Ever wondered what goes on behind the curtain in professional wrestling? It’s more than just athleticism and showmanship; it’s a world of complex characters, intense rivalries, and a whole lot of backstage drama. Luckily, there are some great books that pull back the curtain and give you a peek behind the scenes. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the business, these reads offer something for everyone.
Here’s a quick look at some of the top books we’ll be diving into:
- The Squared Circle: Life, Death, and Professional Wrestling by David Shoemaker (aka Deadspin’s Shoemaker): A critical look at the wrestling industry’s dark side.
- Have a Nice Day!: A Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks by Mick Foley: A hilarious and surprisingly heartfelt autobiography from the hardcore legend.
- Death Clutch: My Story of Determination, Domination, and Survival by Brock Lesnar: The story of Brock Lesnar’s journey from wrestling to MMA and back again.
- Sisterhood of the Squared Circle: The History and Rise of Women’s Wrestling by Pat Laprade and Dan Madigan: An overdue exploration of women’s contributions to wrestling.
- Wrestling for Dummies by Greg Oliver and Mike Mooneyham: A comprehensive guide to the basics of wrestling, perfect for newcomers.
Top 5 Best Books On Professional Wrestling
The Squared Circle: Life, Death, and Professional Wrestling
David Shoemaker, known as Deadspin’s Shoemaker, dives deep into the underbelly of professional wrestling. This isn’t your typical puff piece; it’s a critical examination of the industry’s toll on its performers.
Pros:
- ✅ Offers a realistic and often grim perspective on the wrestling business.
- ✅ Well-researched and insightful, providing a deeper understanding of the industry’s problems.
- ✅ Shoemaker’s writing is engaging and thought-provoking.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be depressing due to its focus on the negative aspects of wrestling.
- ❌ May not appeal to fans who prefer a more lighthearted view of the sport.
- ❌ Some readers may find Shoemaker’s tone overly critical.
Verdict: This book is perfect for wrestling fans who want a more nuanced and critical understanding of the industry, but be prepared for some tough truths.
Have a Nice Day!: A Tale of Blood and Sweatsocks
Mick Foley’s autobiography is a must-read for any wrestling fan. It’s funny, self-deprecating, and surprisingly touching, offering a behind-the-scenes look at his career and personal life.
Pros:
- ✅ Hilarious and entertaining, filled with Foley’s unique brand of humor.
- ✅ Provides an honest and vulnerable look at the life of a professional wrestler.
- ✅ Includes plenty of behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes.
Cons:
- ❌ Some readers may find Foley’s writing style a bit rambling at times.
- ❌ The book is quite long, which may be daunting for some readers.
- ❌ Contains graphic descriptions of violence and injuries, which may not be for everyone.
Verdict: If you’re looking for a funny, heartwarming, and sometimes shocking wrestling autobiography, this is the book for you. It’s a classic for a reason.
Death Clutch: My Story of Determination, Domination, and Survival
Brock Lesnar’s autobiography chronicles his journey from amateur wrestling to WWE superstar to UFC champion and back again. It’s a story of relentless drive and a refusal to be defeated.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides insight into Lesnar’s mindset and training methods.
- ✅ Covers his career in both professional wrestling and mixed martial arts.
- ✅ Offers a candid look at his personal struggles and triumphs.
Cons:
- ❌ Lesnar’s writing style can be a bit dry and straightforward.
- ❌ The book focuses heavily on his athletic achievements, with less emphasis on his personal life.
- ❌ Some readers may find Lesnar’s personality abrasive.
Verdict: This book is ideal for fans of Brock Lesnar and those interested in the mindset of a top-level athlete. If you want raw and unfiltered, this is it.
Sisterhood of the Squared Circle: The History and Rise of Women’s Wrestling
Pat Laprade and Dan Madigan shine a light on the often-overlooked history of women’s wrestling. This book celebrates the contributions of female wrestlers and explores the challenges they’ve faced.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a comprehensive and well-researched history of women’s wrestling.
- ✅ Highlights the achievements of many talented female wrestlers.
- ✅ Challenges the traditional narrative of wrestling history.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit academic in tone, which may not appeal to all readers.
- ❌ Focuses primarily on the historical aspects of women’s wrestling, with less emphasis on current performers.
- ❌ Some readers may find the book overly critical of the wrestling industry’s treatment of women.
Verdict: This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of women’s wrestling and the contributions of female performers. It’s an important and overdue addition to the wrestling literature.
Wrestling for Dummies
Greg Oliver and Mike Mooneyham deliver a comprehensive guide to the world of professional wrestling. It covers everything from the basics of wrestling moves to the history of the sport and the different wrestling promotions.
Pros:
- ✅ Provides a clear and concise overview of wrestling.
- ✅ Covers a wide range of topics, including wrestling history, terminology, and different wrestling styles.
- ✅ Easy to understand, even for complete beginners.
Cons:
- ❌ May be too basic for experienced wrestling fans.
- ❌ The “For Dummies” format can feel a bit simplistic at times.
- ❌ The book may not be completely up-to-date on the latest wrestling trends.
Verdict: This book is perfect for anyone who is new to wrestling and wants to learn the basics. It’s a great starting point for understanding the sport and its history. It’s like a wrestling 101 course in book form.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right wrestling book depends on what you’re looking for. Here are a few things to consider:
- Your Level of Knowledge: Are you a complete beginner or a longtime fan? If you’re new to wrestling, start with “Wrestling for Dummies.” If you’re a seasoned fan, consider something more in-depth like “The Squared Circle.”
- Your Interests: Are you interested in the history of wrestling, the personal stories of wrestlers, or the business side of the industry? Choose a book that aligns with your specific interests.
- Your Tolerance for Critical Perspectives: Some wrestling books are more critical of the industry than others. If you prefer a more positive and celebratory view of wrestling, avoid books like “The Squared Circle.”
- Author’s Credibility: Consider the author’s background and experience. Are they a respected wrestling journalist, a former wrestler, or an academic expert? A credible author is more likely to provide accurate and insightful information.
FAQs
Q: What’s the best wrestling autobiography?
A: Mick Foley’s “Have a Nice Day!” is widely considered one of the best wrestling autobiographies. It’s funny, honest, and full of great stories.
Q: Which book is best for understanding the dark side of wrestling?
A: “The Squared Circle” by David Shoemaker offers a critical and often grim perspective on the wrestling industry’s problems.
Q: Is “Wrestling for Dummies” really for dummies?
A: Yes, it’s designed for beginners! It explains the basics of wrestling in a clear and easy-to-understand way.
Q: Are there any good books about women’s wrestling?
A: “Sisterhood of the Squared Circle” is a great resource for learning about the history of women’s wrestling and the contributions of female wrestlers.
Q: Where can I buy these books?
A: All of these books are available on Amazon and at most major bookstores.
Conclusion
So, there you have it – my top picks for the best books on professional wrestling. Whether you’re after a laugh, a critical analysis, or just a solid introduction to the sport, there’s something on this list for you. Grab one (or all!) of these books and dive deeper into the fascinating world of professional wrestling. You might just learn something new, or at least have a good time doing it.
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