IWC, WWE, TNA, Must Stop with Comparisons of Past and Present Superstars

Of all the things that irk me about the various promotions, the incessant comparisons by fans, performers and the promotions themselves either top my list or run a close second. The ugliest is christening a young wrestler as the reincarnation of a past superstar.

I find it infuriating when statements like this are uttered across the spectrum. We all know there will never be another Ali in boxing, another Jordan in basketball, another DiMaggio or Cobb in baseball.

Wrestling is no different.

It demeans all when such comparisons are made. Past generations, present stars and the future stars yet to reach their potential and shine brightly or flame out. Any attempts to compartmentalize an individual by saying they're the next so-and-so is disrespectful and wrong.

Better to say, "that young wrestler reminds me of a recognized superstar after a jaw dropping, spectacular moment."

Homage is paid to both individuals, and there is no slight, perceived or actual.

Fans of all ages can acknowledge wrestling is at a crossroads today.  Too many of its brethren have passed away prematurely, many more have retired due to injuries, or other problems. 

Understandably, this has left a void that must be filled with inexperienced souls trying their best to stand in the tall shadows before them.

However, it is a backhanded compliment to be compared to superstars unless they stand across from each other in the ring. It may be flattering for John Morrison to be compared to HBK, but it's insulting to both Morrison and his opponent performing in the ring.  The focus should be on the current roster, and not so much with the wistful ruminations of past glory. Same goes for any reference to any superstar not actively participating on the roster.

Acknowledge the past, great.

Clips and video packages stir more memories and smiles than taking the focus off the people in the ring working to earn a legacy like those that came before them. Dusty Rhodes and Arn Anderson work backstage, and the occasional glimpses we see of them or precious few sentences they utter have more impact than the constant references we hear of other legends.

"Macho Man" Randy Savage died of a heart attack.  He hasn't been mentioned, used, referenced or had his existence or contribution to the company mentioned in several years.  Undoubtedly on Raw this Monday, he was, and deservedly so.

If WWE had given him a full blown memorial show, I would have been shocked, but I admire Vince for setting aside grudges and commemorating the life of one of his greatest superstars.

My more cynical side said we would get a brief video package and a little "Pomp and Circumstance." Anything was better than the deafening silence we have been given for so many long years.

RIP Mr. Poffo. 

How can either of the three most recognizable promotions ever hope to attract viable talent, or entice them from the lure of UFC, if all they ever see is endless mentions of past legends browbeating the current roster?

One cannot dream of rising to the heights of popularity if all of us keep putting glass ceilings up and saying you can only attain this level of immortality, the higher echelon is closed off to you.

By tagging anyone as the next whatever, it's a burden to carry and a burden to shrug off in the quest to find their own identity and carve out a unique niche that is all their own.

Let's slow down and let these guys fly or fall awhile before putting more weight on them than they already carry.  Isn't the viability of the company, their profits and ultimately their continued existence enough for now?

Let's kick back, enjoy the show and see where they go.