The Role of Planted Audiences in WWE: Fact vs. Fiction
Wrestling fans often wonder how WWE manages to create such enthusiastic and engaging crowds. Many believe that WWE plants people in the audience to start chants or reactions. However, is this claim based in reality? This article explores the truth behind this hypothesis and delves into the methods used by WWE to manage crowd reactions.
WWE's Current Practices
WWE does actively encourage a lively atmosphere in their events. They have several strategies in place to generate organic crowd reactions, and they may even have some influence over how the crowd behaves. However, firm evidence supporting the claim that WWE specifically plants individuals to initiate chants remains elusive.
WWE often promotes certain storylines or characters to boost fan engagement. In large arenas, collective enthusiasm can lead to spontaneous participation in chants. Furthermore, crowd control is crucial for maintaining a dynamic and exciting show. WWE uses various techniques to manage and enhance audience reactions, and these methods can be subtle.
The Role of Sound Production
It's important to recognize that WWE uses sound production to enhance and edit their crowds. During live broadcasts, they may add canned audience noise to the speakers if the crowd is too quiet. This can be done live or in post-production. These practices suggest that WWE often plants members to make the audience appear more full, whether it's fans or security personnel. Sitting in the front rows are often reserved for VIPs, special guests, or super fans who gladly pay top dollar for ringside seats.
Historical Context
WWE's practices are not unique in the world of professional wrestling. In fact, it's a common industry standard. WCW, a competitor of WWE, was rumored to have fed the "Goldberg" chant through the speakers to heighten crowd enthusiasm during events. Even more strikingly, the documentary EXPOSED! Pro Wrestling's Greatest Secrets revealed that promoters would often hand out signs to fans and even plant people in the crowd to influence reactions.
Fan Engagement vs. Reality
Some fans believe that WWE stages chants and cheers to make heel or face characters more believable. While this may seem convenient, it's worth noting that WWE does edit chants out of their shows. For instance, there were accusations that WWE toned down the booing of Seth Rollins in replays of scenes from Raw.
However, the reality is that fans play a significant role in creating the energy and atmosphere at WWE events. While it may appear almost entirely staged, it's a combination of crowd control techniques, professional production, and genuine fan enthusiasm. It's a carefully crafted balance that contributes to the entertainment value of WWE shows.
Conclusion
The role of planted audiences in WWE is complex and multifaceted. While WWE employs various methods to enhance crowd reactions, the authenticity and energy of their events are largely driven by genuine fan engagement. Understanding these practices helps fans appreciate the skill and artistry that goes into creating a thrilling and impactful wrestling spectacle.