Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Booker T is grateful that his formative years in the ring were never under scrutiny by those on social media.
During his “Hall of Fame” podcast, Booker singled out social media as a difficult facet of wrestling for a young talent to deal with. He added,
“It’s crazy where we are today with social media,” he said. “I’m so glad we didn’t have this platform when I was coming up in the business.
“It would be the biggest headache one would’ve had to manage. The internet. Not the work, not the schedule, but the internet and people’s opinions and comments and thoughts about your job and they can do your job better than you can. I think that would be the hardest part.”
Booker’s comment came amid a discussion about a recent tweet by Dax Harwood that some took as a sign of FTR’s exit from AEW. Harwood later clarified that this isn’t the case.
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The Impact of Social Media on Wrestling: Booker T Reflects
Social media has become an integral part of our lives, allowing us to connect with others, share our thoughts, and stay updated on various topics. However, for those in the public eye, such as professional wrestlers, social media can be a double-edged sword. Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Booker T recently discussed the impact of social media on young talents in the wrestling industry, expressing gratitude that he did not have to navigate this platform during his formative years in the ring.
During his “Hall of Fame” podcast, Booker T highlighted social media as a challenging aspect of wrestling for young talents. He emphasized that dealing with the internet, people’s opinions, comments, and thoughts about one’s job can be overwhelming. Booker T stated, “It would be the biggest headache one would’ve had to manage. The internet. Not the work, not the schedule, but the internet and people’s opinions and comments and thoughts about your job and they can do your job better than you can. I think that would be the hardest part.”
Booker’s comments came in response to a recent tweet by Dax Harwood that sparked speculation about FTR’s potential exit from All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Harwood later clarified that this was not the case. This incident serves as an example of how social media can quickly amplify rumors and misinformation, leading to unnecessary speculation and confusion.
The wrestling industry has witnessed numerous instances where wrestlers have faced backlash or scrutiny on social media. Wrestlers are constantly under the watchful eyes of fans, critics, and fellow wrestlers who are quick to voice their opinions online. This constant exposure to public scrutiny can take a toll on their mental health and overall well-being.
While social media provides a platform for wrestlers to engage with their fans and promote their brand, it also exposes them to cyberbullying, hate speech, and negative comments. The pressure to maintain a positive image and respond to every comment can be overwhelming, especially for young talents trying to establish themselves in the industry.
It is crucial for wrestlers to strike a balance between utilizing social media as a promotional tool and protecting their mental health. Many wrestlers have taken steps to limit their social media presence or delegate the management of their accounts to professionals. This allows them to focus on their craft and avoid the negative aspects of social media.
As fans, it is important to remember that wrestlers are human beings who deserve respect and understanding. Constructive criticism is valuable, but it should be delivered in a respectful manner. Instead of fueling unnecessary drama or spreading rumors, fans can use social media to support their favorite wrestlers and contribute positively to the wrestling community.
In conclusion, social media has undoubtedly revolutionized the way we consume and interact with professional wrestling. While it provides opportunities for wrestlers to connect with fans and promote their brand, it also exposes them to intense scrutiny and negativity. Booker T’s reflections on the impact of social media shed light on the challenges young talents face in navigating this platform. It is essential for both wrestlers and fans to approach social media with mindfulness and respect, fostering a healthier and more positive environment for everyone involved in the wrestling industry.