In a recent episode of the “WHW” podcast, AEW announcer Tony Schiavone shared his thoughts on the possibility of studio wrestling making a comeback in the world of professional wrestling. Schiavone believes that studio wrestling is unlikely to return to the big stage, as television stations prefer to showcase something bigger and more grandiose.
When asked about the potential resurgence of studio wrestling, Schiavone responded, “No, I don’t, not on the big stage. I don’t think television stations wanna see studio wrestling anymore. They wanna see something big, you think? Yeah. So those are gone, I mean, the NWA did it on YouTube, right? So that’s about as far as it’ll go.”
Studio wrestling, characterized by its intimate setting and limited audience, was a popular format in the early days of professional wrestling. However, with the evolution of the industry and the rise of larger promotions, the appeal of studio wrestling has diminished. Television stations now seek to captivate viewers with larger-than-life productions that feature elaborate sets, pyrotechnics, and high-stakes matches.
Schiavone’s comments align with the current trends in the wrestling landscape. Promotions like WWE and AEW invest heavily in creating a visually stunning product that appeals to a wide audience. The grandeur of arenas and stadiums, coupled with immersive storytelling and high-energy performances, has become the norm in professional wrestling.
While studio wrestling may not be making a comeback on the big stage, there have been instances where it has found a niche audience online. The National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) experimented with studio wrestling on YouTube, providing fans with a throwback experience reminiscent of the early days of the sport. However, Schiavone suggests that this is likely the extent to which studio wrestling will be embraced in the modern era.
As the wrestling industry continues to evolve, it is essential for promotions to adapt to the changing preferences of the audience. Television stations are looking for programming that delivers excitement, spectacle, and larger-than-life characters. This shift in demand has led to the decline of studio wrestling, as it no longer aligns with the expectations of mainstream viewers.
In conclusion, Tony Schiavone’s insights shed light on the current state of studio wrestling in professional wrestling. While the format may have its nostalgic appeal, it is unlikely to make a significant comeback on the big stage. Television stations and promotions prioritize delivering a visually stunning and grandiose product that captures the attention of a wide audience. As the industry continues to evolve, it is crucial for wrestling promotions to adapt to these changing preferences in order to thrive in the competitive landscape.
Sources:
– “WHW” podcast: [link](https://www.youtube.com/@AdFreeshows/videos)
– Wrestling Headlines: [link](https://wrestlingheadlines.com/tony-schiavone-explains-why-he-doesnt-think-studio-wrestling-will-return/)