On a recent edition of his “The Snake Pit” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Jake Roberts discussed his decision to retire and his desire to continue wrestling.
You can check out some highlights from the podcast below:
On when he knew it was time to retire from wrestling: “Yeah. I knew it was time to retire, probably in ’97 or ’98. But I just couldn’t stop, man. You know, I just wanted more. And shame on me for going out there when I couldn’t do what I used to do. But you’ve watched all the guys do it. You know, the old-timers do it, who comes to mind, Hacksaw [Jim Duggan]. You know, Hacksaw does a lot of walking and talking out there in the ring. But he’s not talking bumps, and he’s just a shadow of what he used to be.
“But you know, you go back out there because you think you can do it. And then when you get out there, you realize that you can’t. You don’t have the wind, you don’t have the strength. You just can’t man, your body won’t do it. No matter how much you have in your heart, your body just can’t perform.”
On still wanting to wrestle: “I just figured I’d do it until I didn’t want to do it anymore. And the problem is, you’ll always want to do it. I mean, to this day I wish that I could do it. I’d love to have one more match, but I know I can’t. And it pisses me off.”
On scratching the itch in other ways: “Anytime you go to the ring, it helps a little bit. You’re still getting to go out there and feel that excitement, feel the adrenaline. Even as a manager throwing a punch, or giving somebody a short arm clothesline. You know, it’s a rush.”
WWE Hall of Famer Jake Roberts Opens Up About Retirement and Desire to Continue Wrestling
In a recent episode of his podcast “The Snake Pit,” legendary wrestler Jake Roberts discussed his decision to retire from professional wrestling and his ongoing desire to step back into the ring. The WWE Hall of Famer shared his thoughts on knowing when it was time to retire, the challenges of continuing to wrestle past his prime, and finding alternative ways to satisfy his wrestling itch.
Roberts, known for his iconic persona and in-ring skills, revealed that he had recognized the need to retire as early as 1997 or 1998. However, his passion for the sport and the desire for more kept him going. He acknowledged that he made a mistake by continuing to wrestle when he couldn’t perform at the level he once did. Roberts cited fellow wrestler Hacksaw Jim Duggan as an example of an older wrestler who still performs but has significantly scaled back his physicality in the ring.
The wrestling legend admitted that even though he knew it was time to retire, he still longs to step back into the squared circle. Roberts expressed his frustration, saying, “I’d love to have one more match, but I know I can’t. And it pisses me off.” This sentiment highlights the emotional attachment and passion wrestlers have for their craft, even after they retire.
To scratch the wrestling itch, Roberts has found solace in other aspects of the business. He explained that every time he steps into the ring, whether as a manager or delivering a punch, he still feels the rush of excitement and adrenaline. These moments help him stay connected to the sport he loves while respecting the limitations his body now imposes.
Roberts’ candid discussion sheds light on the challenges faced by retired wrestlers who still yearn for the thrill of performing in front of a live audience. It serves as a reminder that wrestling is not just a job but a way of life for many individuals who dedicate their bodies and souls to the sport.
Fans of Jake Roberts and professional wrestling can listen to the full episode of “The Snake Pit” podcast to hear more about his retirement decision and his ongoing passion for the world of wrestling. While Roberts may no longer compete in the ring, his legacy as one of the greatest wrestlers of all time continues to inspire and captivate fans around the world.