WWE Needs To Break THIS Habit Of A Lifetime

Johnny Gargano Adam Cole NXT TakeOver XXV
WWE

Some might argue that a faster pace inhibits psychology—the dreaded “They are just spot monkeys” response. Just listen to the oscillating underdog roar of Korakuen Hall. Listen to the molten crowds during virtually every electric TakeOver main event. Picture the graduating, roaring comeback from the dead sell; if worked intelligently enough, all that incredible punishment informs the transition in the drama. It doesn’t peak.

Psychology in wrestling can be tied to logic, if the crowd appreciates logic, but broadly, the best psychologists are those with the ability to generate the loudest, sustained reaction to their work.

What does that say about WWE’s ability to manipulate its audience in 2019?

In addition to the constant recaps, the exposition, and Boss Time Big Dog marketing onslaught, the general match layout borders on insulting the intelligence of its audience. The babyface is in a rest hold, and we need to cheer them on to help them escape. The people have grasped this by now. They are all too aware of it.

TL;DR; WWE badly needs to embrace the banger. This isn’t as simple or as misguided as ‘New Japan does it!’, or ‘NXT does it!’. Or perhaps it is.

CONT'D...(4 of 5)

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Contributor
Contributor

Michael Sidgwick is an editor, writer and podcaster for WhatCulture Wrestling. With over seven years of experience in wrestling analysis, Michael was published in the influential institution that was Power Slam magazine, and specialises in providing insights into All Elite Wrestling - so much so that he wrote a book about the subject. You can order Becoming All Elite: The Rise Of AEW on Amazon. Possessing a deep knowledge also of WWE, WCW, ECW and New Japan Pro Wrestling, Michael’s work has been publicly praised by former AEW World Champions Kenny Omega and MJF, and current Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. When he isn’t putting your finger on why things are the way they are in the endlessly fascinating world of professional wrestling, Michael wraps his own around a hand grinder to explore the world of specialty coffee. Follow Michael on X (formerly known as Twitter) @MSidgwick for more!