NFL legend Jason Kelce has defended pro wrestling from detractors who dismiss those who risk their bodies in the ring as ‘fake.’ Speaking on the Rich Eisen Show, Kelce pointed at the fallacy of those who criticize wrestling but still enjoy other scripted entertainment.
“People say wrestling is fake. So is the TV show you’re watching. You can still have a level of respect for the amazing physical specimens doing outrageous things.”
Kelce grew up watching both WWE and WCW, though never really got into WrestleMania until he was invited to participate. At this year’s event, Kelce and Lane Johnson helped Rey Mysterio and Andrade defeat Santos Escobar and Dominik Mysterio. Although Kelce didn’t take any bumps at WrestleMania 40, it was important to him to gain a painful education about what wrestlers put themselves through.
“I learned how to bump, how to clothesline, how to get slapped in the chest and act like it doesn’t hurt. It actually does hurt.”
While some still put down wrestling as fake, many are wise to the fact that while pre-determined, those who step into the ring take genuine risks in the name of entertainment. Kelce has yet to make an appearance for WWE since WrestleMania, but if he does, the former offensive lineman will return to the squared circle with a genuine respect and appreciation for the Superstars.