Bully Ray Takes Stand Against Dave Meltzer’s Five-Star Match Ratings System

One Big Thing

Former WWE and ECW star Bully Ray sparked debate by challenging Dave Meltzer’s influence on wrestling match ratings during “Busted Open Radio.”

Key Details

• The discussion started on “Busted Open Radio: The Masterclass” and continued on social media
• Bully Ray argues that match ratings are purely subjective
• Meltzer defended his system, initially interpreting the criticism as an AEW-focused attack

Direct Quote

I don’t believe anybody should put a match rating on, because it’s all subjective,” Bully Ray stated on Busted Open Radio.

Why It Matters

The five-star rating system has become a significant measuring stick in professional wrestling, influencing:

• Fan expectations for match quality
• Wrestler performance standards
• Industry-wide discussions about match excellence

By The Numbers

• Meltzer has been rating matches since the 1980s
• The system has expanded to include matches rated above five stars
• Thousands of matches have been rated using this scale

The Bottom Line

This debate highlights the ongoing tension between subjective fan enjoyment and standardized rating systems in professional wrestling.

What’s Next?

What do you think about match rating systems? Should wrestling matches be rated at all? Share your thoughts in the comments below.