Key Takeaways
- WWE is home to many legendary figures from history, and it is their impact outside of wrestling that allows them to still connect with fans and keep them engaged with their legacy.
- The mystery of absence, excitement and speculation helps to create interest and intrigue around these figures and allows them to remain relevant.
- The strategic timing of their returns and the ongoing changes within the industry make it easy for WWE fans to refer back to their favourite legends, as well as stay involved with them through the years.
The world of pro wrestling is constantly changing. A pro wrestler’s return or down period creates both excitement and speculation. WWE has had many wrestlers over the years that were missed when they left. Many of these wrestlers still influence WWE fans and the professional wrestling business by being remembered after they left. Legends, such as Vince McMahon, still are seen as the epitome of a professional wrestling champion by the fans that knew them.
Through nostalgia, wrestlers’ achievements, memories, and surprising moments provide longevity to the wrestling community. Sharing our reminiscences allows us to experience new experiences like seeing wrestlers return who shouldn’t have returned. We share our experience of highlight videos or social media discussions when somebody we loved stopped wrestling. Younger wrestlers now get their chance to build brands, brands will continue to be relevant, and new avenues through which to engage with fans are available thanks to this sharing of experience. The level of enthusiasm these individuals are held in has a large impact on the direction of creativity across the wrestling industry. Legacy and novelty are balanced by the presence and absence of these individuals, as well as the manner in which their achievements and memories affect the creativity within the industry.
Building a Lasting Legacy
A true WWE Legend is more than just an athlete who has enjoyed great success, won numerous championships, or had many matches. Legends are often celebrated for having that “it” factor, a unique charisma which allows them to establish a connection with their fans through the use of storyline development, character enhancement, and catch phrases which catch the attention of their audience. Because of this special connection they have developed with their fan base emotionally, legends have the ability to create a story, create drama, and commit themselves completely to developing their characters. When superstars connect with their fans, they not only entertain them but also inspire future generations of WWE fans with their legacies long after they leave the squared circle.
The Power of Absence
There is something about the absence of a great warrior that reminds us of what they have left behind. The mystique of a legacy only increases while they’re away. As fans continue to watch and talk about an individual’s greatest matches or see clips, the buzz generated by these conversations continues to keep a wrestling legend at the forefront of professional wrestling talk.
Speculation and Anticipation
The element of surprise is extremely prevalent in wrestling. Fans are excited to speculate over rumors calling for (person A) to return, the backstage chatter, or clues on social media. The excitement surrounding a superstar’s potential return creates renewed excitement and increases the bond between their current fans and the fans who have supported them throughout the years. Superstars who are not currently competing develop an aura and develop additional legacies in which to build upon. WWE takes advantage of this level of excitement and anticipation by creating conversation regarding all aspects of a superstar’s potential return including, music and surprise entrances.
Impact on the Industry
WWE feels the impact immediately after losing any of its key talents. New and unproven wrestlers receive chances to step up and fill the gaps left by the departed star. This change creates an opportunity for the industry to change, as there will be different stories told using different wrestlers. Though the legacy of such legends shall not remain the same, a number of elements will reflect that legacy moving forward. New wrestlers will often invoke the inspiration their predecessors provided through their careers, while fans will continue to draw comparisons between any of the new wrestlers and those that previously filled that role.
At the same time, a major return can reshape the entire landscape. WrestleMania moments or surprise appearances have altered storylines, title pictures, and even led to historical matches. When an industry great returns, it is more than nostalgia; it becomes a pivot point that can attract lapsed viewers and spark mainstream attention.
Emotional Investment of Fans
Supporters feel an emotional connection with their top stars, and they share the ups and downs with their fans. Years after a fan-favorite wrestler leaves the business, the people may still chant that wrestler’s given name at events. Likewise, merchandise sales may still be strong even when that wrestler is not in the ring anymore. Although there may be doubt about whether that wrestler will make a comeback to the company at some point, fans will continue to hope for a comeback and consider it to be a significant part of their fan experiences.
Strategic Returns
The WWE has mastered the art form of the unforgettable return. The time, place, integration into existing storylines and anticipation are all essential components of a legendary return. Whether it’s a surprise appearance at a major PPV or the result of weeks of cryptic promotion, these moments will always elicit some of the most deafening reactions in sports entertainment.
The WWE has leveraged the legacy and anticipation built while a performer is away to create anticipation for every return. The WWE’s use of strategic returns creates opportunities to increase viewership ratings, merchandise sales and overall fandom through the successful combination of business and storytelling.
Conclusion
Leaving the WWE created a sensation in society that will last for a lifetime. You were missing out on many large crowds who created a deep emotional connection with you. Through that connection and the anticipation they generated, you have developed the personality of an enduring, even timeless star. Many times in professional wrestling it not only creates a person’s legacy, but creates the legend that defines the history and future of the sport as well.
