AEW world champion MJF has a strong opinion about people who call wrestling fake. In an interview with WDW News Today, MJF drew a comparison between wrestling and Disney, stating that both share a unique ability to captivate audiences through storytelling, emotion, and imagination. He believes that wrestling, like Disney, is a form of escapism that transports fans to a different world, and he takes offense to the notion that it's not real.
"I find that professional wrestling and Disney specifically have so much in common," MJF said. "And what they have in common is that they both have a way of grabbing you through story, a way of grabbing you through emotion, and a way of capturing your imagination and making you feel like you’re in an entirely different universe and world. And nobody’s better at that than me. That’s why I’m the world champion, and that’s why I’m here."
MJF then addressed the critics directly, saying, "It’s a million percent storytelling. I think it’s the same reason why people love movies, TV, or comic books. And when I hear people say wrestling’s fake, first of all, tell that to my body. Second of all, let’s live in a world where wrestling’s fake. It’s not—just like Disney magic isn’t fake either. It’s not fake at all. But let’s pretend it is for five seconds, even though if you say it to me in the street, I will punch you in the face. It’s fake. So are movies. So is TV. So are comic books—all the things that I know you love."
This bold statement is sure to spark debate, as many wrestling fans have differing opinions on the authenticity of the sport. So, we ask you: What do you think? Is wrestling a form of storytelling or something more? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
