The Golden Age of Professional Wrestling: Beyond the WWE Era

Many believe that Vince McMahon created professional wrestling during his tenure with the World Wrestling Federation (now WWE). However, the truth is more complex and interesting. Let's explore the fascinating history of professional wrestling, going beyond the era dominated by WWE.

McMahon's Role in Professional Wrestling

Vince McMahon is often credited with creating the WWE, but this isn't entirely accurate. He didn't invent professional wrestling; he made it more accessible and globally popular. Many of the stars he is attributed with creating were already established in other wrestling territories. For example:

The Undertaker, Triple H, and Steve Austin were originally part of the World Championship Wrestling (WCW) roster. They became household names after they transitioned to WWE. Ric Flair spent the majority of his career outside of the WWF and had a long history with various promotions. Hulk Hogan wrestled in different promotions before and after his stint in the WWF, including in Japan.

McMahon’s contributions mainly involved marketing and broadcasting techniques that allowed these established wrestlers to reach a wider audience. He wasn’t the genius everyone makes him out to be—he was more of a shrewd businessman who capitalized on pre-existing wrestling talent.

The Rise of Wrestling Territories

Before McMahon's dominance, professional wrestling had a vast array of territories across the United States. Each territory had its own unique brand and audience, many of which were set in studio environments or small gyms specifically for television recording.

These territories were far from glamorous. Wrestlers had to travel across the country in their pursuit of fame, often facing the harsh realities of the road. The wrestlers’ living conditions and resources were limited compared to today’s standards.

Exploring the History Through Modern Technology

Thanks to advancements in technology, particularly the WWE Network, we can now access a wealth of historical content. With platforms like YouTube and the WWE Network, enthusiasts can learn about and watch matches from various wrestling territories. Some noteworthy territories include:

ECW WCCW Smokey Mountain Mid-South

These lesser-known promotions have a rich history and offer a unique perspective on the evolution of professional wrestling. The WWE Network and YouTube have democratized access to this information, making professional wrestling history more accessible than ever.

Learning from Our History

Having a deeper understanding of the history of professional wrestling can enrich our appreciation of the sport. It helps us appreciate the hard work and dedication of the wrestlers who came before us, and it provides context for the current state of the industry.

Do I wish more people knew about the territories and their impact on the sport? Absolutely! But this applies to many aspects of life. If we do not know and understand our history, how can we hope to learn and grow from it? Exploring the rich tapestry of professional wrestling history is a rewarding endeavor.

Further Reading and Resources

If you're interested in learning more about the golden age of professional wrestling, consider checking out the following resources:

Wrestling Podcasts: Podcasts like Just Another F’N Podcast can provide insights into the wrestlers, their careers, and the history of the industry. The WWE Network: Subscribe to the WWE Network for access to a vast library of matches and documentaries featuring wrestlers from various territories. YouTube Channels: Channels like NJPW World and other wrestling-centric channels offer comprehensive content about different wrestling promotions.