In the world of professional wrestling, where athleticism meets storytelling, the creative process behind the spectacle is as intricate as the moves performed in the ring. At Valor Pro Wrestling, owner and head of creative Joe Money masterminds the narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats, weaving together character development, athletic prowess, and dramatic storytelling into a cohesive entertainment experience.
Pro wrestling’s enduring appeal stems from compelling narratives of intense drama, combined with the awe-inspiring athleticism and spectacular showmanship of its performers. Creative writing in professional wrestling is a core function of the industry and is critical to any company’s success.
Characters are a key ingredient in any fictional story, and in pro wrestling, without them, there is nothing. The men and women who train their minds and harden their bodies to the abuse of the art form they love is where it all begins. And that, too, is where the biggest challenge lies when crafting the stories, the reason for the matches.
When asked how he crafts long-term story-lines for his roster, Joe Money talked about the challenges he faces before he gets too far into the process. Though he starts with a general outline and direction for each of his characters, there are other factors to consider. Chief among them is show budgets and talents being available on the dates needed. Once those hurdles are cleared, he goes deeper.
“Minute by minute, that’s how I build story-lines. Who’s holding the belt? Who’s chasing the person who’s holding the belt? We build the major story lines around our two champions. Once we know our major stories we’re telling, we figure out smaller stories to tell in the background… It’s all about the chase, and the good guy finally getting the bad guy or [sometimes it’s the other way around].” -Joe Money
Independent professional wrestlers are already their own characters. They come ready to work in gear and a gimmick, which they themselves have defined. How does the show’s booker communicate and collaborate with the talent, adhering to the script while still providing talent the creative freedom they do, both in the ring and on the microphone?
“I look at it like this. I drew a picture, it’s a coloring page now… I also left a color key on the sheet, so I want the bird to be green and this is why… I don’t care how you get the bird green, it can be crayons, marker, [paint whatever], but by the end of the match, I need you to have finished that coloring sheet with all the right colors… [How you get there is all you].”-Joe Money
Joe Money illustrates the importance of providing structure and consistency when he lays out story related expectations to the roster, while cleverly guarding trade secrets, maintaining kayfabe. He understands the value in his approach of staying flexible and allowing talent, the platform and opportunity to shine in their own unique ways.
When talented wrestlers are given the freedom to express themselves within a supportive environment, the matches and stories they tell become a truly captivating blend of athleticism and artistry. And when performers connect with their audience personally, sharing relatable stories that resonate deeply, it fosters a bond that extends beyond the performance, making us care about them as individuals. Thus, enriching this pastime, beloved by many, with new techniques and approaches that enhance its appeal.
Written By: Joe Tate
