Pro Wrestling 101: A Beginner's Guide to Wrestling Terminology

Pro Wrestling 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Wrestling Terminology

Are you a newcomer to the exciting world of pro wrestling? If so, you may find yourself overwhelmed by the unique language and terminology used in this action-packed sport. Fear not! Our comprehensive beginner’s guide to wrestling terminology is here to help you navigate through the ropes and understand the ins and outs of this thrilling form of entertainment. From common terms like "pinfall" and "submission" to more intricate concepts like "heel" and "face," we have got you covered. So, whether you are a die-hard fan looking to deepen your knowledge or a curious newcomer wanting to dip your toe into the world of pro wrestling, this guide is your ultimate resource. Let’s dive in and unravel the secrets of pro wrestling together!

What is Pro Wrestling?

The history of pro wrestling

Pro wrestling, also known as professional wrestling, is a form of sports entertainment that combines athleticism, storytelling, and theatrical performances. Its origins can be traced back to ancient times, where various forms of wrestling were practiced as a means of competition and entertainment.

The modern form of pro wrestling gained popularity in the late 19th century, primarily in North America and Europe. It started as a legitimate sport with real competitions, but over time, it evolved into a scripted and choreographed form of entertainment.

Different styles of pro wrestling

Pro wrestling encompasses a wide range of styles that cater to different audiences and preferences. Some of the most popular styles include:

American Pro Wrestling: This style is characterized by its emphasis on storytelling, larger-than-life characters, and high-impact moves. It often features dramatic storylines, rivalries, and extravagant costumes.
Lucha Libre: Originating from Mexico, Lucha Libre is known for its high-flying acrobatics, fast-paced action, and colorful masks. Wrestlers in this style frequently perform impressive aerial maneuvers and incorporate elements of showmanship into their matches.
Japanese Puroresu: Puroresu is a Japanese style of pro wrestling that focuses on hard-hitting strikes, technical wrestling, and submission holds. Matches in this style often prioritize athleticism and the display of skill.
British Catch Wrestling: Catch wrestling, also known as British wrestling, emphasizes a combination of technical wrestling holds and submissions. It has a more grounded and realistic approach compared to other styles.
Lucha Underground: Lucha Underground is a unique blend of Lucha Libre and American pro wrestling. It combines the high-flying action of Lucha Libre with the dramatic storytelling and production values of American wrestling.

These are just a few examples of the diverse styles of pro wrestling that exist today. Each style brings its own unique flavor and attracts a dedicated fan base.

In conclusion, pro wrestling is a captivating form of sports entertainment that has a rich history and encompasses various styles. Whether you prefer the dramatic storytelling of American pro wrestling or the high-flying acrobatics of Lucha Libre, there is something for everyone in the world of pro wrestling.

Common Wrestling Terms

Face and Heel

In the world of professional wrestling, the terms "face" and "heel" are used to describe the two main character roles played by wrestlers. A "face" refers to a wrestler who is portrayed as a heroic or good guy character. They are typically cheered on by the audience and are often involved in storylines where they fight against the "heels."

On the other hand, a "heel" is a wrestler who plays the role of a villain or a bad guy character. They are usually booed by the audience and are involved in storylines where they antagonize the faces. The dynamic between faces and heels creates the drama and excitement that keeps wrestling fans engaged.

Kayfabe

Kayfabe is a term used to describe the portrayal of events and storylines within the wrestling industry as real, even though they may be scripted or staged. It refers to the act of maintaining the illusion that wrestling matches and rivalries are genuine competitions and not pre-determined. This term is used to uphold the suspension of disbelief for the audience and adds to the overall entertainment value of professional wrestling.

Gimmick

A gimmick in professional wrestling refers to the persona, character, or personality adopted by a wrestler. It is essentially the unique selling point that sets a wrestler apart from others. Gimmicks can range from being based on real-life personas or fictional characters to exaggerated versions of the wrestler’s own personality traits. A well-developed gimmick can help a wrestler connect with the audience and leave a lasting impression.

Promotion

In the context of wrestling, a promotion refers to a company or organization that puts on wrestling events. These promotions can range from large, internationally recognized companies like WWE to smaller regional or independent promotions. Each promotion has its own roster of wrestlers, storylines, and style of wrestling. Promotions are responsible for organizing and promoting wrestling events, managing talent, and creating engaging content for the audience.

Match Types

Professional wrestling offers a wide variety of match types, each with its own rules and objectives. Some common match types include:

Singles Match: A one-on-one match between two wrestlers.
Tag Team Match: A match where two teams of two wrestlers each compete against each other.
Triple Threat Match: A match involving three wrestlers, where the first wrestler to score a pinfall or submission wins.
Battle Royal: A match featuring a large number of wrestlers, where the objective is to eliminate opponents by throwing them over the top rope.
Steel Cage Match: A match that takes place inside a steel cage, with the objective of escaping the cage to win.

These are just a few examples of the many match types that exist in professional wrestling. Each match type offers its own unique dynamics and excitement, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.

