Requirements to Become a Professional Wrestler

Becoming a professional wrestler involves several key requirements and steps. Below is an overview of what aspiring wrestlers need to know and do.

Physical Fitness

Wrestlers need to be in excellent physical condition. This typically involves strength training, cardiovascular fitness, and flexibility. A well-rounded fitness regimen is essential for success in the wrestling industry.

Training

Most aspiring wrestlers attend a wrestling school or training camp. These programs teach the fundamentals of wrestling, including techniques, promos, and ring psychology. Notable schools include the WWE Performance Center and various independent wrestling schools. Professional training is crucial for both skills development and building a strong network within the industry.

Experience

Gaining in-ring experience through matches is crucial. This often starts in local promotions or independent circuits. Many wrestlers work their way up from smaller organizations to build a solid foundation of experience.

Character Development

Wrestlers often create a persona or character that resonates with fans. This includes developing a unique look, catchphrases, and a storyline. A well-developed character is vital for attracting and retaining fan support.

Networking

Building relationships within the wrestling industry is essential. This includes connecting with promoters, wrestlers, and fans. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and help establish a strong presence in the industry.

Health and Medical Clearance

Many promotions require wrestlers to pass medical examinations and have insurance coverage. Maintaining good health is crucial for a long and successful career in professional wrestling.

Education and Additional Steps

Typically, a lot of middle and high school weight lifting and wrestling clubs are involved in the early stages. For those interested in WWE, moving to Florida is crucial as the WWE Performance Center is located there. Having a degree of some kind, even any kind, can help. A degree might not be a requirement, but it can provide additional benefits in terms of networking and qualifications.

For physical specifics, the ideal weight is around 245 pounds for a 6 feet tall individual. For cruiserweights, the size and weight can vary but typically, they are a bit smaller. Wrestling careers move through various stages, including:

Several years in training 3-4 years in NXT Possibly getting moved to the main roster Some wrestlers stay in NXT longer

Average Career Duration

The average career of a professional wrestler can vary widely based on several factors, including:

Injury History: Wrestling is physically demanding, and injuries can shorten careers. Promotional Opportunities: Wrestlers in major promotions like WWE or AEW may have longer careers due to better resources and scheduling. Age: Many wrestlers start training in their late teens or early twenties. While some wrestlers can have successful careers into their 40s or beyond, the average career length is often around 5 to 10 years.

Notable Examples

Some wrestlers achieve longevity in their careers, while others may have shorter stints due to the physically demanding nature of the profession. Here are some notable examples:

Hulk Hogan: He was around from 1979 to 2003, with some absence years in 1992 and 2002. He also had a brief stint in TNA/Impact after his retirement. Randy Orton and John Cena: Both created and developed by WWE starting in 2002, these wrestlers have had successful careers of 15 years or longer. Bron Breakker: Son of Rick Steiner, he has been given a strong match list and character development for 4-5 years. Roman Reigns: Related to the Rock, he was chosen 12 years ago and built up largely on the basis of bringing the Rock out of retirement one more time for a huge payday. Ultimate Warrior and Sting: Discovered as giant bodybuilders in a gym in 1985, which is very old-school. Modern Approaches: Nowadays, aspiring wrestlers need to live in Florida, catch an audition for NXT, and do well in the performance center. Some successfully achieve careers purely through networking and standout performances, such as Mason Ryan and Ezekiel Jackson, who were physically monstrous but lacked natural pro-wrestling/television performance skills.

While nepotism can sometimes work, it is not a guarantee. Most success comes from hard work, talent, and strategic networking within the industry.