Ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls, wrestling fans of all ages – get ready to be body-slammed by the electrifying world of wrestling here in Bangkok, Thailand!
All photography by Neil Shelley
Wrestling has been the ultimate spectacle, uniting fans in a chorus of cheers, jeers, and sheer adrenaline. Thailand, traditionally celebrated for its fierce kicks and elbow strikes, is now witnessing a rise in suplexes, powerbombs, and high-flying luchador moves.
The wrestling fever is spreading faster than a "RKO outta nowhere," and trust me, it's not just about catching the latest RAW or SmackDown episodes online. It's about the local heroes, and the drama that unfolds in the Thai wrestling rings. So, whether you're a die-hard wrestling aficionado or just stepping into this world, tighten your ropes and get ready!
The Global Phenomenon: Wrestling
Step back in time, and you'll find wrestling's roots intertwined with the very fabric of ancient civilizations. From the sun-baked arenas of Egypt to the grand coliseums of Rome, wrestling was more than just a sport—it was a spectacle, a dance of strength and strategy that captivated emperors and commoners alike.
Fast forward to today, and wrestling has transformed into a global juggernaut. It's not just about two competitors grappling in the ring; it's a theatrical masterpiece, complete with larger-than-life personas, heart-stopping narratives, and moments that echo in eternity.
Think of the deafening roar when Hulk Hogan body-slammed Andre the Giant, or the collective gasp when The Undertaker's undefeated streak at WrestleMania was broken. These aren't just matches; they're moments etched in the annals of entertainment.
While many believe that the Golden Era of Wrestling has passed, its influence has resonated with and inspired a global audience, planting the seeds for a potential resurgence on an entirely new continent.
SETUP: The Rise of Wrestling in Thailand
While wrestling has been a global sensation, especially in the United States, Thailand had its own journey to embrace this sport. For years, Thai fans watched wrestling from afar, but the desire to have a local wrestling scene was palpable. This dream turned into reality when "Setup Thailand Pro Wrestling" was founded. The brainchild of Pumi Prachaphumi Bunyatat and Paksa Pichet Kwayproperty, these two visionaries not only brought wrestling to Thailand but also created a unique subculture for Thai wrestling enthusiasts.
Their journey wasn't without challenges. While wrestling on stages is a norm in the West, especially in the style of WWE, the Thai audience had to adapt to this new format from the traditional wrestling on mats. But the founders of Setup Thailand Pro Wrestling were determined to elevate Thai wrestling to match the global standards and cater to the local audience's expectations.
The community around Setup Thailand Pro Wrestling is vibrant and passionate. Fans don't just come to watch; they immerse themselves in the experience. From dressing up to trading merchandise, every event becomes a gathering of like-minded enthusiasts. The community's growth is evident with more young aspirants joining the training ranks, hoping to make their mark in Thai wrestling.
SETUP Episodes: PRO WRESTLING LIVE IN BANGKOK
🎟️ Tickets
SETUP Pro Wrestling puts on regular Live Wrestling Events in Bangkok at The Circus Studio in Lad Phrao. You can buy tickets online or at the door - Tickets sell out fast!
If you end up empty-handed, you can tune into SETUP's Facebook Live-Stream to watch Wrestling online and not miss out on the latest developments. Nothing will beat a live event, but the ability to watch SETUP Wrestling online speaks to the organizations professionalism & production!
While many wrestling promotions globally focus on the physical prowess of their athletes, SETUP Wrestling delves deeper. They understand that the heart and soul of wrestling lie not just in the moves executed inside the ring but in the stories told and the characters that come to life.
Character development and intricate storylines are paramount for SETUP Wrestling. Each wrestler isn't just an athlete; they're a character with depth, motivations, and a story to tell. This emphasis on narrative-driven wrestling sets SETUP apart. Fans eagerly await each event, speculating on potential outcomes, discussing possible twists, and debating the future trajectories of their favorite characters. This level of secrecy ensures that every match is a must-watch, every storyline a topic of discussion.
