Art and entertainment : Raven

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Many fans know Raven for his career at ECW, WCW, and the WWF/WWE but i have heard few fans talk about his time in TNA from 2003 to around 2010. I've enjoyed almost all of his runs but if i had to pick at least one company where he excelled most at, it would have to be TNA for several reasons.

* His character developed - From his promos and backstage segments, his character became more ruthless than ever before. Before, he was depressed and focused more on his traumatic past. In TNA,there was a mix of emotions and qualities - anger, ambition, arrogance, ruthlessness, aggression, sorrow, and so on. He set his sights on becoming the NWA world heavyweight champion and ensured that no one would stand in his way. His gimmick also looked darker and he didn't always wear the same outfit as he did in ECW.

* He invented his own hardcore match types - Raven introduced the Hangman's horror match where you have to hang your opponent from the ropes with a chain around his or her neck until he or she passes out. The other is the Clockwork Orange House of Fun match where weapons hang from a chain link wall for wrestlers to use until one gets pinned in a falls count anywhere rule. They were brutal during his time at TNA and continued to be used in other promotions.

* Hardcore wrestling evolved - During his time at ECW, fans were allowed to participate by tossing in weapons which was innovative especially during Raven's feud with Tommy Dreamer and the Sandman. In TNA however, Raven participated in the most brutal, darkest, and bloodiest hardcore matches of different types. He also used his signature moves far more creatively than ever before such as the drop toehold with a chair.

* The NWA World Heavyweight Championship - While it's true that there is no comparing the ECW Championship to the NWA Championship because of different eras, i thought the "Destiny" storyline was far more interesting than it was in ECW. He had so many obstacles to overcome such as Jeff Jarrett, AJ Styles, Larry Zbyszko, Monty Brown, Vince Russo, the list goes on. The way TNA created the storyline made the title meaningful and worth more. Raven himself has also said that the NWA World Heavyweight title was personally worth more and more important in an interview by SLAM! Wrestling (1).

* TNA gave him the freedom to use ring psychology - Raven is a hardcore legend because he is a master of ring psychology. Sadly, he didn't get the chance to use it to it's fullest potential as he did in TNA. This is what he said in an interview with the Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling podcast:

Raven: "What ECW did was show clips so you didn't see the whole thing. You didn't get all the over the top or the too much or lack of psychology because you didn't see it. Even a lot of the mat wrestling in ECW had really piss-poor psychology but Paul E. hid it. In the WWE you see everything because Vince doesn't show clips, he shows full matches. With that being said a lot of guys were over doing it but they never pushed it either. How can anything get over if it's not pushed. No matter how well it's performed if it's not pushed it is not getting over." (2)

Neither WCW or WWF/WWE pushed Raven to a higher card no matter how well he performed. TNA was the only company aside from ECW in my eyes that pushed Raven to a higher card in main events as he used ring psychology.

* Raven engaged in many quality feuds at TNA - While no one can deny that the storyline feuds with Tommy Dreamer and the Sandman were very memorable, he had the chance to feud with both old school wrestlers and the newer generation of wrestlers. For the first time in history, Sabu and Raven wrestled each other at TNA whereas before the idea never came up. He also feuded with Jeff Jarrett, AJ Styles, DDP, Abyss, James Mitchell, the list goes on while keeping some ECW overtones.

* Raven expressed his sense of accomplishment in the company - In an interview with SLAM! Wrestling, Raven had this to say after he won the NWA title:

Raven: "I have been in this business so long I am jaded and cynical, and this is validation that the company has that kind of belief and faith in me...I think if I am not wearing the belt it needs to be on Jeff or AJ Styles. I don't think anyone has stepped up to the plate to be the kind of performer that will be in the main event picture. I think someday Monty Brown will. Just because you feel like you deserve something doesn't mean you will get it. I and a lot of people felt I was misused in WWF but that doesn’t negate the fact that I never proved that I was as good as I thought I was. This is a validation..."Honestly, I am probably happiest in TNA because I am happiest with me as a person. I have faced most of my demons, financially I am making more money then I ever was, I am happier as a person and my life is more together."

* Tag team stables - Raven formed his own tag team stables, the most notable one was "the Gathering" consisting of Julio Dinero and CM Punk.

Overall, Raven is a very underrated pro-wrestler but the only company that saw potential in him and pushed him as one of the top heels of their company was TNA.

