends.
Professional wrestling is not real.
Still, professional wrestling is meant to function as a silly escape from the horrors of the real world. Sexual misconduct, sadly, is rife; if you yourself are lucky enough not to have your own story, it is statistically inevitable that you know somebody who does. This spot - which Jon Moxley and Toni Storm have performed in recent weeks and years - is a needlessly triggering act that does nothing to enhance the drama or entertainment value of a match.
Other than titillating some unpleasant people who, terrifyingly, are unaware of the difference, it is valueless. The spot risks upsetting people who have been placed in similar situations.
Dustin Rhodes did it to Jake Hager's wife at AEW Revolution 2020 years after Ric Flair was excoriated for doing it to Becky Lynch.
It's revolting, and while it shouldn't take something like the Vince McMahon scandal to put it in the bin, there is no better time to think about the effects.