For decades, Dave Meltzer has been a prominent figure in the wrestling community, known for his match ratings in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter.
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For decades, Dave Meltzer has been a prominent figure in the wrestling community, known for his match ratings in the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. His assessments have ignited conversations and debates among wrestling enthusiasts, shaping perceptions of in-ring performances. Aron Stevens, formerly Damien Sandow in WWE and currently NWA’s Aron Stevens, recently shared his candid thoughts on Meltzer’s rating system during an appearance on the “Wrestling Perspective Podcast” by Fightful.
Stevens questioned the essence of Meltzer’s rating system, highlighting its contrast with his own understanding of the wrestling business. He stated, “What Meltzer thinks the wrestling business is, it is not.” He criticized the system’s focus on athleticism, pointing out instances where iconic clashes like those involving Hulk Hogan and The Rock received less than five stars. Stevens candidly expressed his incredulity, exclaiming, “Dude, what is wrong with you? Come on, you nitwit. Look, I don’t know him; I’ve never met him. Certainly, I’ve never gotten a five-star match from him. However, I don’t need a five-star rating because I am a star.”
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Meltzer had previously shed light on his match rating criteria, emphasizing a comprehensive evaluation that takes into account various factors. Earlier this summer, he explained that the accomplishment of a particular bout and the audience’s response play pivotal roles in his assessments. This approach, however, has sparked varying opinions, with Seth “Freakin” Rollins dismissing Meltzer’s ratings as “very silly” due to their subjective nature.
Stevens’ sentiment finds resonance among several legendary wrestlers. Hall of Famers like Kurt Angle, Eddie Guerrero, “Macho Man” Randy Savage, Jake “The Snake” Roberts, and Paul “Triple H” Levesque have not received five-star or above ratings from Meltzer. The disparities between Meltzer’s ratings and the undeniable impact of these wrestling icons illustrate the divide between the objective assessment and the enduring legacies they’ve crafted.
Meltzer’s ratings continue to spark conversations, offering a glimpse into the diverse perspectives within the wrestling world. While he bestowed a 5.25 match rating upon New Japan Pro Wrestling’s G1 Climax 33 finals showdown between Tetsuya Naito and Kazuchika Okada, the larger discussion on the validity and significance of these ratings persists. As the wrestling landscape evolves, so does the debate surrounding Meltzer’s match ratings, capturing the ever-shifting essence of this vibrant industry.
