I asked ChatGPT… “What do pro wrestlers do backstage while waiting for their match?”
ChatGPT said:
Backstage at a pro wrestling event, wrestlers do a surprising variety of things while waiting for their match. It’s not all hype and yelling like you see on TV. Here’s an objective, realistic look at what really happens behind the curtain:
1. Mentally Rehearsing Their Match
Most wrestlers spend time reviewing their match step-by-step in their heads. Many talk with their opponent to confirm spots (planned moves), transitions, and the overall flow of the match. Some performers even walk through parts of the match physically to get the timing and positioning right.
2. Receiving Instructions
Wrestlers usually meet with agents (producers) who remind them of what the company wants out of their match: the length of the bout, who wins, key storytelling moments, and whether they need to “get over” (make someone look good).
3. Warming Up Physically
Just like other athletes, wrestlers stretch, do calisthenics, and sometimes light cardio to get loose. Some bring resistance bands or small weights. Staying warm reduces the chance of injury.
4. Taping and Gear Prep
A lot of time is spent putting on ring gear, lacing boots, applying wrist tape, knee braces, and other protective measures. Some wear elaborate costumes or apply body paint or makeup.
5. Promo Work & Interviews
If they have to cut a promo (backstage or live), they may rehearse lines or improvise ideas. WWE and AEW especially require some to film short segments throughout the evening.
6. Chatting and Socializing
The locker room is like any workplace—guys joke, talk sports, complain about travel, share gossip, or quietly keep to themselves. Some veterans hold court telling stories; others scroll their phones or play handheld games.
7. Resting or Meditating
Some wrestlers sit quietly, listen to music, or even nap if they’ve got a long wait (TV tapings can last 4–6 hours or more).
8. Getting Medical Attention
Many see trainers for pre-match massages, joint adjustments, or treatment on nagging injuries. Ice packs, heat pads, and painkillers are common.
9. Meeting with Creative/Management
If there’s a sudden storyline change or special instruction, talent may get pulled aside by a booker, writer, or even the boss (like Triple H or Tony Khan) to discuss angle adjustments.
10. Last-Minute Match Changes
In TV wrestling especially, plans change constantly. Wrestlers have to stay alert for sudden “rewrites” of match finishes, time cuts, or character direction.
Things they usually don’t do:
- Get drunk or high before matches (against policy these days)
- Start fights (locker room fights are rare now, but not impossible)
- Sit in their gear all day (many put on gear closer to match time)
In short: it’s half locker room, half theater green room, part gym, part workplace lounge.
Not glamorous—just controlled chaos mixed with quiet professionalism.
Then I asked:
And afterwards?
ChatGPT said:
After their match, pro wrestlers go through a very different backstage routine that reflects exhaustion, relief, and a return to reality. Here’s an objective view of what typically happens:
1. Cool-Down and Physical Recovery
Most wrestlers are physically drained after a match—even short ones. They cool down by:
- Stretching to prevent stiffness.
- Applying ice packs to joints or injuries.
- Seeing the trainers for quick medical checks, massages, or injury treatment.
- Cleaning wounds or dealing with cuts (especially if “blading” was involved).
2. Debrief with Producers/Agents
They usually meet with the agent or producer who oversaw the match to review how things went:
- Did the match tell the story management wanted?
- Were the key moments or “spots” executed well?
- Were there any timing issues, missed cues, or botches?
This feedback may be short or detailed, depending on the match’s importance.
3. Talking with Their Opponent
Wrestlers often shake hands, hug, or quietly thank their opponent—even if the match was rough. This is a sign of mutual respect and tradition. They might discuss what worked, what didn’t, and laugh about unexpected mistakes.
4. Shower and Change
Once the immediate post-match duties are done, they’ll hit the showers and change into street clothes. Some wrestlers leave as soon as their obligations are over; others stick around until the show wraps.
