Jake 'The Snake' Roberts, a wrestling icon, has been vocal about his concerns regarding the state of professional wrestling in both WWE and AEW. In a recent interview, Roberts expressed his disappointment over the lack of emphasis on character development and traditional wrestling styles, which he believes is leading to a waste of talent. He advocates for a return to simpler, more grounded wrestling, where high-flying moves are used judiciously and when they truly enhance the performance.
Roberts' critique extends to the current WWE roster, which he suggests is in dire need of a refresh. He would 'fire about half' of the current roster, keeping only those who can actually wrestle. This sentiment reflects a broader trend in the industry, where the focus on spectacle and high-flying moves has sometimes overshadowed the fundamental skills of in-ring performance.
One of the few positives Roberts has noted in recent times is the work of Tony Khan at AEW. He praised Khan's leadership, calling it a 'breath of fresh air'. However, Roberts' own departure from AEW, despite his positive comments, suggests that even the most seasoned veterans can have differing views on the direction of the company.
The comparison between Roberts and AEW's Maxwell Jacob Friedman (MJF) is another interesting aspect of this discussion. While Roberts admires MJF's mic skills, he criticizes his fashion choices, highlighting the tension between the art of wrestling and the business side of the industry. This dichotomy is a common theme in professional wrestling, where the performers' artistic expression is often at odds with the commercial demands of the business.
In my opinion, Roberts' comments are a call to action for the wrestling industry. They highlight the need for a balance between innovation and tradition, and the importance of recognizing and nurturing the skills that make wrestling such a captivating art form. It is a reminder that, in the end, it is the performers who make the spectacle, and their talent and dedication should always be at the forefront.
