Wrestling and Writing: Unlikely twins of storytelling

On the surface, professional wrestling and writing books couldn’t seem more different. On the one hand, there are the extroverted entertainers, the athletic fights, and the boisterous crowds. On the other hand, we have the quiet and introspective world of literature, where authors put their thoughts and stories on paper. But if you look closer, they’re pretty similar.

The art of storytelling

In both wrestling and writing, the key is to captivate the audience and take them on a journey. Wrestling storylines are all about the relationships and rivalries between the athletes. Their stories culminate in epic matches and dramatic moments.

Whether it’s a tale of good vs. evil, the underdog’s rise to victory, or betrayal between friends or family, sports entertainment uses the same narrative structures that authors employ. Their books are full of thrills, action, love, and twists.

The difference lies in the medium: where writers use words to paint pictures in the reader’s mind, wrestlers use their bodies to tell their stories. The ring is their stage, and every move they make, every expression they show, is part of the larger arc. Just like in writing, the best wrestling stories are those that explore deeper themes and emotions. It’s not just about who wins or loses, but why they fight, what they stand to gain or lose, and how their journeys evolve.

Characters first

Sports entertainment, like writing, is an art form that combines skill, creativity, and psychology to create a memorable experience for its audience. The best stories are those that make the audience feel as though they’ve been part of something special. Whether in a wrestling match or a literary narrative, the characters are essential to capture the audience’s emotions and imagination.

The good guy, or “babyface”, is often an embodiment of virtues like honor, bravery, and resilience. The bad guy, or “heel”, represents the darker aspects of human nature—greed, betrayal, and ruthlessness. The clash between these opposing forces drives the story forward, just as in any other story.

However, wrestling, much like literature, can blur the line between good and evil. A heel might have a justified reason for their actions, or a babyface might have to confront their own darker impulses to overcome their adversary. The complex morality of the characters adds depth, making viewers invested in the story and eager for more.

Just as a writer outlines their story, wrestlers, and promoters map out long-term story arcs, character development, and major plot twists. These stories can take months or years, with characters developing and rivalries getting more intense. Like a good book, these long stories really pay off because you get emotionally invested.

Dedication to craft and audience

Wrestling and writing require dedication to succeed. Professional wrestlers spend hours training to get their bodies in tip-top shape or hone their promotional skills. Similarly, authors invest hours in writing, editing, and perfecting their works.

Moreover, just as a writer must understand their audience, so too must a wrestler. The psychology of wrestling involves knowing how to elicit the right reactions from the crowd—how to make them cheer, boo, or gasp in shock. It’s about pacing the match in a way that builds tension and excitement, much like a writer paces a story to keep the reader engaged. The best sports entertainers and authors know how to craft a narrative that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, eager to see what happens next.

Interaction with the audience is of great importance in both fields and can influence the output of a wrestler or author. Neither could not exist without their audience. In wrestling, the success of a wrestler or a wrestling show depends on how the audience responds to it. The live audience and those watching on television screens play a crucial role. Likewise, authors rely on readers to read and discuss their books. Therefore, wrestlers and authors alike must be resilient because they expose themselves to criticism and the potential rejection of their craft.

The finishing move

Wrestling and writing books offer a unique way to tell stories and evoke emotions. Both require a deep understanding of character development, narrative structure, and audience engagement. Whether through the written word or physical performance, the goal is the same: to tell a story that entertains the audience.