5. Eating or Rehydrating
Many grab food, protein shakes, or water afterward. Some venues provide catering; others require wrestlers to bring their own food.
6. Socializing or Decompressing
Back in the locker room, wrestlers might relax, joke about the night, or catch up with old friends—especially if they haven’t seen each other in a while. Others sit quietly, reflecting or scrolling on their phones.
7. Filming Additional Segments
If required, some talent must film backstage promos, vignettes, or social media content post-match. WWE and AEW sometimes grab wrestlers for “digital exclusive” promos right after their bout.
8. Checking Social Media or Online Reaction
Many wrestlers check their phones to see fan reactions, Twitter trends, or if their match made an impact online.
9. Handling Injuries
If someone got hurt—even slightly—they’ll likely visit the medical staff for more serious assessment. If a real injury occurred, they may be rushed to the hospital, especially in major promotions.
10. Travel Planning
If they’re not staying overnight, some wrestlers change and head straight to the airport or their car to drive to the next town. Independent wrestlers especially may hit the road immediately after a show to make the next booking.
Things That Rarely Happen After a Match:
- Arguing with fans or critics (unprofessional and avoided).
- Long celebrations backstage (unless a major title win or debut).
- Lingering in gear—most want to get clean and comfortable as soon as possible.
In short: After the match is about recovery, respect, and preparation for the next one. There’s little glamour—just the routine of exhausted athletes who know another fight is always coming.
Then i asked:
Are fans ever allowed backstage?
ChatGPT said:
Very rarely—but it does happen under strict, controlled conditions.
Here’s the honest breakdown of when and how fans might get backstage at a wrestling event:
1. Special Contests & Promotions
- Some promotions (like WWE, AEW, Impact) occasionally run contests—radio giveaways, sweepstakes, charity auctions—where the grand prize is a “backstage experience.”
- These winners are usually chaperoned the entire time by staff and are not allowed to roam freely.
2. VIP Packages (Rare)
- Certain very high-priced VIP or “Superfan” packages (sometimes offered at WrestleMania or other major PPVs) may include limited backstage tours—but these are rare and limited to specific areas, away from the locker rooms or production zones.
- Fans might meet a few wrestlers designated for that purpose, not the whole roster.
3. Friends & Family of Talent
- Wrestlers sometimes invite family members, personal friends, or trusted guests backstage.
- These guests stay in controlled areas and are typically required to keep out of sensitive spots like gorilla position (the area behind the entrance ramp) or creative meetings.
4. Make-A-Wish or Charity Guests
- WWE is famous for its Make-A-Wish program, giving critically ill children the chance to meet superstars backstage.
- These experiences are highly organized, carefully managed, and limited in scope.
5. Industry Insiders or Media
- Occasionally, wrestling journalists, podcasters, or documentary crews are allowed limited backstage access for interviews or behind-the-scenes footage.
- These are also heavily supervised.
What is NEVER Allowed for Regular Fans:
- Roaming unsupervised backstage.
- Access to locker rooms, private areas, or booking meetings.
- Hanging around “gorilla position” or production areas.
- Crashing or sneaking in (arena security is strict—especially post-9/11 and post-pandemic).
Independent Wrestling (Indies):
- At small indie shows, the line can blur.
- Sometimes trusted local fans or friends of promoters can help with ring setup or hang around backstage—but even this depends on the promotion’s professionalism.
- Still, even here, locker room areas are often considered “sacred” and private.
Wrestler’s Perspective:
Most wrestlers strongly prefer backstage areas to remain closed to outsiders. It’s where they warm up, focus, plan matches, and sometimes deal with injuries or emotions after tough bouts. Having random fans there breaks that sense of safety and privacy.
Summary (No Hype):
Fans are occasionally allowed backstage—but only under very controlled, special circumstances. For most events, backstage remains strictly off-limits to protect the wrestlers, the show’s secrets, and the integrity of the performance.
Steve Holder 