The organization & wrestlers constantly cooperate across borders with other promotions in South East Asia. Predominantly, their connection with Japan, a country with a rich wrestling heritage and renowned for its experienced wrestling scene, is noteworthy.
These collaborations are not just about showcasing talent but are a platform for exchanging trade secrets, discussing storyline developments, and ensuring that the world of wrestling remains fresh, innovative, and captivating.
Want to get a glimpse into a SETUP Wrestling event? Check out this Episode!
SETUP Training Grounds: Pro Wrestling School
The rising popularity of wrestling has spurred many to learn its techniques firsthand. This enthusiasm stems from the sport's multifaceted benefits:
Fitness: Wrestling offers a full-body workout, enhancing strength, agility, and cardiovascular health. It benefits your overall athleticism.
Self-Defense: The skills acquired, from holds to takedowns, are invaluable for real-life defense situations.
Entertainment: Understanding the sport's nuances heightens the enjoyment of watching matches and allows participation in amateur events.
I will not disclose the location here, but there is probably only one single place in Bangkok where Pro Wrestling Talent comes together to train & gather.
It's a small scene! If you have ambitions to become a professional wrestler you best reach out to one of the Wrestler or the Organization itself to take you under their wings.
P.S.: I've joined the first hour of a training session myself and contrary to my belief, it's much less about strength & muscle than it is about coordination & timing!
PSE - Paradise Sports Entertainment Wrestling
There have not been many (or any) real alternatives to SETUP Wrestling in Thailand for a decade, but the recent rise of Thai Pro Wrestling has spurred the ambitions of a popular baby-face wrestler who goes by the name of Sunny Z., to open up shop in Pattaya, Thailand.
Contrary to the strict, traditional form of wrestling entertainment, PSE focuses more on show & entertainment for the tourism industry. Although it's less about developing storylines, PSE delivers athletic, professional wrestling shows with a mix of international & local talent!
PSE - WATCH PRO WRESTLING LIVE IN PATTAYA
🎟️ Tickets
Yes, Wrestling in Pattaya! It's a great addition to the colorful entertainment mix Pattaya has to offer. Everybody just wants to have a good time and that's what Sunny is aiming for with PSE Paradise Sports Entertainment.
PSE held it's first show this year in August 2023, supported by a lot of familiar wrestlers from SETUP Wrestling. It had it's challenges due to a sudden Typhoon flooding the streets of Pattaya in minutes before the doors to the event where about to open.
After a slightly delayed premier, everybody who showed up left with a big smile and good energy, swearing to come back visiting their next event! 99 Live House offers Wrestlers a very long entrance they can leverage for an entertaining entree into the ring.
PSE Wrestlers place emphasis on involving the audience & delivering an energizing performance! There is little to no banter inside the ring - The music is turned up immediately, followed by flying fists, close-lines & dropkicks!
If you're visiting Pattaya and are looking for a fun night out, PSE Pro Wrestling is a must-visit event for you and your friends!
PSE - Pattaya Pro Wrestling: A New Chapter in Thai Wrestling
There is a lot more to come for wrestling enthusiasts visiting Pattaya! Although PSE has just opened it's doors in 2023, it's aim is to source a wide variety of local talent & ambitious amateurs, mixing with international talent from South East Asia, Star appearances from the United States and established Thai Wrestlers in crossover matches.
If you have ambitions of becoming a Pro Wrestler in Thailand, the entree barrier is quite low right now! Being a character with a good frame & gimmick might already get you under the wing of Sunny Z. to properly train & prepare you for your first Wrestling match. Follow PSE on Instagram and reach out in person if you have ever considered to be a Pro Wrestler based in Thailand!
Behind the Scenes: Exposed Pro Wrestling's Greatest Secrets 🤫
Professional wrestling has always been a spectacle that captivates audiences worldwide. But beyond the high-flying moves, dramatic entrances, and intense rivalries lies a world shrouded in mystery. Let's dive into the well-guarded secrets of pro wrestling and uncover how these elements amplify the entertainment quotient.
