Deep Dive: Episode 03 | The State of Pro Wrestling Now
Various perspectives on professional wrestling in 2025 are presented, with some fans on Reddit's Squared Circle community believing it's a peak era reminiscent of the late 90s due to the strength of multiple promotions and easier access to international content. In contrast, a Fightful interview with AEW wrestler Speedball Mike Bailey expresses that pro wrestling in 2025 is the best it has ever been, highlighting the improved conditions and opportunities compared to earlier in his career. An essay from Fresh Writing at the University of Notre Dame analyzes the enduring appeal of WWE, attributing its popularity to its carnivalesque nature, the spectacle of suffering, and the displays of athletic beauty, despite its pre-planned outcomes. Another Fightful article discusses the significant impact of social media on modern wrestling, affecting fan engagement, character development, and the rise of independent wrestlers. Finally, a Reddit thread on r/wrestling explores the fundamental appeal of amateur wrestling as a challenging individual sport emphasizing physical and mental toughness, distinct from the staged entertainment of professional wrestling.
