The Peril of ”Burying” Former Colleagues: A Veteran’s Perspective on Loyalty in Pro Wrestling
The world of professional wrestling is a unique one, built on spectacle, athleticism, and a surprisingly tight-knit community. Recently, comments made by a prominent figure sparked a debate about loyalty and the unspoken rules within the industry. It’s a conversation I’ve had countless times over my decades involved, and one that goes to the core of building lasting relationships – and a triumphant career.
It’s understandable to feel a certain way when you hear someone publicly criticize their former employers or colleagues. However,experience has taught me that such behavior often reveals more about the person making the comments than the peopel they’re criticizing. It’s a red flag, frankly.
Why Public Criticism Backfires
So, why does this “burying” of past associates raise concerns? Let’s break it down:
It Signals Inauthenticity: When someone instantly jumps to negativity about those they’ve worked with, it suggests they’re telling you what they think you wont to hear. You want genuine connection, not a performance.
It Foreshadows Future Betrayal: The wrestling business is cyclical. People move on, contracts expire, and situations change. If someone is willing to publicly disparage former colleagues, what’s to stop them from doing the same to you when they inevitably move on?
It Erodes Trust: Trust is paramount in any professional habitat, but especially in one as collaborative as wrestling.Constant negativity breeds suspicion and makes it arduous to build a strong, reliable team.
The Hiring Manager’s Instinct
Throughout my career, I developed a pretty speedy read on people. You could often tell within minutes of meeting someone – especially those coming from a rival organization – whether they were genuinely interested in contributing or simply looking for an opportunity to air grievances.
If a candidate immediatly started criticizing their previous employer, it was a major warning sign. It wasn’t about whether their criticisms were valid; it was about how* they chose to express them. It demonstrated a lack of professionalism and a potential for future instability.
I always prioritized building a team of individuals who were focused on the present and future,not dwelling on the past. You need people who are constructive, not destructive.
The Long Game: Loyalty and Reputation
Ultimately,your reputation is everything in this business. You want to be known as someone who is reliable, respectful, and trustworthy. Publicly attacking former colleagues does the opposite.
it’s a short-sighted strategy that can have long-term consequences. While it might generate some temporary buzz, it ultimately damages your credibility and limits your opportunities. You’re burning bridges that you might need to cross later.
Consider this: everyone eventually moves on. Whether you’re fired, you quit, or you simply decide to pursue a different path, your professional journey will inevitably lead you elsewhere. You don’t want to leave a trail of negativity in your wake.
A Matter of Character
At the end of the day, it comes down to character.You want to surround yourself with people who possess integrity, loyalty, and a genuine respect for others. It’s not about ignoring legitimate issues; it’s about addressing them with professionalism and discretion.
Choosing to elevate others, rather than tear them down, is a sign of strength and maturity. It’s a quality that will serve you well, not just in wrestling, but in all aspects of your life.It’s a lesson I’ve learned over many years, and one I believe is worth sharing.