1. http://www.theraveneffect.com/site/info/interviews/index.php?subaction=showfull&id=1247009877&archive=&start_from=&ucat=10&

2. http://www.wrestlinginc.com/wi/news/2016/0617/612751/raven-talks-about-psychology-in-hardcore-wrestling/

Upon Raven and the Sandman's culmination of their feud, Raven crucified the Sandman. What should have been the most unique and historic moments in ECW history also ended up in the most controversial as there was alot of backlash. Many of ECW talents, personnel, and some fans were offended as they were Catholics. Raven was forced to break character and publicly apologize.

I thought Raven should have never apologized for his creative usage of the cross. The harsh criticism posed against Raven's use of the cross is absolutely ridiculous. No one seemed to bat an eye when Raven and Tommy Dreamer crucified each other during their feud. No one was bothered when Joey Styles cried "oh my God!" when there was extreme moment. ECW was known for pushing the boundaries of their edgy storylines so i can't comprehend why this angle was such a big issue.

As a Christian, i did not find this offensive at all because the cross never belonged to Christianity in the first place. Crosses have been used by various religions for many centuries long before the Romans adopted them for the purpose of crucifixion. As for the symbolism, anyone with an understanding of the Raven character and the feud would understand the meaning behind it. Raven as he called himself in shoot interviews "a martyr for society's dysfunction.." The character saw himself as a savior and a voice for the voiceless. He saw it in his mind to vindicate those who have been outcast by society.

I thought this was one of the greatest moments in ECW history especially in their feud because Raven finally made the Sandman feel his pain.

Today's generation of wrestling fans have forgotten what hardcore wrestling was all about and it's created a division in the wrestling fanbase. There are fans who love hardcore wrestling because of the art form and those who hate it because of it's lack of skill. Both sides have forgotten what made hardcore wrestling so great which is why most cannot tell the difference between talented hardcore wrestling and what i like to call "garbage wrestling." Here's a list of essential aspects that hardcore wrestlers and fans ought to grasp in order to be phenomenal:

* Story-telling - What made pro-wrestlers like Mick Foley so great? While they used weapons at their disposal, they told a dramatic story with their bodies. They have a build up from the beginning to middle until the end. Story-telling especially in hardcore matches are what cause audiences to react and jump out of their seats.

A great example of a brutal hardcore match incorporating story-telling aside is Pentagon Jr. vs Vampiro. As you watch, take note of how it builds up to the final act:

* Believable characters - Raven is a master at ring psychology and in this case, psychological heel tactics. He's arrogant, disrespectful, ambitious, ruthless, brutal both verbally and non-verbally. You can clearly see that in the way that he mocks his opponents, plays mind games, taunts them, does his signature pose, the list goes on. To stand out as a hardcore wrestler, you must have character be it heel or face. You can have the most brutal match of the century but if you have no character, your reduced to an extreme stuntman.

Watch his match against Sabu and pay attention to how he shows his character. Notice how Raven mockingly uses the Sheikh's camel clutch against Sabu.

* Ring Psychology - Sabu is another notable wrestler who skillfully uses ring psychology in his matches. Hardcore wrestlers apply the same principles of pure wrestling to hardcore matches. They still treat pro-wrestling as a sport as opposed to a blood bath by resorting to strategy and applying wrestling techniques in their matches. They are aware of their surroundings, the rules, etc. and use that to sell their moves to the crowd.

One of my favorite hardcore matches serving as an example of ring psychology is between Sabu and Abyss at TNA's Turning Point barbed wire match in 2005. Notice how both pro-wrestlers struggle over control and try to throw each other into the barbed wire while avoiding it at the same time. Take note of how they took the time to sell their moves as the match progresses.

* Creativity - Hardcore wrestling contrary to popular belief have creativity in their matches. A fantastic example of this is Tommy Dreamer. Whenever he was tossed a weapon by ECW fans regardless of what it was, he would instantly use it creatively and often painfully on his opponents. It's easy to see why he earned the title of "the innovator of violence." It doesn't matter what weapon you have, it's how you use them that matters.

