The spotlight often falls on the wrestlers in the world of professional wrestling. After all, they are the ones who perform high-flying moves and put on epic matches. But the truth is that professional wrestling is a team sport, and the success of the business depends heavily on unsung heroes like managers, valets, and enforcers. Much like how one might decide to sell cs2 skins for a strategic advantage, managers and their associated roles often bring a unique layer of strategy to the world of professional wrestling.
Roles and Their Importance
- Managers
A great manager can make a mediocre wrestler look like a world-beater simply by speaking on their behalf. Many of the best managers in history, such as Bobby “The Brain” Heenan, Jimmy Hart, and Paul Heyman, are remembered for their ability to make superstars shine, even if they never stepped foot in the ring.
Managers often play the role of a villain. They are seen manipulating matches to favor their wrestlers, distracting opponents, or causing interference in bouts. Their craft lies in knowing how to build heat (a wrestling term for getting the crowd emotionally invested, often in a negative way), and they do this by getting under the skin of the audience. In some cases, managers also provide physical protection for their wrestlers, as they ward off attacks from opponents or rival factions.
- Valets
Managers are the brains behind the operation, and valets often serve as the eye candy. They accompany wrestlers to the ring and add a touch of glamour and elegance. Historically, valets were women who would walk their male counterparts to the ring and offer moral support and occasionally, distraction. However, over time, the role of the valet has expanded, with many valets becoming integral parts of their wrestlers’ personas and even engaging in matches themselves.
They often add a layer of emotional investment to a wrestler’s character. They can play a key part in a storyline by being involved in rivalries, turning on their wrestler, or forming partnerships with other wrestlers.
Think of how Miss Elizabeth helped elevate Randy “Macho Man” Savage’s character or how Sable contributed to the rise of “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. These valets did more than just look good; they helped create memorable moments that shaped the sport’s history.
- Enforcers
Enforcers in pro wrestling are often the muscle behind the scenes. These are the individuals who are hired to intimidate or protect wrestlers, and sometimes serve as bodyguards, and take part in physical altercations during or outside of matches.
They are often portrayed as tough, no-nonsense characters who can swing the odds in favor of their affiliated wrestlers. They may not always have the technical wrestling ability of the athletes, but their role is indispensable.
In some cases, enforcers are used to establish a sense of danger, which makes it clear that a wrestler has someone in their corner who is willing to go to extreme lengths to ensure victory. These figures might not be as celebrated as the wrestlers they protect, but they often help intensify the rivalry and add more drama to the overall spectacle.
The Changing Nature of Their Roles in Modern Wrestling
In today’s WWE and AEW, managers and enforcers are often portrayed as more than just mouthpieces or muscle. They may be given more screen time and a more complex narrative, which adds layers of nuance to their characters.
Similarly, some wrestling promotions have moved away from the traditional “eye candy” role for valets, which has allowed these characters to become more active participants in storylines. Talents like Lana and Zelina Vega have proved to be more than just accessories to their male counterparts.
The lines between manager, valet, and wrestler are becoming increasingly blurred. More wrestling promotions are willing to give these supporting characters more depth and significance within the storyline.
To Review
The unsung heroes of pro wrestling—managers, valets, and enforcers—may not always get the recognition they deserve, but their contributions are essential to the success of wrestling storylines. They help elevate the characters, advance the drama, and create moments that captivate audiences.
These individuals bring a unique element to the sport and make it more than just a physical contest. Playing their roles effectively allows them to transform professional wrestling from simple athleticism into a multi-layered storytelling spectacle that continues to thrill audiences worldwide.
