PWI Weekly for December 2, 2024
Technically Speaking: Scientists Of The Squared Circle
PROFESSIONAL WRESTLING HAS always been a world that straddles the line between fantasy and reality. Often, however, that line can skew in the direction of fantasy a little too much for our liking.
Thankfully, there are people within the sphere who are always grounded in reality. More often than not, these are the ones who have been dubbed “scientific wrestlers.” These grapplers tend to rely on their athleticism to do their talking, rather than glitz and glamor.
Don’t be fooled into thinking these folks are boring, however—a complex system of thought drives every move and match in pro wrestling. And, in this edition of the PWI Weekly, we put the spotlight firmly on the scientists of the squared circle.
WRESTLER OF THE WEEK
With his powerful strikes and precise submissions, Gunther stands as perhaps the most formidable “scientific” wrestler plying his trade right now. The WWE World heavyweight champion’s methodical approach and unwavering focus have helped him dismantle opponents from Vienna to Vancouver, and his current title reign is a testament to the power of pure wrestling skill and dominance.
We at PWI have never shied away from calling professional wrestling a sport … and we have to imagine neither would Gunther. He speaks of the mat being sacred. And, with a nickname like the “Ring General,” it’s not hard to see that the Austrian native takes his craft seriously.
Perhaps the biggest compliment we can pay Gunther is that he likely would have been just as successful in any era of the sport. Imagine what his clashes with Bruno Sammartino or Verne Gagne might have looked like. Gunther’s ability to control the pace of a match and dictate the outcome has made him a dominant force in the WWE today. And just like those celebrated champions of yesteryear, he may be in for a lengthy world title reign.
A QUICK WORD ABOUT …
While AEW boasts a talented women's division, it always feels like someone is being left out. Sure, we could urge Tony Khan (again) to devote more time to the myriad “All Elite” women he has under contract. Instead, we are using this space to talk about one in particular.
Simply put: Deonna Purrazzo is one of the finest scientific wrestlers on the planet—and we would like to see more of her.
“The Virtuosa’s” technical brilliance and submission mastery could elevate the Women’s World or TBS title belts to new heights; if only she were allowed to hold them. With ROH under AEW’s umbrella, there’s even a prime opportunity to showcase her on that stage. Either way, it’s time for the powers that be to recognize Purrazzo’s potential and give her the platform she deserves.
MUSINGS, WITH MATT BROCK
I’ll spare you the “things were better in my day” introduction. Rest assured, though, that they were; even before my day.
Scientific wrestling was a different beast back then. Guys like Lou Thesz and Karl Gotch shared the nickname “The God Of Wrestling.” Both were the epitome of technical prowess. They could make you tap out with a simple wristlock or a toe hold. It wasn't about flashy moves or high-flying antics. It was about strategy, psychology, and pure wrestling skill.
Nowadays, it seems like everyone is trying to outdo one another with increasingly outrageous stunts. Don't get me wrong: I appreciate a good (occasional) moonsault as much as the next guy. Sometimes, you’ve just got to slow things down and appreciate the finer points of the sport.
Back when I was a kid, the bouts were usually slow, methodical affairs, but the tension was palpable. Every move was deliberate; every counter precise. Wrestling was a masterclass in sporting artistry.
Nowadays, with all the flash and bombast, it’s easy to forget the beauty of simplicity. Yet, every once in a while, a wrestler comes along who reminds us of the golden age of scientific wrestling. Someone who can captivate an audience with a simple hold or transition. They’re a rare breed, but a breed worth cherishing.
Guys like Zack Sabre Jr. and Daniel Garcia are carrying the torch for the old-school style. They may not be as well-known as Hulk Hogan or The Rock, although I would argue they’re just as talented … if not more so.
Come to think of it, maybe things aren’t so bad these days. Maybe scientific wrestling is alive and well. Maybe we just need to pay more attention to the scientists.
FROM THE VAULT
The late Kevin Sullivan, leader of The Varsity Club, points to acolytes Rick Steiner and Mike Rotunda. All three members of this fearsome group boasted amateur wrestling credentials, ensuring their bark was matched by an equally fierce bite.