During a recent edition of the “Busted Open Radio” podcast, Tommy Dreamer commented on Kazuchika Okada’s work in All Elite Wrestling so far and how the fans have been reacting to him. He said,
“But I tell this to everybody, we are in the reaction business. If they’re going to boo him at certain times and he is working like a heel, it’s not like he’s working like a babyface, and I love all the stuff that the Bucks are doing with him behind the scenes. He’s getting reactions.”
During a recent appearance on Hornswoggle’s “Going Postl” podcast, Nic Nemeth (Dolph Ziggler in WWE) commented on his release from WWE and having to adjust to being part of the NJPW and TNA locker rooms.
You can check out some highlights from the podcast below:
On figuring out who to talk to backstage: “I’m just looking around I go ‘Alright, I know this one guy — ah, he’s busy. I know Dana Brooke — ah, she’s busy.’”
On pressure on himself to deliver in-ring: “If I have a bad one tomorrow, that’s one bad one in three tries, like ‘Oh my God, I’ve lost it! I’m not the guy I said I was.’ And just walking into those locker rooms, it’s a little intimidating.”
On how the experience has been humbling: “Maybe that makes me want to pull out a better match. I don’t want it to be ‘Oh, in that bubble he was good, but now with everybody else, he can’t hang.’ And I’ve come to realize I absolutely can and I’ll be fine.”
In the world of professional wrestling, the ability to connect with the audience is paramount. Wrestlers strive to elicit strong reactions from the crowd, whether it be cheers or boos. Recently, there has been a lot of buzz surrounding Kazuchika Okada’s work in All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and how fans have been reacting to him.
Tommy Dreamer, a veteran wrestler and commentator, recently shared his thoughts on Okada’s performances during an episode of the “Busted Open Radio” podcast. Dreamer emphasized that the wrestling industry is all about eliciting reactions from the audience. He acknowledged that Okada has been working as a heel, or a villainous character, and praised the efforts of Matt and Nick Jackson (known as The Young Bucks) in helping Okada generate those reactions.
Dreamer’s comments shed light on the importance of understanding the role a wrestler plays in the narrative and how their actions can influence the crowd’s response. Okada’s ability to work as a heel and still garner strong reactions from the audience demonstrates his talent and adaptability as a performer.
In another podcast appearance, former WWE wrestler Nic Nemeth, known by his ring name Dolph Ziggler, discussed his release from WWE and his transition to working in New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) and Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling.
One aspect Nemeth highlighted was the challenge of navigating backstage interactions in these new environments. He humorously described his experience of trying to figure out who to talk to backstage, mentioning names like Dana Brooke but realizing they were busy. This anecdote provides insight into the dynamic nature of wrestling promotions and the need for wrestlers to establish connections and build relationships within the locker room.
Nemeth also opened up about the pressure he puts on himself to deliver high-quality performances in the ring. He expressed concern about having a bad match and questioning his abilities. This vulnerability showcases the mental and emotional challenges wrestlers face, as they constantly strive to prove themselves and maintain their reputation.
However, Nemeth also acknowledged that this experience has been humbling for him. He mentioned that it motivates him to deliver even better matches and dispel any doubts about his skills. This self-reflection demonstrates the resilience and determination required to succeed in the highly competitive world of professional wrestling.
Overall, both Dreamer’s and Nemeth’s insights provide a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes aspects of professional wrestling. From understanding the importance of eliciting reactions from the audience to the challenges of adjusting to new environments and maintaining confidence in one’s abilities, these stories shed light on the multifaceted nature of the wrestling industry. As fans continue to follow the journeys of wrestlers like Kazuchika Okada and Nic Nemeth, they gain a deeper appreciation for the dedication and hard work that goes into creating memorable moments inside and outside the ring.