6 Crazy Wrestling Revelations That Were Confirmed Under Oath
1. Wrestling's Not Real
Vince McMahon was already a grim reaper of sorts according the few promoters still in business at the tail-end of his emphatic 1980s charge through their time-honoured territories, but their belief that a crucial New Jersey Senate comment in February 1989 heaped more dirt on their descending coffins in fact reflected how out of touch they'd gradually become.
It was in this documented discussion that he 'confessed' that his product was pre-determined. McMahon committed to record that the industry was "an activity in which participants struggle hand-in-hand primarily for the purpose of providing entertainment to spectators rather than conducting a bona fide athletic contest."
And he only lifted the lid to save a few quid.
The revelation was part of a successful campaign from Vince and wife Linda to have wrestling deregulated by the state's sports commission. It saved them having to go to the trouble of acquiring medical clearance and various legal registration for the talent, and reduced fees and taxes on venues levied at other 'sports'. Whilst only confirming suspicions rather than confounding consumers, it was still considered the latest watershed moment in the history of an industry that had changed beyond all recognition over the prior decade.