45 
0 
Professional wrestling, or sports entertainment as it is often called, has been one of the most popular forms of entertainment for decades. The art of storytelling through simulated combat has garnered a massive following across the globe. While many fans see it as a thrilling combination of athleticism and drama, WWE Superstar Asuka recently made headlines by saying, “It sucks.” This bold statement brings attention to the inherent issues within the industry and sheds light on the need for change.
Asuka, known for her electrifying in-ring performances and charismatic character, made her frustrations known during a podcast interview. She expressed her discontentment with the direction of her career and the lack of creative opportunities she had been given. This honest and raw insight from a prominent wrestler like Asuka is reflective of a larger problem within the sports entertainment industry – the underutilization and mismanagement of talent.
The success of a professional wrestler is often determined by how they are booked, or in other words, the storylines and matches they are involved in. Unfortunately, the writing team behind these storylines doesn’t always give the wrestlers the creative freedom they deserve, resulting in repetitive or unimaginative character arcs. This cookie-cutter approach can hinder talented individuals like Asuka from reaching their full potential.
Moreover, the issue isn’t limited to WWE; it pervades the entirety of the industry. Independent promotions and other major companies, while providing platforms for aspiring wrestlers, can also be guilty of perpetuating mundane storylines that fail to captivate audiences. The creative stagnation is, therefore, a systemic issue, one that requires a broader conversation and proactive measures to rectify.
Another area of concern highlighted by Asuka’s comments is the lack of diversity within the industry. As a Japanese wrestler, she has had to overcome cultural barriers and stereotypes to establish herself as a top star. While the wrestling world has made strides in promoting inclusivity, there is still an evident gap in opportunities for talents from underrepresented backgrounds. Asuka’s frustration resonates with many diverse wrestlers who yearn for equal opportunities to showcase their skills and bring their unique perspectives to the forefront.
Furthermore, the lack of support for women’s wrestling is an ongoing issue. The female division, often deemed secondary to their male counterparts, has experienced an uphill battle for recognition and fair treatment. Despite tremendous talent and passion, women wrestlers often find themselves relegated to inferior storylines or limited screen time. Asuka’s criticism highlights the need for a more comprehensive and progressive approach to women’s wrestling, where their skill, dedication, and ability to draw a crowd are given the recognition they deserve.
While Asuka’s comment may have caused a stir within the wrestling community, it is essential to view it as an opportunity for growth and change. For an industry that thrives on innovation and captivating storytelling, the time has come to reevaluate and revitalize the creative process. Wrestlers like Asuka should be given the freedom and platform to showcase their talent fully, regardless of their background or gender.
In conclusion, Asuka’s candid statement, “It sucks,” shines a light on the faults plaguing the professional wrestling industry. Issues such as underutilization of talent, lack of diversity, and neglect of women’s wrestling cannot be ignored any longer. Wrestling fans and industry insiders alike should come together to advocate for positive changes that will allow talented wrestlers like Asuka to flourish and bring back the excitement and authenticity that attracted us to this form of entertainment in the first place.
0 | 
0