By understanding these common wrestling terms, beginners can dive into the world of professional wrestling with a better grasp of the language and concepts that make this form of entertainment so thrilling.

Basic Wrestling Moves

Lock-ups and holds

Lock-ups and holds are fundamental techniques in pro wrestling. These moves involve wrestlers grappling with each other to gain control or maintain a certain position during a match. Here are a few common lock-ups and holds used in wrestling:

Collar and Elbow Tie-up: This is the most traditional lock-up where wrestlers grab each other’s collars and elbows to start a match. It is used to test strength and establish dominance.
Headlock: In this move, a wrestler wraps their arm around their opponent’s head, applying pressure on the neck and head. It restricts the opponent’s movement and can be used to wear them down or set up other maneuvers.
Wrist Lock: This hold involves bending the opponent’s wrist, applying pressure to the joint. It can be used to control the opponent’s arm or set up various moves.

Strikes and kicks

Strikes and kicks are essential moves in wrestling that add an element of intensity and excitement to a match. These moves are used to inflict damage, wear down the opponent, or create opportunities for other maneuvers. Here are some common strikes and kicks used in wrestling:

Punches: A wrestler can deliver punches using closed fists to target the opponent’s head, body, or limbs. These strikes are often used to stun or disorient the opponent.
Forearm Smash: This move involves striking the opponent’s face or upper body with the forearm. It can be executed with great force to knock down or weaken the opponent.
Knee Strikes: Wrestlers can use their knees to strike the opponent’s abdomen, chest, or head. These strikes are powerful and can cause significant damage if executed correctly.

Slams and suplexes

Slams and suplexes are dynamic moves that involve lifting and forcefully slamming the opponent onto the mat. These moves not only showcase a wrestler’s strength but also create impactful moments during a match. Here are a few common slams and suplexes in wrestling:

Body Slam: This move involves lifting the opponent off the ground and slamming them onto their back. It can be executed from various positions and heights, showcasing the wrestler’s power.
Suplex: A suplex is a throw that involves lifting the opponent off the ground and falling backward or sideways to slam them onto their back. There are several variations of suplexes, such as vertical suplex, belly-to-back suplex, and German suplex.

Submission holds

Submission holds are techniques used to force an opponent to submit or surrender by applying pressure on their joints or restricting their breathing. These moves can be highly effective in wearing down an opponent or turning the tide of a match. Here are some common submission holds used in wrestling:

Figure-Four Leglock: This classic submission hold targets the opponent’s legs. The wrestler wraps their legs around one of the opponent’s legs and applies pressure by crossing their legs, causing immense pain and potential damage to the knee and ankle joints.
Sleeper Hold: The sleeper hold is a submission maneuver that restricts the opponent’s airflow, causing them to lose consciousness if not released. It involves wrapping an arm around the opponent’s neck and applying pressure with the other arm.

High-flying moves

High-flying moves are crowd-pleasing maneuvers that involve wrestlers executing aerial acrobatics and jumps to attack or counter their opponents. These moves often involve risk and agility, showcasing the athleticism of the performers. Here are some high-flying moves commonly seen in wrestling:

Moonsault: The moonsault is a spectacular move where a wrestler leaps backward from an elevated position, performing a mid-air rotation, and landing on their opponent. It is a visually stunning move that can be executed from the top turnbuckle or other elevated platforms.
Dropkick: A dropkick involves a wrestler jumping into the air and kicking both legs forward to strike the opponent with their feet. It is a versatile move that can be executed from various angles and heights.
Suicide Dive: This move involves a wrestler diving through the ropes, usually targeting an opponent outside the ring. It is a high-risk move that requires precision and timing to avoid injury.

These basic wrestling moves form the foundation of pro wrestling, providing a wide range of techniques for wrestlers to display their skills and entertain the audience.

Famous Wrestlers

All-time greats

Hulk Hogan: One of the most iconic figures in wrestling history, Hulk Hogan dominated the wrestling scene during the 1980s and 1990s. Known for his charismatic personality and unmatched strength, Hogan became a household name and played a crucial role in popularizing professional wrestling worldwide.
The Rock: Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson transitioned from a successful wrestling career to become a Hollywood superstar. With his electrifying promos and exceptional in-ring skills, The Rock captivated audiences and achieved tremendous success both inside and outside the wrestling ring.
Stone Cold Steve Austin: Known for his rebellious persona, Stone Cold Steve Austin was a major player during the late 1990s and early 2000s. His intense rivalries, unpredictable nature, and catchphrases such as "Austin 3:16" made him a fan favorite and a symbol of the Attitude Era.

Current top stars

John Cena: With his incredible work ethic and dedication, John Cena has become one of the most recognizable faces in professional wrestling. Holding numerous championships, Cena has consistently delivered electrifying performances, captivating fans of all ages.
Roman Reigns: As a member of the famous Anoa’i wrestling family, Roman Reigns has established himself as a dominant force in the current wrestling landscape. Known for his athleticism and powerful spear, Reigns has headlined multiple WrestleMania events and is widely regarded as one of the top stars of his generation.
Becky Lynch: Becky Lynch broke barriers and became a trailblazer for women’s wrestling. With her fiery personality and in-ring skills, Lynch captured the hearts of fans worldwide, ultimately becoming the first-ever WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion and a symbol of women’s empowerment in the wrestling industry.

