Fact Check: Is wrestling fake?

Fact Check: Is wrestling fake?

Published July 2, 2025
by TruthOrFake
VERDICT
Mostly True

# Is Wrestling Fake? The claim that "wrestling is fake" refers to the nature of professional wrestling, particularly in organizations like WWE (World...

Is Wrestling Fake?

The claim that "wrestling is fake" refers to the nature of professional wrestling, particularly in organizations like WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment), where matches are choreographed and outcomes predetermined. This assertion raises questions about the authenticity of the sport and the extent to which it can be classified as a legitimate athletic competition.

What We Know

  1. Choreographed Performances: Professional wrestling matches are primarily scripted, with predetermined outcomes. This has been acknowledged by various sources, including a piece from Clocktower which states that professional wrestling is more akin to choreographed performances than legitimate contests [1].

  2. Scripted Storylines: According to Wikipedia, professional wrestling is governed by scripts and overarching storylines created by producers, who are often former professional wrestlers themselves [2]. This scripting is integral to the entertainment aspect of wrestling, which combines athleticism with theatrical performance.

  3. Acknowledgment of Scripted Nature: An article from Sports Illustrated confirms that the winners and losers of wrestling matches are determined prior to the events, emphasizing that the matches are fixed [3]. This aligns with statements made by WWE's owner, Vince McMahon, who publicly acknowledged the scripted nature of wrestling in 1989 to avoid tax implications related to athletic commissions [6].

  4. Public Perception: An article from ABC News features insights from a professional wrestler who explains that while the outcomes are predetermined, the physicality involved is real, and wrestlers often sustain injuries [4]. This highlights the dual nature of wrestling as both scripted entertainment and a physically demanding performance.

  5. Entertainment vs. Sport: The distinction between wrestling as entertainment and as a sport is crucial. While the matches are not competitive in the traditional sense, the athletic skills displayed by wrestlers are genuine, and the performances require significant training and physical prowess [6].

Analysis

The claim that wrestling is "fake" can be misleading without proper context. While it is true that the outcomes of matches are predetermined and the performances are scripted, this does not negate the athleticism and risk involved in the sport.

Source Reliability

  • Clocktower: This source provides a straightforward analysis of professional wrestling, but it is essential to consider its potential bias as a publication focused on entertainment rather than sports journalism [1].

  • Wikipedia: While generally a reliable starting point for information, Wikipedia articles can be edited by anyone, which raises questions about the accuracy of specific claims unless they are backed by credible references [2].

  • Sports Illustrated: This source is a well-respected sports publication, and its claims about the scripted nature of wrestling are likely credible, given the publication's reputation for fact-checking [3].

  • ABC News: This article features firsthand insights from a professional wrestler, which adds a layer of authenticity to the discussion. However, personal anecdotes can be subjective and may not represent the broader industry [4].

  • The Cinemaholic: This source discusses the scripted nature of WWE and references Vince McMahon's acknowledgment of this fact, which adds credibility to its claims [6]. However, it is essential to consider the potential for bias, as this site may cater to fans of wrestling.

Conflicts of Interest

While many sources provide valuable insights, it's important to note that some may have a vested interest in portraying wrestling in a specific light, either to promote the entertainment value or to critique it as a sport. For instance, articles from wrestling forums may be influenced by fan biases, which could skew their perspectives.

Methodology and Evidence

The evidence supporting the claim that wrestling is "fake" primarily relies on the acknowledgment of scripted outcomes and choreographed performances. However, further investigation into the physical toll on wrestlers and the nuances of their performances would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the sport.

What Additional Information Would Be Helpful?

To further evaluate the claim, additional information that could be beneficial includes:

  • Interviews with a broader range of professional wrestlers discussing their experiences and perspectives on the scripted nature of their performances.
  • Studies or reports analyzing the physical injuries sustained by wrestlers, which would highlight the real risks involved in the sport.
  • Historical context regarding the evolution of professional wrestling and how public perceptions have changed over time.

Conclusion

Verdict: Mostly True

The assertion that "wrestling is fake" is mostly true when considering the scripted nature of professional wrestling, where outcomes are predetermined and performances are choreographed. Key evidence supporting this verdict includes the acknowledgment from reputable sources, such as Sports Illustrated and statements from industry figures like Vince McMahon, confirming the scripted aspect of wrestling.

However, it is essential to recognize the nuance in this claim. While the matches are not competitive in the traditional sense, the physicality and athleticism displayed by wrestlers are very real, and they often face significant risks and injuries during performances.

The limitations of available evidence should also be acknowledged. The sources consulted vary in reliability and potential bias, and personal anecdotes may not fully represent the broader industry. Therefore, while the claim holds substantial truth, it is important for readers to consider the complexities involved in professional wrestling.

Readers are encouraged to critically evaluate information and consider multiple perspectives when forming their own conclusions about the nature of professional wrestling.

Sources

  1. Pro wrestling: Fake sport or real entertainment? (https://clocktower.ucollege.edu/articles/2022/pro-wrestling-fake-sport-or-real-entertainment)
  2. Professional wrestling (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Professional_wrestling)
  3. Is WWE Fake? The Truth Behind Wrestling's Scripted Drama And Real Dangers (https://www.si.com/fannation/wrestling/is-wwe-fake)
  4. It's all fake, right? A professional wrestler explains everything (https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-04/its-all-fake-right-a-professional-wrestler-explains-everything/9010474)
  5. Tuttowrestling Forum - Indice (https://forum.tuttowrestling.com/)
  6. Is WWE Scripted? Is WWE Fake, Improvised or Real? (https://thecinemaholic.com/is-wwe-real-or-scripted/)

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Fact Check: Is wrestling fake? | TruthOrFake Blog