How has wrestling changed over time?

Look up 'History of professional wrestling in the united states' on wikipedia - good starting point. Basically though...

Started with the old sport of catch wrestling. By 1880 this was very popular at American carnivals and fairs. By this point, most matches were a 'worked' performance though 'shoot' (legitimate) contests were not unheard of.

Next big change was the introduction of flashier holds, tag team wrestling and increased theatrics.

Then TV cemented this new style and figures like Gorgeous George and 'Nature Boy' Buddy Rogers became folk heroes, despite wrestlings pre-determined nature being largely common knowledge.

Since then, changes have been largely down to the business end of the industry or fashions amongst fans and performers. Influences such as the all-pervasive wwe and developments in foreign wrestling territories and the rise in popularity of full contact martial arts and latterly modern Mixed Martial Arts have also been big influences.

If you need anything else answered, such as questions of british or japanese wrestling or how TV programming has changed just drop me a line at maxymangabey@gmail.com and I will help you out.

First answer by ID1508959983. Last edit by ID1508959983. Question popularity: 1 [recommend question]