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 a recent edition of his “Hall of Fame” podcast, Booker T singled out social media as a difficult facet of wrestling for a young talent to deal with. He said,
“It’s crazy where we are today with social media. 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 T’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 daily lives, allowing us to connect with others, share our thoughts, and express our opinions. 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 the wrestling industry, expressing his gratitude for not having to navigate this platform during his formative years in the ring.
Booker T, known for his successful career in both WWE and WCW, highlighted social media as a challenging aspect for young talent in the wrestling business. He emphasized that dealing with the internet and people’s opinions can be overwhelming, stating, “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.”
In an era where anyone with an internet connection can voice their opinions, wrestlers are constantly under scrutiny. Every move they make, every match they have, and every promo they deliver is subject to analysis and criticism. This level of scrutiny can be mentally and emotionally draining for young talents trying to establish themselves in the industry.
Booker T’s comments came in response to a recent tweet by Dax Harwood, one-half of the tag team FTR, which some fans interpreted as a sign of their departure from All Elite Wrestling (AEW). Harwood later clarified that this was not the case, highlighting how social media can often lead to misunderstandings and false narratives.
The wrestling industry has seen numerous instances where social media has played a significant role in shaping storylines and creating controversies. Wrestlers have used platforms like Twitter to engage with fans, promote upcoming matches, and even engage in heated exchanges with their rivals. While this can add an extra layer of excitement for fans, it also exposes wrestlers to constant scrutiny and potential backlash.
For young talents, social media can be a daunting platform to navigate. The pressure to maintain a certain image, respond to fans’ comments, and deal with negative feedback can take a toll on their mental well-being. It can also distract them from focusing on their in-ring performances and honing their craft.
Despite the challenges, social media has also provided wrestlers with unique opportunities to connect with their fanbase on a more personal level. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube allow wrestlers to share behind-the-scenes moments, showcase their personalities, and build their brand outside of the ring. This direct interaction with fans can create a loyal following and open doors for various opportunities beyond wrestling.
In conclusion, social media has undoubtedly changed the landscape of the wrestling industry. While it offers numerous benefits, such as increased fan engagement and promotional opportunities, it also presents challenges for young talents trying to establish themselves. Booker T’s reflection on the impact of social media serves as a reminder that navigating this platform requires resilience and a strong sense of self amidst the constant scrutiny and opinions of others.