AEW star Mike Bailey, also known as Speedball, recently spoke on BTA Philly about why he believes the current era is the best time to be a wrestling fan. Bailey expressed a strong opinion that pro wrestling today has never been better, highlighting growth and cooperation among promotions worldwide.
Collaboration Among Promotions Driving Growth
Bailey pointed out that the expansion of wrestling is largely due to organizations working together. He cited the partnerships between promotions such as AEW, New Japan, and CMLL as examples of this positive trend. According to Bailey, these relationships not only elevate the sport but also hold cultural significance by bringing diverse wrestling styles and traditions to a broader audience.
Changing Cultural Narratives Within Wrestling
Discussing how wrestling now embraces cultural diversity, Bailey noted the sport’s shift away from outdated portrayals. He explained that historically, wrestling often depicted non-American wrestlers as antagonists, while American wrestlers were cast as heroes. Today, however, those stereotypes have faded, and different cultures are increasingly celebrated across wrestling platforms.
Promoting Diversity as a Reason to Support Wrestling
Bailey emphasized the importance of this evolution, especially for younger fans. He believes the current celebration of cultures within wrestling makes it a strong and positive influence that parents can encourage their children to explore. This inclusive mindset helps make wrestling not just entertaining but also meaningful for the next generation of fans.
Looking Ahead for Wrestling’s Global Future
By fostering collaboration between major wrestling promotions and embracing cultural diversity, the wrestling industry is entering a promising phase that may continue to expand its global reach. Bailey’s insights underline how this era offers unique opportunities for fans and participants alike, marking a hopeful chapter in pro wrestling’s ongoing evolution.
“Well, now is the best time in history to be a pro wrestling fan. I mean, pro wrestling this is my controversial thing, but pro wrestling now is better than pro wrestling’s ever been.” —Mike Bailey
“In terms of just how the sport has grown, and what’s really making it happen is promotions working together, and the fact that there’s a global network of wrestling promotions cooperating, and I mean, like, if you look at, for example, the relationship between AEW and New Japan and CMLL that’s going right now, not only is it good for pro wrestling, but it’s… culturally, it’s great.” —Mike Bailey
“It’s a great way to explore different cultures and see the rest of the world through professional wrestling. That’s really something… Like, when you talk about wrestling historically being kind of… Not kind of, but weirdly racist… right? That the people from outside America are the bad guys and the American guys are the good guys, right? That’s not how it is at all anymore.” —Mike Bailey
“Now cultures are celebrated all across pro wrestling and I think that’s a huge reason to want your kids to get into professional wrestling.” —Mike Bailey
