Jake 'The Snake' Roberts, a wrestling legend and WWE Hall of Famer, has recently expressed his concerns about the state of professional wrestling, particularly in the American landscape. In a candid interview with Bill Apter at the 80sWrestling Con, Roberts shared his thoughts on the current state of the sport, offering a unique perspective that is both insightful and opinionated.
A Missing Element
One of the key points Roberts emphasized is the lack of characters in modern wrestling. He believes that the sport has become too reliant on high-flying moves, which he sees as a crutch rather than a core element of the art form. "They need to go back to simple wrestling, not so much high flying," he stated. This sentiment is particularly interesting given the current trend in wrestling, where high-flying moves and acrobatic displays have become a hallmark of many promotions.
Roberts' perspective is one that many fans of the older style of wrestling might share. He argues that while high-flying has its place, it should be used judiciously and when it truly enhances the storytelling. This is a nuanced view, as many fans today are drawn to the spectacle and excitement that high-flying moves bring.
A New 'It Guy'
When asked about WWE's Oba Femi, who has been praised for embodying the powerhouses of the past, Roberts revealed that he has not watched much wrestling recently. However, he was told that Femi is the new 'It Guy' in WWE. This raises a deeper question: Are there enough characters in WWE that resonate with fans, or is the company relying too heavily on high-flying moves and spectacle?
A Different Kind of Character
In AEW, Roberts has been primarily known as a manager for Lance Archer. However, he has also been praised for his mic skills, particularly in comparison to Maxwell Jacob Friedman. While Roberts welcomes the comparison, he also highlights the importance of character development and storytelling in wrestling. This is a subtle but significant point, as many fans often overlook the importance of a wrestler's character and how it contributes to the overall experience.
A Breath of Fresh Air
Roberts' praise for Tony Khan, the owner of AEW, is particularly noteworthy. He describes Khan as a breath of fresh air, which suggests that Roberts values the creative freedom and innovation that AEW has brought to the sport. This is a significant departure from the corporate structure of WWE, where creative control is often more centralized.
A Different Kind of Control
When asked what he would do if he were in charge of WWE, Roberts' blunt answer was to fire about half of the roster and keep only those who can actually wrestle. This is a controversial statement, but it highlights Roberts' belief in the importance of in-ring skills over spectacle. It also raises the question of whether WWE is prioritizing the right things in its talent development.
A Broader Perspective
Roberts' comments about AEW and WWE are not just about the current state of the sport, but also about the future. He believes that wrestling needs to return to its roots, focusing on simple, effective storytelling and in-ring skills. This is a call to action for the industry, suggesting that there is a need for a shift in priorities and a reevaluation of what makes a successful wrestler.
In conclusion, Jake 'The Snake' Roberts' comments are a fascinating insight into the world of professional wrestling. His perspective is one that is both critical and constructive, offering a unique angle on the state of the sport. While his views may not be universally shared, they are certainly thought-provoking and worth considering as wrestling continues to evolve and adapt to new trends and audiences.
