The landscape of professional wrestling has undergone significant transformations over the past few decades. From the golden era of the 80s to the Monday Night Wars of the 90s, and into the modern era of streaming, social media, and ever-expanding promotions, wrestling continues to evolve. In this article, we will discuss a variety of prominent wrestling shows that form the foundation of post-watch wrestling culture. This includes WWE Raw, WWE NXT, AEW Dynamite, UFC, TNA/Impact Wrestling, Ring of Honor (ROH), WWE SmackDown, AEW Rampage, NXT Level Up, AEW Collision, and New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW). Each of these promotions and shows brings its own unique flair to the wrestling world, catering to a wide range of audiences, and shaping the future of professional wrestling.
1. WWE Raw
WWE Raw, known as Monday Night Raw, is one of the longest-running weekly professional wrestling television shows in history. Debuting in 1993, Raw has been the flagship program for WWE and has remained one of the most watched shows in the world of wrestling. It airs on Monday nights and is often viewed as the centerpiece of WWE’s programming.
Raw’s Importance in the Post-Watch Era: WWE Raw holds a central place in the modern post-watch wrestling culture due to its historical significance and its ability to draw viewers through compelling storylines and top-tier talent. WWE Raw is known for featuring some of the biggest names in professional wrestling, including legends like The Rock, Steve Austin, Triple H, John Cena, and more recently, Roman Reigns. However, in recent years, its viewership has fluctuated due to various factors, including competition from AEW Dynamite and changes in WWE’s creative direction.
Post-Watch Analysis of Raw: The advent of social media, podcasts, YouTube channels, and wrestling forums has created an entire subculture of post-watch analysis. Fans dissect Raw’s weekly episodes, often breaking down storylines, matches, character development, and booking decisions. Fans take to platforms like Reddit, Twitter, and YouTube to discuss what they liked or disliked about the show, often creating memes and viral moments along the way. This post-watch community helps to shape the ongoing conversation around WWE and keeps the show relevant even after it has aired.
2. WWE NXT
NXT, which originally started as a developmental territory for WWE, has evolved into a standout brand in its own right. It serves as a platform for up-and-coming talent to showcase their abilities before moving up to WWE’s main roster. However, NXT has often been praised for its compelling in-ring action and unique presentation that sets it apart from its bigger sibling promotions.
The Evolution of NXT: NXT began as a reality-based competition in 2010 but found its true identity as a brand dedicated to showcasing high-quality wrestling and strong character development. Stars like Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens, Finn Bálor, and Becky Lynch all made their names in NXT, and the brand has been instrumental in establishing WWE’s global reach.
Post-Watch Reception of NXT: Since its inception, NXT has been beloved by fans for its willingness to push the envelope with new ideas and a focus on in-ring quality. Shows like NXT TakeOver have garnered critical acclaim for their match quality, but even NXT’s weekly shows have been heavily analyzed by the post-watch wrestling community. Fans appreciate the more “wrestling-centric” approach to storytelling, with less reliance on soap opera-like drama that is often associated with WWE’s main roster shows. Social media platforms, fan forums, and podcasts continue to be essential in maintaining the buzz around NXT.
3. AEW Dynamite
Since its launch in 2019, All Elite Wrestling (AEW) has made waves in the wrestling world as a legitimate alternative to WWE. AEW Dynamite, which airs on Wednesday nights, quickly became a key player in the wrestling industry. AEW offers an alternative viewing experience with a focus on compelling wrestling matches, exciting storylines, and a more organic atmosphere.
The Impact of AEW on the Wrestling Landscape: AEW’s arrival has reinvigorated wrestling fans who had been disillusioned by the direction WWE had been heading in during the late 2010s. AEW’s focus on in-ring action, character-driven storytelling, and a broader approach to inclusivity has garnered praise from fans. The company’s ability to book fresh talent, paired with the veteran presence of stars like Chris Jericho, Jon Moxley, and Cody Rhodes, has proven successful in attracting both casual and hardcore fans alike.
Post-Watch Discourse on AEW: AEW Dynamite has sparked extensive post-watch discourse across various platforms. The immediacy of social media has allowed fans to share their thoughts on everything from match quality to backstage drama. AEW’s interactions with fans on platforms like Twitter and Reddit also contribute to a sense of community, where discussions evolve in real-time. AEW’s loyal fanbase often generates lively debate and analysis, keeping the conversation alive long after the show has ended.
4. UFC
While UFC is not strictly professional wrestling, its prominence in the world of combat sports has made it a relevant talking point in the world of post-watch wrestling. UFC has a more realistic approach to combat sports, but the storytelling surrounding its fights often mirrors the drama and rivalries found in professional wrestling.
UFC’s Influence on Wrestling: The UFC has undeniably influenced the way professional wrestling promotions present their storylines and characters. Fighters like Conor McGregor, Ronda Rousey, and Brock Lesnar, who have crossed over from UFC to WWE, have brought a heightened sense of legitimacy and realism to WWE’s product. UFC’s success also helped reshape the perception of mixed martial arts and combat sports, providing WWE with a blueprint for how to blend athletic competition with dramatic storytelling.
