One big thing: The Undertaker cautions against over-reliance on athleticism in modern wrestling
WWE Hall of Famer The Undertaker expressed concern about the high-flying, video game-like style of today’s wrestlers during an appearance on Booker T’s “Hall of Fame” podcast.
• He praised the incredible athleticism of current WWE stars but warned it could be a “curse.”
• The Deadman emphasized the importance of storytelling over athletic feats.
• He voiced worry about the long-term health and career longevity of today’s performers.
Why it matters
The Undertaker’s comments highlight a growing debate in the wrestling industry about balancing spectacular athleticism with traditional storytelling and in-ring psychology.
By the numbers
• The Undertaker’s career spanned over 30 years in WWE.
• He retired in 2020 and was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2022.
What they’re saying
“I think because they are, they’re doing like, I don’t know if it’s because of the video games they played as kids, but they’re doing video game-type stuff in the ring,” The Undertaker said.
The big picture
The evolution of wrestling style has been a point of contention among veterans and current stars. While high-flying moves and fast-paced action draw crowds, there’s concern about:
• Increased injury risk
• Shorter career spans
• Diminished focus on storytelling and psychology
Between the lines
The Undertaker’s comments reflect a broader industry concern about sustainable performance styles and the long-term health of wrestlers.
What’s next
It remains to be seen how WWE and other promotions will balance the demand for spectacular athleticism with the need for wrestler longevity and storytelling depth.
What do you think about The Undertaker’s comments on modern wrestling style? Do you agree that there’s too much focus on athleticism, or do you enjoy the high-flying action? Leave a comment below with your thoughts!