WWE is a dazzling world packed with spectacular moments and grand entertainment. However, behind the scenes, the company follows a strict code of unspoken rules, traditions, and backstage etiquette that fans rarely witness.
These customs are quietly passed down from one generation of wrestlers to another, influencing WWE’s culture in ways that even longtime viewers might find surprising.
Champions Don’t Carry Their Titles Backstage
WWE champions hand their title belts to the production crew once backstage. Carrying the championship belt around when it’s not necessary is seen as arrogant. This practice promotes humility, emphasizing that a championship belongs to the company rather than individual pride, honoring traditional locker room values.
Wrestlers Must Greet Everyone
Wrestlers are expected to acknowledge everyone behind the scenes, from referees to fellow wrestlers and producers. This gesture reflects mutual respect, and failing to do so can result in subtle resentment. Newcomers are often reminded of this through quiet pushback if they skip handshakes.
No Eating in Ring Gear
Wrestlers should avoid eating while wearing their full ring outfits, especially during broadcast events. This helps maintain the presentation of their character and professionalism, subtly preserving the illusion of the wrestling world, known as Kayfabe.
Don’t Sit in the Veterans’ Section
Locker room seating is informally assigned based on seniority. New wrestlers refrain from sitting in areas traditionally reserved for veterans, which fosters respect for those who have earned their place over time. These unspoken rules help keep harmony in the locker room.
Stay Until the Main Event Ends
All WWE superstars are expected to stay for the entire show, including the main event, regardless of whether they have a match that night. Leaving early is seen as disrespectful to headlining talent and undermines the family-like atmosphere WWE encourages, where support and learning are part of the culture.
Do Not Attend Other Wrestling Shows
WWE discourages talent from appearing at rival wrestling promotions unless approved. This rule enforces loyalty, demonstrated by the 2008 incident when Robbie McAllister was pulled from WWE TV for appearing on TNA tapings. Maintaining commitment even outside work hours remains important.
Scripts Are Delivered Verbally to Veterans
Experienced wrestlers often receive their promos verbally rather than in written form, reflecting trust in their ability to improvise and hit key story points. This also helps keep storylines more secure and demonstrates the varying levels of creative freedom according to experience.
You Must Check Out Before Leaving
Before leaving the arena, wrestlers are required to check out with a producer or road agent to confirm all details and last-minute changes are communicated. Leaving without notice can hurt their reputation, regardless of their status within WWE.
Rookies Are Expected to Carry Bags
Although hazing is banned, rookies often assist with carrying gear and cases to show humility and dedication. This informal tradition helps younger talent earn respect and signals their willingness to work hard behind the scenes.
Fan Take: Understanding these behind-the-scenes protocols sheds light on the respect, discipline, and tradition that shape WWE’s locker room culture, deepening appreciation for the wrestlers’ professionalism. For fans, it underscores that wrestling is not just entertainment but a tightly knit community where every role matters in sustaining the sport’s legacy.