Post-Watch Culture Surrounding UFC: Fans analyze UFC events in a similar manner to wrestling shows, dissecting the outcomes of fights, rivalries, and the personal lives of fighters. UFC fans often engage in post-event discussions about the legitimacy of certain outcomes, potential future matchups, and the trajectory of a fighter’s career. This creates an additional layer of content for post-watch engagement, similar to the wrestling community’s coverage of WWE, AEW, and other wrestling promotions.
5. TNA/Impact Wrestling
Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), now known as Impact Wrestling, has had a turbulent but noteworthy existence. Since its inception in 2002, Impact Wrestling has featured many former WWE stars, as well as homegrown talent. While it has struggled with financial instability and creative issues over the years, the company has always maintained a loyal fanbase.
Impact Wrestling’s Place in Post-Watch Wrestling: Impact Wrestling’s relatively niche status means that it often gets overshadowed by WWE and AEW, but the show has consistently provided quality in-ring action and an alternative to mainstream wrestling. The brand’s focus on X-Division matches, tag team wrestling, and storylines involving established stars has kept it relevant. The company’s approach to post-watch wrestling engagement is different in that it appeals to a smaller, more dedicated audience, often cultivating discussions that are more centered on the technical aspects of the matches than the broader pop culture conversations that surround WWE and AEW.
6. Ring of Honor (ROH) Wrestling
ROH has played a significant role in shaping modern professional wrestling. Established in 2002, the company has helped launch the careers of many top-tier wrestlers, including CM Punk, Daniel Bryan, and Samoa Joe. ROH’s focus on fast-paced, technical wrestling and compelling character development has given it a cult following.
ROH’s Role in Post-Watch Wrestling: ROH’s more niche status means that its post-watch culture is more underground compared to that of WWE and AEW. However, its influence cannot be denied, as many of its former stars are now major players in the wrestling world. Fans of ROH often discuss the technical proficiency of its matches, with a focus on match structures, in-ring psychology, and the evolution of wrestlers within the promotion.
7. WWE SmackDown
WWE SmackDown, like Raw, is one of the most popular wrestling shows globally. Debuting in 1999, it has since become a key part of WWE’s weekly lineup. SmackDown features many of WWE’s biggest stars and has consistently delivered high-profile storylines and pay-per-view matches.
SmackDown in the Post-Watch Era: With the launch of WWE SmackDown on Fox, the show has taken on a more mainstream feel, attracting casual viewers while retaining the hardcore fanbase. The post-watch discourse around SmackDown often centers on the performances of superstars like Roman Reigns, Charlotte Flair, and Bray Wyatt, who have become staples of the show.
8. AEW Rampage
AEW Rampage, airing on Friday nights, is AEW’s secondary weekly wrestling show. While it has not reached the same level of prominence as AEW Dynamite, Rampage has been home to some memorable moments and matches.
Post-Watch Discourse Around Rampage: Given its secondary status, AEW Rampage often generates a different type of post-watch analysis. Fans often compare the show to Dynamite, discussing how the matches and storylines stack up. Rampage provides an opportunity for AEW’s midcard talent to shine, with post-watch discussions focusing on rising stars and the overall pacing of the show.
9. NXT Level Up
NXT Level Up is WWE’s attempt to create a developmental show that highlights the next generation of talent. It airs on Fridays, showcasing young and emerging WWE superstars who have not yet made their mark on the main roster.
Post-Watch Analysis of NXT Level Up: NXT Level Up serves a niche audience of wrestling fans who are invested in the future of WWE. Post-watch content related to this show often centers around the potential of new stars and how their journeys might unfold in NXT and beyond.
10. AEW Collision
AEW Collision, a newer addition to AEW’s programming, represents the company’s expansion into more televised wrestling content. It airs on Saturdays and features marquee matches and continuing storylines.
Post-Watch Discussion Around Collision: Fans of AEW often analyze Collision in comparison to Dynamite, discussing its unique programming style and how it fits into the broader AEW narrative. As AEW continues to expand its footprint, post-watch analysis of shows like Collision becomes more important in fostering discussion about the company’s future direction.
11. NJPW (New Japan Pro Wrestling)
New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) has earned a reputation as one of the most respected wrestling promotions worldwide. Known for its hard-hitting, athletic style, NJPW is especially popular among fans of puroresu (Japanese professional wrestling).
NJPW’s Impact on the Wrestling World: NJPW has had a massive influence on the global wrestling scene. Its stars, such as Kazuchika Okada, Hiroshi Tanahashi, and Will Ospreay, are known for their technical brilliance and high-quality matches. NJPW’s post-watch culture is vast and influential, with fans from around the world engaging in detailed discussions of match quality, rivalries, and the company’s unique style of storytelling.
Conclusion
The evolution of post-watch wrestling has revolutionized how fans consume and engage with professional wrestling. Through social media, podcasts, YouTube, and other platforms, wrestling enthusiasts can continue the conversation long after the cameras stop rolling. WWE Raw, AEW Dynamite, UFC, Impact Wrestling, ROH, WWE SmackDown, AEW Rampage, NXT Level Up, AEW Collision, and NJPW all play significant roles in shaping the modern wrestling landscape. Each promotion offers something unique, whether it be compelling in-ring action, innovative storylines, or the development of future stars, and post-watch culture has become an essential part of the wrestling ecosystem. Fans continue to shape the wrestling world, one tweet, video, or forum post at a time.