Writing About: Wrestlers

Out of all of my mortal (human) characters, the wrestlers in my WIP are my favorite characters because I get to be creative while writing about their career. Wrestlers aren’t usual characters in a book, but I couldn’t resist writing this post. And I figured wrestling fans may enjoy it.

Names –

Wrestlers can use their real name such as John Cena or Jeff Hardy, or a wrestler can have a ring name such as Sting or The Rock. A strong real name, or a ring name that matches their wrestling style and look, is a must.

Colors –

All wrestlers have theme colors that they incorporate into their attire or face paint (if the wrestler uses it). Think Eva Marie from WWE who has bright red hair and wears red. She even has a hashtag. #AllRedEverything

Outfit –

Wrestling is entertainment and the wrestlers are very much like actors, as well as athletes. Actors have costumes for their roles and so do wrestlers. These outfits incorporate their colors and match their personality. John Cena is All-American, so he wears jean shorts. Female wrestlers tend to wear skimpier clothing, but not all of them do. Some wear full-body leather outfits.

Theme Song –

What the wrestler walks into the arena to is another part of their package. The song has to fit the wrestler’s personality and excite the crowd when they hear it.

Finisher Move –

Every wrestler has a signature move they use to finish off their opponent and win the match. With Jeff Hardy, it’s the Swanton Bomb. Researching wrestling moves, watching videos, and combining stunts or putting a twist on one can help you come up with a new one. And you’ll get to name it!

Wrestling Match –

Watching wrestling matches is the only way to know how to write one. There are so many different types too: tag team, street match, cage match, weapons watch, etc. You can even create your own. Matches also have rules. Pin fall is the usually way to win. This is when a wrestler pins their opponent’s shoulders to the mat for a full three-count. But being the last in the ring in a group match where everyone is fighting everyone, or escaping the cage first are other ways to win.

TIP #1: Build up the tension. Let the match start off slow and get more intense with crazy stunts, “pain”, and close calls (two-counts).

TIP #2: Plan the match out. Know the beginning, middle and end. This will make it so much easier to write.

TIP #3: Include the audience. Have them cheer for the face (good) wrestler and boo the heal (bad) wrestler. They can chant too. A few favorite chants are “You can’t wrestle”, “You suck”, and “This is awesome!”

Wrestling is entertaining in real life and in fiction. One day, I hope to share my contemporary-romance wrestling story with all of you!

QUESTION: Are you a fan of wrestling? Do you have a favorite wrestler? Mine is obviously Jeff Hardy. haha