#98 How has China's pro-wrestling scene changed (with Following the yuan)
Middle Earth - China’s cultural industry podcast
Deep Dive
Why did Adrian Gomez start Middle Kingdom Wrestling in China?
Adrian Gomez, an American with a military background, moved to China in 2010 and discovered a small but passionate wrestling community. Inspired by his own wrestling fandom and the lack of a local wrestling league, he founded Middle Kingdom Wrestling (MKV) in 2015 with the help of Chinese wrestlers like The Slam.
What challenges does the wrestling industry face in China?
One major challenge is the misconception that wrestling is fake or just a performance, which can lead to it being disregarded compared to real combat sports like UFC. Additionally, wrestling needs more financial resources to present itself professionally and gain mainstream acceptance in China.
How has the reception of wrestling changed in China since 2010?
In 2010, people in China were largely unfamiliar with wrestling. Today, there is progress, with more people recognizing wrestling maneuvers and associating them with WWE. However, wrestling is still not mainstream in China.
What makes Middle Kingdom Wrestling unique compared to WWE and UFC?
MKV integrates Chinese cultural elements into its shows, such as Shaolin Temple-style wrestlers or Kung Fu backgrounds. This makes it a more culturally relevant and domestic alternative for Chinese combat sports fans compared to WWE or UFC.
Who is the main target audience for Middle Kingdom Wrestling?
The primary audience for MKW is 18 to 34-year-old males, accounting for about 91% of their viewers. However, they are working to attract other demographics, including women, children, and families, to make wrestling more mainstream.
What are some of the popular Chinese wrestlers in Middle Kingdom Wrestling?
Some of MKW's popular wrestlers include Chen Wenbin, Wang Tao, and Jun Jie. These wrestlers have built their audience through grassroots campaigns and MKW's promotional efforts.
What is the upcoming event for Middle Kingdom Wrestling?
MKV's next event, Bash at the Bay 3, will take place on January 27th in Shenzhen. It will feature international wrestlers from Singapore, Japan, and America, and aims to be the premier pro wrestling experience in China.
What does Adrian Gomez think it will take for wrestling to become mainstream in China?
Gomez believes that wrestling needs to focus on promoting its positive aspects, such as fitness and sportsmanship, to gain broader acceptance. Additionally, financial resources are needed to present wrestling professionally and gain support from parents, children, and the government.
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