Any hardcore match that completely lacks all three of these elements and more is what i define as garbage wrestling. There's nothing wrong with garbage wrestling. It's only when hardcore wrestlers and fans forget about the foundations of hardcore wrestling that problems arise. What's wrong with today's hardcore wrestlers? They think that by doing high spots, they are great at hardcore wrestling which isn't true. It doesn't matter how brutal your moves are or how bloody your matches are. If you rush your matches by over-saturating them with gore and lack story-telling, ring psychology, a believable character, and creativity then you won't be a memorable hardcore wrestler.

I have never been into purely athletic wrestlers because they are generic and out of place in an environment where it is about gimmicks. The pro-wrestling world surrounds entertainment not sport. While sports are certainly the means to gain entertainment, it's not legitimate. There's no appeal to pro-wrestlers who treat it as an athletic sport and dress like any other athlete. There are some exceptions like CM Punk but only because they have character which is what i look for. I love wrestling characters such as Stone Cold, the Rock, the Undertaker, Kane, Mick Foley, Raven, Sabu, Jeff Hardy, the list goes on. They have their own style of dress, mannerisms, beliefs, attitudes, goals, and personalities. They are more of entertainers who are very successful in comparison to those who are simply there for athleticism. Wrestling characters are memorable because they are known by fans for their entertainment value and style of wrestling. Athletes on the other hand would do well in the Olympics rather than a pro-wrestling ring.

Raven begins a promo by presumably exposing DDP for a lack of honesty on how he began his career. Suddenly, a fan climbs over the railings and grabs Raven by the hair then pulls him through the ropes. Raven gets up as security guards rush in to subdue the fan and Raven goes back to giving his promo. The mic seems to malfunction due to the attack as he continued to talk until he is handed a new one. A link can be provided on the page below.

While it was unfortunate that a "fan" attacked a pro-wrestler, i thought it looked good on camera and probably drew attention from casual spectators changing channels on a T.V. Raven was a true genius because of this incident. If you noticed, he never broke character. Most pro-wrestlers would either attack the fan or fear for their safety. Raven remained calm and reacted as his character would. He didn't even need to attack the fan in self defense much less prove he's "hardcore." Raven simply looked down with pity on him basically saying with his body language "Your not worth my time...your nothing compared to my brilliance..." then arrogantly brushed the dust off of his jacket and got back in the ring. This is how every pro-wrestler ought to react but sadly it doesn't have the same effect because Kayfabe is no longer a secret. Raven is one of the few pro-wrestlers who rather than do what was best for himself, did what was best for the pro-wrestling business.

While this fan may never enter another wrestling show again (a total good thing), this incident will always be a memorable example of Kayfabe in the face of danger. Had the microphone functioned properly, it would have been a perfect promo.

What makes a pro-wrestler a legend? Many fans use the term "legends" all too often to describe their favorite pro-wrestlers but there's not many who meet beyond the standards of a wrestling legend. Modern pro-wrestlers like Roman Reigns unfortunately don't equate to the legends of the past.

Pro-wrestling legends are unlike any another pro-wrestler in the known world of pro-wrestling. They are absolutely amazing. Pro-wrestling legends have these must-have traits:

* Passion and character - Pro-wrestling legends have unbelievable passion for the pro-wrestling business and it shows. They have highly built athletic bodies, wrestling styles, charisma, drive, the list goes on. Most of all, they have believable characters. Creating an unforgettable character begins by unleashing the deepest sides of yourself in the ring. Legends also make the promotion they work for their home. They give their best in everything that they do both in the ring and locker room.

* Solid promos - Outstanding promos consist of a beginning (a strong hook), a middle (build up to an event), and end (concluding remarks). Highly successful pro-wrestlers cut memorable promos. They don't just scream "i'm gonna win!" They all have their own emotional appeal, gimmicks, characters, catch phrases, and so forth. Take Raven for example, he almost always shares a deep philosophical insight on life during his promos. He starts by stating an interesting thought then sometimes goes into comparing his opponent to himself before listing the qualities that make him superior. Promos are delivered effectively with intensity and assertiveness. They're never rushed, but perfectly put together.

* Creative in-ring performance - Just because pro-wrestling is scripted, doesn't mean there's no creativity or athleticism involved. Pro-wrestling legends blend the two together, creating unforgettable matches. Kurt Angle is very athletic in the ring executing intense signature amateur wrestling moves at a fast pace. Why do you think pro-wrestlers like Sting and the Undertaker are entertaining? Because they have various types of moves: Power moves, high flying moves, submission holds, etc. However they don't just wrestle, but entertain the audience by doing something unique to their character and building anticipation in the crowd. For instance, John Cena likes to do his "you can't see me!" hand gesture before executing a finisher. Most of all, pro-wrestling legends sell (make pro-wrestling look realistic) like no tomorrow. One example is when the Undertaker limped on one leg after Kurt Angle put it in an ankle lock.

