Six Types of Wrestling Fans: A Guide
Okay, here’s a breakdown of the wrestling fan archetypes described in the text, with a focus on thier defining characteristics and how they’d react to different wrestling eras/topics. I’ll also add a little ”vibe check” for each one.
1. the Mark (Not explicitly numbered, but first described)
Defining Characteristics: obsessive, deeply invested in kayfabe (believing storylines are real, even knowing they aren’t), prone to getting emotionally invested in characters and outcomes, likely to spend a lot of money on merchandise, and frequently enough vocal about their opinions. They need to be “in the know.”
Era/Topic Reactions:
Attitude Era: This is their golden age. They were likely fully immersed in the chaos, the swearing, the storylines. They’d remember every detail.
SuperCena Era: They’d likely have strong opinions, probably leaning towards frustration with the perceived predictability and Cena’s dominance.They might see it as a decline from the Attitude Era‘s edginess.
Raw Guest Hosts: They’d probably have a love/hate relationship with this. Some hosts were great, others were terrible, and they’d have opinions on each one. Hulk Hogan in TNA: They’d be fascinated and likely have a strong take on whether it was a good move for Hogan or a detriment to TNA.
Lance Storm vs. Albert: Absolutely knows this. They’d likely be able to rattle off the entire card of that show.
Steve Blackman’s Trousers: They’d appreciate the detail and likely have a strong opinion on whether they were “workable.”
vibe Check: High energy, potentially argumentative, always ready to debate. They live and breathe wrestling.
2. The Nostalgic Fan (Not explicitly numbered, but second described)
Defining Characteristics: Loves wrestling from a specific era (usually their childhood), often dismissive of modern wrestling, and tends to view the past through rose-tinted glasses.They’re less about current events and more about reliving the glory days.
Era/Topic Reactions:
Attitude era: This is likely their era.They’d be very protective of it and might see anything after as inferior. SuperCena Era: They’d likely dislike it intensely,seeing it as “soft” or ”corporate.”
Raw Guest Hosts: They’d probably remember a few of the memorable ones but generally see it as a sign of wrestling’s decline.
Hulk Hogan in TNA: They’d likely be conflicted. Hogan is a legend,but seeing him outside of WWE might feel wrong.
Lance Storm vs. Albert: They might remember it, but it’s not a defining moment for them.
Steve Blackman’s Trousers: They’d appreciate the aesthetic, but it’s not a central part of their nostalgia.
Vibe Check: Warm, sentimental, prone to saying “It was better back in my day.”
3. The Treasure Hunter (Number 5)
Defining Characteristics: Constantly searching for the “Next Big Thing,” gravitates towards independent wrestling, loves the thrill of discovery, and collects merchandise hoping it will become valuable. They’re about potential, not necessarily current stars.
Era/Topic Reactions:
Attitude Era: They’d appreciate the past significance, but they’re more interested in what’s happening now on the indies.
SuperCena Era: They might see Cena as a product of the system, not a groundbreaking talent.
Raw Guest Hosts: They’d likely dismiss this as a gimmick.
hulk Hogan in TNA: They’d be interested in the impact on TNA’s scene, but not necessarily Hogan himself.
Lance Storm vs. Albert: They’d know it, and see it as a stepping stone for Storm, but not a huge deal.
Steve Blackman’s Trousers: They’d appreciate the unique style, but it’s not their primary focus.
Bret hart in Stampede Wrestling: They’d be desperate to have seen this, and would likely have researched it extensively.
Young Will Ospreay at a community center: This is exactly what they live for.
vibe Check: Enthusiastic, slightly obsessive, always on the lookout for the next big thing. They’re the ones telling you about the amazing wrestler you’ve never heard of.
4. The Regular Wrestling Fan (Number 6)
Defining Characteristics: Casual enjoyment of wrestling, doesn’t get caught up in the drama, doesn’t need to be an expert, and appreciates it as entertainment. They’re the silent majority.
Era/Topic Reactions:
Attitude Era: They probably watched it