Seth Rollins Discusses Evolution of Toughness in Wrestling Generations
WWE Superstar Seth Rollins recently shared his insights on the shifting levels of toughness across different wrestling eras on “Outta Pocket with RGIII.” Rollins expressed his belief that each generation of wrestlers has gradually become less tough, attributing this change to the evolving nature of the industry.
Rollins noted that the current generation of wrestlers, including himself, operates in a safer environment compared to the past. He highlighted the significant risks and challenges faced by wrestlers in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, where concerns about physical altercations and real threats were prevalent.
Reflecting on the past, Rollins emphasized the lack of communication and the need to be prepared for potential confrontations in the ring. Wrestlers from earlier decades, according to Rollins, were trained to inflict real harm and often engaged in unscripted encounters due to the absence of pre-planned moves.
While acknowledging the toughness of previous performers, Rollins also pointed out the adverse effects of their coping mechanisms, such as excessive drinking and substance abuse, to endure the grueling lifestyle of being on the road constantly. He highlighted the lack of modern recovery methods that contribute to the health challenges faced by many wrestlers from that era.
Rollins underscored the transformation of wrestling from a chaotic environment into a more structured and health-conscious industry. He emphasized that current wrestlers benefit from advanced knowledge of injury prevention, rehabilitation, and overall well-being, reducing the need for the extreme toughness exhibited by past generations.
In conclusion, Rollins recognized the shift towards a more professional and informed wrestling landscape, where wrestlers have access to resources and support systems that were not available in the past. This evolution, he believes, has changed the expectations of toughness in wrestling, making it less about surviving the brutality and more about sustainable performance and longevity.