In the ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling, characters have always played a pivotal role in capturing the imagination of fans. From the larger-than-life personas to the nuanced and relatable ones, characters have the power to connect with audiences on a visceral level.

Eric Bischoff's View on Wrestling Characters

Legendary wrestling executive Eric Bischoff recently weighed in on the importance of character development in wrestling. In an interview with WrestleZone, Bischoff expressed his longing for the days when characters were more believable and relatable.

"I miss characters in wrestling," Bischoff said. "I miss characters that you could believe in, that you could relate to, that you could root for or root against. I think that's something that's been missing in wrestling for a while now."

According to Bischoff, the focus on high-flying stunts and athleticism has overshadowed the art of storytelling and character development.

"It's like anything else in entertainment," Bischoff continued. "You can have all the bells and whistles you want, but if you don't have a compelling story or character, you're not going to keep people's attention for very long."

A 'Believable' WWE Hall Of Famer

When asked to name a character that epitomized the qualities he missed in wrestling, Bischoff singled out WWE Hall Of Famer Bret Hart.

"I thought Bret Hart was one of the most believable characters ever in wrestling," Bischoff said. "He was a guy that you could relate to, that you could root for, that you could believe he was actually in pain when he was getting beaten up."

Bischoff praised Hart for his ability to convey complex emotions through his performances.

"Bret was a master of facial expressions," Bischoff said. "He could tell a story with just a look. He could make you laugh, he could make you cry, he could make you hate him, he could make you love him. He was a true master of his craft."

The Importance of Character Development

Bischoff's comments underscore the importance of character development in wrestling. While athleticism and spectacle have their place, it is the characters that ultimately drive the stories and create lasting connections with fans.

Characters provide the emotional hook that draws audiences into the world of wrestling. They allow fans to suspend their disbelief and invest in the outcomes of matches and storylines.

Strong characters can also help promote positive values and inspire fans. They can teach lessons about perseverance, redemption, and the power of human connection.

Conclusion

Eric Bischoff's longing for the days of believable and relatable characters in wrestling should serve as a reminder of the importance of character development in the industry. While the focus on athleticism and spectacle may be appealing to some fans, it is the characters that ultimately create the lasting memories and emotional connections that make wrestling so compelling.

By embracing the art of storytelling and investing in character development, wrestling promotions can create a more engaging and immersive experience for fans. And as Bret Hart's legendary career demonstrates, it is the believable and relatable characters that truly stand the test of time.

Read also: USA Triumph Over Canada, Reigning Supreme In World Junior Hockey Group