Shocking: Fighting With My Family

Life as a Professional Wrestler and the Indie Scene

The Role of Authenticity in the Wrestling Industry

The life of a professional wrestler is a blend of athleticism and showmanship. Wrestlers must embody their characters both inside and outside the ring, a process that requires a deep understanding of the craft. Saraya, a prominent name in this industry, reflects on the advice she gave to actress Florence Pugh, who portrayed Saraya herself in the 2019 biopic “Fighting With My Family.” Saraya’s insight into the nuances of wrestling as an actor underscores the importance of authenticity and the need to treat the performance aspect of wrestling with the same dedication as a live performance.

The Indie Scene and Its Impact on Professional Wrestling

The independent wrestling scene is a breeding ground for aspiring wrestlers, offering opportunities to hone their skills in a less polished environment than mainstream wrestling. Saraya, like many others, cut her teeth in the indie scene, where the physical and mental demands are just as stringent as those in larger organizations. In an interview with Lightweights, Saraya shared that the transition from indie to WWE required a recalibration of her approach to the sport, highlighting the significant differences between the two worlds.

The Differences Between TV Wrestling and Independent Wrestling

Physical and Mental Demands of a Wrestler’s Career

The world of professional wrestling is deeply divided into TV and independent wrestling, each requiring a unique set of skills and mental fortitude. Independent wrestling, often staged in smaller venues, places a higher emphasis on the physicality of the match, with wrestlers often pushing their bodies to the limit in every bout. In contrast, TV wrestling is more about the performance aspect, aligning more closely with the world of acting.

Adaptability and Resilience in the Face of Challenges

Adapting to these different environments is a critical skill for any wrestler. Eddie Kingston, known for his work in both TV and independent circuits, discussed his experiences in an interview with Colt Cabana on the “Art of Wrestling” podcast. Kingston’s candid discussion about his steroid use and the transition into TV wrestling underscores the resilience required to navigate the contrasting demands of the two sectors. He highlighted the backstage and in-ring differences, noting that the behind-the-scenes aspects of TV wrestling required a different set of skills and a steep learning curve.

Saraya’s Memoir and Career Reflections

The Process of Writing “Hell in Boots”: A Personal Journey

Saraya’s memoir, “Hell in Boots: Clawing My Way Through Nine Lives,” is a testament to the wrestler’s journey from the indies to WWE and back again. The book, released last week, delves into the personal and professional hurdles she has faced. Saraya shared that the memoir took two years to complete, a process she described as a ‘tough write.’ The book not only reflects on her career but also serves as a guide for aspiring wrestlers, sharing the lessons learned from years in the ring.

Lessons Learned and the Wrestling World

The wrestling world, with its unique blend of sport and entertainment, has its share of lessons that extend beyond the physical. Saraya’s reflection on her career path emphasizes the importance of adaptability and resilience. The memoir provides a candid look at the discipline and dedication required to succeed, both in the independent scene and in the more structured environment of WWE. It underscores the necessity of staying true to oneself and maintaining a sense of authenticity in the face of industry pressures.

Significance of Authenticity and Honesty

The wrestling industry, like any other, thrives on the authenticity of its performers. Saraya’s advice to Florence Pugh about treating the performance as acting but with the added challenge of a live audience, highlights the need for wrestlers to be honest with their craft. The authenticity that Saraya and many other wrestlers bring to their performances is the backbone of the industry’s appeal, fostering a connection with the audience that transcends the scripted nature of the sport.

The World of Professional Wrestling

The Intersection of Acting and Wrestling

Professional wrestling is more than just the physical combat seen on screen; it is an intricate blend of acting and athleticism. Wrestlers like Saraya must possess the ability to portray their characters convincingly, drawing on acting techniques to connect with the audience. The transition from indie to TV wrestling, as described by Eddie Kingston, demonstrates the crossover between the two worlds, where the skills of acting and wrestling are seamlessly integrated. Kingston’s experience with the WWE tryouts, as he mentioned to Cabana, illustrates the importance of understanding the nuances of both acting and wrestling.

The Physical and Mental Demands of a Wrestler’s Career

Professional wrestling demands a high level of physical and mental stamina. Wrestlers such as Saraya and Eddie Kingston face rigorous schedules and intense physical training to maintain their performance quality. The physical demands are compounded by the mental stress of portraying a character and performing under the scrutiny of a live audience, a challenge that only adds to the complexity of the role. The mental resilience required to navigate the ups and downs of the industry is just as crucial as the physical prowess.

The Importance of Resilience and Adaptability

Resilience and adaptability are key traits for a professional wrestler. The ability to adjust to the varying demands of the independent and TV wrestling worlds is a testament to the wrestler’s versatility. Saraya’s journey from the indie scene to WWE and back to the indies showcases her adaptability. Similarly, Eddie Kingston’s experience with steroid use and his return to the independent scene after a stint in GFW highlights the resilience needed to face and overcome personal and professional challenges.