* Storytelling - You can have outstanding signature moves, but you will bore people if you do not tell stories. Storytelling is when a pro-wrestler builds drama during a match. How do you tell a story? Using your body. The Undertaker, arguably one of the greatest storytellers in pro-wrestling, is the finest example of how story-telling is done. He sometimes begins by having a staredown with someone he's been feuding with like his brother Kane. He then begins by fiercely attacking a pro-wrestler he's been feuding with more than the average opponent. When he gets locked into a chokehold, he sells and leaves you asking "how is he going to get out of that hold?" He also builds anticipation and plot twists by sitting up after a devastating finisher. Great stories happen when there is something at stake such as the Undertaker's streak at Wrestlemania. Just watch the Undertaker vs. Shawn Michaels at Wrestlemania 25. What made the match so great? Storytelling. It was the way Shawn Michaels put everything in his being to defeat the Undertaker and how the Undertaker gave everything to defend his streak.

* Strong fanbases - Stone Cold, Jeff Hardy, Hulk Hogan, and Sting are all examples of pro-wrestlers who built a strong interaction with their fans. Building a strong relationship with fans starts by creating slogans, hand gestures, catch phrases, or naming fans. For example, Jeff Hardy often refers to his fans as "creatures" and vouches for them in the face of adversity. Gimmicks can also inspire people to dress up as their favorite pro-wrestler, giving him or her further exposure. Legends (heel or face) almost always make their fans apart of the action.

* Revolutionary accomplishments - Every pro-wrestler has contributed in some way or form to the success of a particular set of moves or company. Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold, the Undertaker, and others have popularized the WWF/WWE with their entertainment reaching beyond the ring. They've dominated the entire promotion and that's what led them to revolutionize pro-wrestling. Only legends can leave long lasting impact on the pro-wrestling business.

If pro-wrestlers today would be inspired by all-time wrestling legends and learn what made them so successful, pro-wrestling talents would be more than athletes. Pro-wrestling legends go far beyond the norm and that's why they'll forever be engraved in the hall of fame.

Hardcore wrestling is a type of wrestling in which pro-wrestlers wrestle using weapons such as tables, chairs, staple guns, and thumbtacks. Hardcore wrestling was made popular around the 90's. It's also known as "Garbage wrestling" due to it's lack of technical skill that pure pro-wrestling has.

I dislike using the term "Garbage wrestling" because hardcore wrestling deserves more respect. In my opinion, hardcore wrestling takes more skill than pure pro-wrestling (one on one wrestling matches with standard rules). Some argue that it takes no talent for wrestlers to use various weapons on their opponents let alone get injured. This is an over-generalization. Hardcore legends such as Mick Foley, Tommy Dreamer, Sabu, Raven, etc. have made it to big promotions. While it might not take as much technical skill to bash each other with lamps as a pure wrestling match, there is skill in taking serious blows and falls.

Pro-wrestlers in other extreme promotions use fluorescent lamps, barbed wire, glass, wild animals like snakes and scorpions, fire, thumbtacks, C4, knives, tables, along with other dangerous weapons. When pro-wrestlers face opponents in a hardcore match, they have to be careful not to accidentally cut a major artery or stab a vital organ. They also must adapt to different situations such as a burning ring or falling off of a steel cage. Some of the same principles of pure pro-wrestling still apply to hardcore matches.

WWF/WWE stopped hosting hardcore matches as too many wrestlers were getting injured. Other promotions do not host them as often as anymore. Hardcore wrestling isn't as popular as it once was however it's still practiced by other indie pro-wrestlers. I realize it's not for everyone but hardcore wrestling deserves respect for it's gruesome and skillful nature nevertheless.

This is the only picture of Sting with Raven on TNA in 2006. Unfortunately, i've been trying to find the video for it but to no success. It began when Scott Steiner and Jeff Jarrett were arguing with each other over who they would face then attacked Don West. Sting heroically saved Don and then Raven. This was a rare interaction between the two.