Legendary rivalries

The Rock vs. Stone Cold Steve Austin: The rivalry between The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin defined the Attitude Era and produced some of the most memorable matches and moments in wrestling history. Their contrasting personalities and clashes for the WWE Championship created an intense and captivating narrative that kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Hulk Hogan vs. "Macho Man" Randy Savage: Hulk Hogan and Randy Savage’s rivalry during the 1980s and 1990s showcased their immense talents and larger-than-life personalities. Their battles for the WWE Championship and personal vendettas created an emotional storyline that captivated fans around the globe.
The Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels: The Undertaker and Shawn Michaels’ legendary rivalry spanned several WrestleMania events and produced some of the most unforgettable matches in wrestling history. With their contrasting styles and incredible in-ring chemistry, their encounters became must-see spectacles, forever etching their names in wrestling folklore.

Note: This supporting content provides a brief overview of famous wrestlers, including all-time greats, current top stars, and legendary rivalries.

Behind the Scenes

Booking and Storylines

In the world of professional wrestling, booking refers to the process of planning and organizing matches, storylines, and character developments. It involves deciding who will win or lose a match, how the storylines will progress, and how the wrestlers’ characters will evolve over time.

Bookers, also known as creative or writing teams, are responsible for coming up with compelling storylines that captivate the audience and keep them engaged. They work closely with the wrestlers to understand their strengths, weaknesses, and persona, ensuring that the storylines align with their characters.

The booking process starts with brainstorming ideas and then developing a long-term plan known as a "booking schedule" or "card." This schedule outlines the matches and storylines for upcoming events, often spanning weeks or even months. It allows the creative team to build anticipation and create exciting moments for the fans.

Throughout the process, bookers also take into account various factors such as audience reactions, fan favorites, and ongoing rivalries. They strive to create a balance between predictable outcomes and surprising twists to keep the audience invested in the product.

Training and Development

Professional wrestling requires a unique combination of athleticism, showmanship, and storytelling skills. Aspiring wrestlers undergo rigorous training and development to master the craft and ensure their safety in the ring.

Training schools, often run by experienced wrestlers, provide a structured curriculum that covers a range of skills. These include in-ring techniques, such as grappling, high-flying moves, and strikes, as well as mic skills, character development, and improvisation.

Physical conditioning is also a crucial aspect of training, as wrestlers need to maintain peak performance and endure the demanding nature of the sport. Training sessions typically involve strength and endurance exercises, cardio workouts, and flexibility training.

Additionally, aspiring wrestlers learn about the psychology of wrestling, understanding how to connect with the audience and evoke emotions through their performances. They study past matches, analyze different wrestling styles, and develop their own unique persona to stand out in the competitive industry.

Training and development is an ongoing process for professional wrestlers. Even established wrestlers continue to refine their skills and adapt to the evolving trends in the industry to stay relevant and maintain their success.

Business Aspects

Behind the glitz and glamour of the wrestling world, there are several critical business aspects that contribute to the success of professional wrestling promotions.

Promotion management involves overseeing various aspects, such as event scheduling, venue selection, marketing, and ticket sales. Promoters work tirelessly to create a buzz around their events, attract a large audience, and ensure a profitable venture.

Financial management is crucial for wrestling promotions to survive and thrive. It involves budgeting for events, paying wrestlers and staff, managing merchandise sales, and negotiating sponsorships and television deals. It requires careful planning and decision-making to strike a balance between revenue generation and expenses.

Wrestlers themselves often function as independent contractors, negotiating contracts with promotions and earning a percentage of ticket sales or merchandise revenue. They must also manage their personal branding, social media presence, and merchandise sales to enhance their popularity and financial stability.

Legal and regulatory considerations also play a role in the wrestling business. Promotions need to ensure compliance with various laws, such as licensing requirements, safety regulations, and intellectual property rights. Wrestlers must also prioritize their health and safety, and promotions are responsible for providing a safe working environment.

Understanding these business aspects is crucial for aspiring wrestlers, promoters, and fans alike. It sheds light on the behind-the-scenes operations and the intricate web of decisions and strategies that contribute to the overall success of the wrestling industry.

In conclusion, this beginner’s guide to wrestling terminology has provided an essential foundation for anyone interested in understanding the world of pro wrestling. By familiarizing themselves with key terms such as kayfabe, face, heel, and high spots, readers are now equipped to appreciate the artistry and storytelling behind this unique form of entertainment. Whether you’re a newcomer to the sport or a seasoned fan looking to deepen your knowledge, this article has offered a comprehensive overview of the terminology used in pro wrestling, serving as a valuable resource for all. So, grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the thrilling world of pro wrestling with a newfound understanding of its language and lingo.