The Art of Kayfabe: One of the foundational secrets of pro wrestling is 'kayfabe.' This term refers to the portrayal of events in wrestling as real, even when they are staged or scripted. Maintaining kayfabe ensures that the lines between reality and fiction are blurred, allowing fans to immerse themselves fully in the storyline.
Scripted, Not Fake: While matches are pre-determined, calling wrestling 'fake' is a misnomer. The physicality is real, and the risks are genuine. Wrestlers train rigorously to execute moves safely, but injuries are an occupational hazard. The predetermined outcomes allow for storytelling, building rivalries, and ensuring that the narrative flows seamlessly from one event to the next.
Selling the Move: 'Selling' in wrestling refers to the art of making a move or attack look as impactful as possible. Whether it's wincing in pain from a submission hold or staggering from a powerful slam, selling enhances the drama and makes the action believable.
Heels and Babyfaces: In the wrestling world, characters are everything. 'Heels' are the villains, the characters fans love to hate, while 'babyfaces' or 'faces' are the heroes, the crowd's darlings. These roles can switch, with dramatic 'heel turns' or 'face turns' adding layers to the storyline.
The Wordbook of Wrestling 📓
For those diving into the world of professional wrestling, the unique jargon can sometimes feel like a language of its own. Here's an expanded glossary to help you navigate the colorful and dynamic terminology of the squared circle:
Babyface (or Face): The hero or good guy in wrestling. They're the characters that the audience roots for and are typically portrayed as valiant and honorable.
Heel: The opposite of a babyface, a heel is the villain or bad guy. They often use underhanded tactics and are characters fans love to hate.
Turn: When a wrestler switches their alignment. A 'heel turn' is when a babyface becomes a villain, and a 'face turn' is when a heel becomes a hero.
Putting Someone Over: When a wrestler loses a match to make their opponent look strong and credible. It's a way of endorsing or giving a boost to another wrestler's status.
Stiff: When moves are executed with more force than necessary, making them look more realistic but also increasing the risk of real injury.
Sell: The act of making a move or hold look as painful and realistic as possible, even if it didn't hurt that much.
No-Sell: When a wrestler doesn't act hurt after a move, essentially not giving their opponent's move any credibility.
Pop: A positive reaction from the audience, usually in the form of cheers.
Heat: A negative reaction from the crowd. Heels often aim to get heat to establish themselves as villains.
Mark: Originally a term for fans who believed wrestling was real. Now, it often refers to a passionate fan, regardless of their belief in the authenticity of match outcomes.
Work: A staged or scripted aspect of wrestling.
Shoot: When something in wrestling is genuine or unscripted. A 'shoot fight' is a real fight, and a 'shoot interview' is when a wrestler speaks candidly without staying in character.
Kayfabe: The portrayal of events in wrestling as real, even when they are staged or scripted. It's the code of secrecy that keeps the illusion of wrestling alive.
Blade: A small piece of razor used to cut oneself to induce bleeding, making a match seem more violent.
Bump: The act of taking a fall or being thrown to the mat.
Tag Team: A match where each side has two or more wrestlers, and members switch in and out.
Promo: A speech or interview segment where a wrestler talks about themselves, their opponent, or the storyline they're involved in.
Finisher: A wrestler's signature move, usually used to end a match.
Push: When a wrestler receives a lot of attention and wins to build them up as a major character.
Buried: When a wrestler is made to look weak, often by losing frequently or being portrayed negatively.
This glossary is just the tip of the iceberg, as the world of wrestling is rich with its own language and nuances. But with this guide in hand, fans can better understand and appreciate the intricate dance of drama, athleticism, and storytelling that unfolds in the ring.
All Images provided by:
Neil Shelley
What are your thoughts about the Thai Wrestling Scene? IT DOESN'T MATTER WHAT YOU THINK! 🎤 🤨