It would have been a perfect chance to book Raven and Sting together as this was the time when Sting was a big face and Raven a great heel (though not as appreciated as others). A match between Raven and Sting would make perfect sense as Raven was on his path to becoming NWA champion and Sting was feuding with Jeff Jarrett for the NWA title.

If it were up to me, i'd book TNA Victory Road 2006 to have a four-way match consisting of Sting, Raven, Jeff Jarrett, and Samoa Joe to be the number one contender for the NWA World Heavyweight title. During the events leading to the match, i'd have Jeff Jarrett instigate Raven into challenging him into a four way match to see if he had what it took to be NWA World Heavyweight champion. I'd also have Sting boldly declare that Jeff Jarrett did not deserve to be NWA champ and because of his dishonorable ways, Sting would fairly strip the title away from him. Almost at the end of the match, i'd have Jarrett's army interfere in an attempt to help Jeff Jarrett win. I would also book Raven to win after losing chance after chance because of Larry Zbyszko and others refusal to give him a title shot. At the same time, Sting would continue his intense feud with Jeff Jarrett and intention of putting Jarrett in his place by having a series of more heated matches.

It irks me that TNA didn't book a potentially intense match which could have branched into more interesting storylines.

With WWE being a major long-standing promotion, it would seem to put smaller promotions like TNA out of business. I beg to differ. TNA though being a small company with a small audience is still a solid promotion. TNA is one of the most entertaining and prestigious promotions in american pro-wrestling. Why should you watch TNA? I'll give you several reasons.

The roster - TNA has developed their own unique and new generation of pro-wrestlers. Samoa Joe, AJ Styles, Sting, Raven, Sabu, Rhino, Abyss, and Monty Brown just to name a few. WWF/WWE has the greatest living legends of all time no doubt however there's no guarantee they'll make it to the next generation.

TNA officials - TNA has some notable officials within their company's management team.

Mike Tenay - He started one of the country's first wrestling newsletters, Matt News. He's interviewed pro-wrestlers, wrote for wrestling magazines, and other programs. He's won an award for being the best television announcer and has the nickname "professor Vegas" for his vast knowledge of the pro-wrestling business.

Don West - He has majored in Sports Broadcasting when he attended Purdue University. He is known for his loud and energetic commentaries during matches.

With Mike Tenay's expert analysis combined with Don West's energy, both make any TNA match exciting to watch.

TNA's unique look - TNA's 6-sided ring is what made TNA stand out from other wrestling promotion that use a 4-sided ring. There are many different angles to view the action from and many turnbuckles for wrestlers to use. TNA's appearance is partially why it's been successful.

Let's not forget TNA's tunnel entrance. It serves a multi-purpose, as a way to enter the IMPACT zone but also a battleground.

TNA's women division - TNA is one of the few promotions with a highly developed women's division. WWE calls their women "divas" and in later years reserved them for eye candy with restricted match time. TNA took their women wrestlers seriously since day one and have put them at equal standing with the men. The women participate in title, main event, and hardcore matches as much as the men do.

TNA'S creative storylines - TNA has almost always delivered interesting storylines, entertaining promos, intense feuds, and booked highly anticipated matches. TNA has never ceased to put up a grand performance.

Fan interaction - TNA is one of the few promotions with strong wrestler-crowd interactions. TNA strives to create an environment where fans are apart of the action. Almost all of the time, you see wrestlers fighting through the crowd. TNA builds a solid relationship with fans which is essential to the company's success.

Non-stop action - TNA wastes no time in petty drama, beer drinking contests, and other things that WWE does on the side. This is why the promotion is called Total Non-stop Action! Almost every minute of the show is devoted to wrestling.

Prestigious title belts - TNA has held a partnership with NWA (National Wrestling Alliance) in the creation of championship titles. They are memorable due to it's design but also to the matches.

Main events - TNA has a variety of creativity in matches. Promotions like WWE usually have wrestlers deliver chair shots and crash through tables but they keep it professional for the most part. TNA puts more weapons to use in addition to other outrageous stunts in their main events.

Although TNA is not as successful as it was originally, it has not failed as a brand. For these reasons and more, you should tune in every Thursday for TNA impact wrestling.

Some critics claim that Raven might not be very talented and at first glance, they might be right. However, an analysis of his moves reveals that he is underrated and deserving of a high position among the greats.

