Ric Flair Slams Modern Wrestling’s Rehearsal Culture: That’s the Only Thing in the Business I Can’t Stand

One Big Thing

WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair strongly criticized the current trend of wrestlers rehearsing matches, stating on “The Five Star Podcast” that he never practiced during his career.

Key Details

• Flair emphasized his preference for calling matches in the ring
• He expressed concern about rehearsals limiting wrestlers’ ability to respond to crowd reactions
• Current part-time performers like Logan Paul and Shane McMahon are known for rehearsing spots

Direct Quote

“You can never guarantee how a crowd is going to react. You can have a match all set up to go this way, and you walk out the door, and the crowds are going, ‘I don’t think so. I don’t like you today; I like him.'”

Why It Matters

This debate highlights a fundamental shift in wrestling styles between different eras:

• Old school wrestlers relied on improvisation and crowd reaction
• Modern wrestling often features more choreographed, high-risk sequences
• The discussion raises questions about authenticity vs. spectacle in today’s product

By The Numbers

• Flair is a 16-time world champion
• His career spanned over 40 years
• He was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame twice (2008, 2012)

The Other Side

Some wrestling legends have criticized Flair’s style:

• Ted DiBiase noted Flair’s matches followed similar patterns
• Bret Hart initially questioned Flair’s in-ring ability
• Both eventually reconciled with Flair later in their careers

Looking Ahead

What do you think about the evolution of match preparation in professional wrestling? Share your thoughts in the comments below about whether you prefer the old-school approach or modern rehearsed style.