Raven during his time at promotions such as ECW and TNA was violently ruthless. He knows what needs to be done no matter the sacrifice and pain. He's willing to go to great lengths to make sure his opponents are defeated. He is disposed to various weapons at his arsenal. Despite his power based moves, he is a clever strategist. He focuses on outsmarting his opponents than simply overpowering them as others prefer. He has quick reflexes and unpredictability. For example, watch the match between Raven and Rhino at TNA unbreakable. While watching, notice how Raven avoids facing Rhino head on. He realizes with a man Rhino's size and ability, he would get demolished with a power bomb. What does Raven do instead? Wear him down with vicious tools, the ankle lock, not allowing Rhino any room to breathe. He avoids Rhino's dangerous attacks which performing some of his own. He uses the environment to his advantage and seizes the opportunity to inflict pain on his opponents.

Raven was a creative genius when it came to signature moves because he didn't stick to the traditional usage of them. Most notably, he popularized his own variant of the DDT. The standard DDT is performed when a wrestler puts an opponent's head in a facelock then falls backwards or forwards to drive his or her head to the mat. Raven hit his opponent in the gut with a kick but would drop his weight, swinging his legs forward, and forcefully bending an opponent's head down. This can result in severe brain damage. This signature move was as he dubbed: "The Raven Effect." He gives a few jabs before executing his discus clothesline and sets his opponent against a guardrail before delivering the Russian legsweep. He also performs the drop toe-hold on a chair for more damage. This is a mark of a talented performer.

Raven is a legend for more than just his championship titles, but his entertaining abilities and creativity. He deserves to be in the hall of fame for accomplishing what few wrestlers could. Whether you love or hate him, you cannot deny his success as a pro-wrestler.

I am a huge fan of WWE and it's energetic, action-packed, and thrilling matches that it advertises through it's promos. While the promos are intense and often entertaining, they have one problem - they're repetitive. WWE has simply rehashed previous incidents and merged them into one clip. WWE has failed to create innovative and promos with their own uniqueness. This has always been a problem despite WWE's greatest success.

Other promotions have managed to create better promos with their own independence. Take a look at TNA's promo on a match between Raven and Jeff Jarrett at Clockwork Orange House of Fun:

Notice that it had it's own independent setting as Raven was on the mic. Shortly after, he is attacked by Jeff Jarrett. It's all in one promo. No clips are being reused. No attempts to enhance visuals or audio like WWE does in their promos. It's simple and straight-forward.

Don't get me wrong, i'm not saying that WWE sucks at making promos. My only wish is that they would find ways to build up an intense anticipation for their matches. Writing exciting and highly anticipating promos take great craftsmanship. WWE has nearly mastered this by creating interesting feuds and merging history. Now all that is left is for them to bring it all together and creating something fresh for a match.

I grew up with a difficult childhood. I suffered at the hands of my abusive father until my parents divorced. I curiously watched TNA Impact and stumbled across Raven who became one of my favorite wrestlers. I admired his style of fashion, his poetic promos, his ambition, and his ruthlessness. I could relate to his dark character expressed through his bizarre and gloomy make-up. I was shocked by the brutality of his matches as he wrestled with many weapons such as chairs, trash cans, shopping carts, and barbed wire. Even more surprising was when he sacrificed his own body if it meant inflicting pain on his opponents. He viciously wounded them, often causing serious injuries. From the time i watched Raven walk to the ring to the time he won a match, i looked up to him. According to his heel character, he also suffered from an abusive father. Since my father failed me as a parent, Raven became my role model. I wanted to be as fearless, as powerful, and as reckless as Raven was.

After school, i rushed to watch pro-wrestling rather than deal with the stress of academics. Pro-wrestling was my way of rebelling against society and all of the expectations people put on me. When i saw all of the pro-wrestlers, the chaotic violence, and hear the crowd roar – i knew what true freedom was. Freedom from reality and morals. When i was bullied, i was hurt and afraid but when i watched Raven wrestle, i learned how to fight. When i saw him feud with other wrestlers, i learned that only you can stand up for yourself. When i watched him endure agonizing pain, i learned that suffering was inevitable but what mattered most was the will to fight and vanquish your obstacles. In the face of adversity, i learned the importance in claiming what is yours in spite of suffering. Once i did that, the insults and the fear of pain disappeared. I stopped seeing myself as a victim of abuse and more as a fighter. When i saw him finally fulfill his destiny to become NWA World Heavyweight champion, i was inspired to fulfill my own destiny.

Since then, pro-wrestling has become my passion. I appreciated the art more than ever before. Pro-wrestling goes beyond the ring and gives wisdom that fans can apply to their lives. I still carry the lessons i've learned from watching my favorite wrestlers. Pro-wrestling will never die and as a loyal fan, i will continue to support and share my passion for this phenomenal sport.

Former pro-wrestler Raven was my childhood inspiration. His bizarre gimmicks, make-up, grunge clothing, and theme were all what made him stand out. As a kid, i loved watching him wrestle at TNA Impact. He was the role model i looked up to. Despite his legendary character, i feel he is completely underrated by most in the WWE/WWF world.

To start, he has a very thorough understanding of how the pro-wrestling business operates. He's been a writer and worked behind the scenes. He has valid credentials that set him apart from most other pro-wrestlers.

From a very early age, he was inspired to be a wrestler. He went through a identity crisis until he drew from traumatic childhood experiences. He took the emotional scars and created a dark and psychologically twisted persona rather than see a psychiatrist. Rather than create a completely fabricated personality, he made one forged from his psyche. One that he could easily blend naturally well into.

From the time Raven makes his entrance to the time the match ends, he proves himself to be TNA's most ruthless. He's vicious, sadistic, ambitious, cruel, violent, and merciless. He's the ideal image of what more heels or villains ought to aspire. He's arrogant and cares about no one but himself. He has no concept of sportsmanship, morality, honor, or respect. His goal is to severely torture his opponents by the most brutal methods (chairs, ladders, chains, staple guns, shopping carts, you name it.) His signature move: DDT Raven Effect as he explained was meant to drive the opponent's head into the ground. He knows how to pace matches, performing outrageous stunts and creative counters. His attacks aren't just physical, they're also psychological. He loves to make wrestlers think they have the upper hand, only to make a counter. He loves pain in the fullest and will often sacrifice his own body if it means winning the match. He has no remorse or compassion for what he does to his opponents and that's what makes him a monster. It's no surprise that he invented his own "Clockwork Orange: House of Fun" match type. When i realized this, i could clearly see why he was the ideal candidate to compete at TNA's Monster's ball against Abyss, Rhino, Black Reign, and Monty Brown.

As far as his record goes, he has held a fair win and lose streak. He's held several titles during his time at ECW, WWF, WCW, and TNA. He's faced opponents deemed formidable such as Rhino, Monty Brown, AJ Styles, etc. He with Stevie Richards defeated Cactus Jack, Tommy Dreamer, and the Pitbulls at Wrestlepaooza. His feud with the Sandman and Tommy Dreamer were considered some of the greatest in pro-wrestling history. He's attended special events and faced reputable wrestlers like Cactus Jack.

Whether it's at ECW, WCW, or TNA, Raven has been phenomenal on the mic. In almost each promo, he has something to reveal about his dark nature. His dark poetic words, allusions, aggressive displays, and ambitious drive to succeed in the ring are more than memorable. They're thought provoking philosophical ideas on suffering and human experience. He brought a whole new meaning and usage of Edgar Allen Poe's phrase "Quote the Raven Nevermore."

Despite his legacy, i think he was robbed by the WWF/WWE. He deserved so much more than the positions WWF/WWE put him in. I didn't think he was ready to compete against more popular wrestlers like Stone Cold, Undertaker, or the Rock just yet. He just started off fresh into the WWF and didn't have the proper chances to build a solid reputation. His character was degraded, becoming "filler" material rather than being allowed to perform more freely. He was reduced to a mere hardcore champ. rather than given other grand opportunities. It seems as if the audience wanted the villain to get beat up by their favorite and heroic wrestlers. They were ignorant of all his achievements and reputation in his early career. His success partially depended on the time he entered the WWF. Perhaps if he entered the business at a later time, he might've had made it big against the mainstream legends. He would've taken the spot next to the greats of the WWF/WWE.

In summary, Raven is one of the greatest wrestling legends in history. Creative story archs, intense feuds, and the most brutal wrestling stunts make him into an entertainer dabbling with brutality. His ingenious talent should have been widely recognized in the WWE/WWF had he gained the spot for it. Raven though retiring to start his own wrestling school, still impacts wrestling to this day.

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