5 Shocking WWE backstage traditions you didn't know about

The WWE backstage area has plenty of unwritten rules.
The WWE backstage area has plenty of unwritten rules.

For many young wrestling fans growing up, their life dream will be making it one day to WWE.

The biggest wrestling promotion in the world, the Sports Entertainment juggernaut has played host to some of the biggest stars ever, such as Hulk Hogan, John Cena, The Rock, and The Undertaker.

So for those who do make it to WWE, being a part of the company must be like a dream come true.

However, getting there is just half the battle, as Superstars are expected to follow a lot of rules behind the scenes.

Some of these rules are instructed by the company, though there are plenty more that have been formed from decades of Superstar's establishing what it takes to be part of the roster.

Here are five shocking backstage traditions in WWE, that every Superstar is expected to follow.


#5. Keep your title hidden

Lesnar has been one of WWE's most dominant champions in recent history.
Lesnar has been one of WWE's most dominant champions in recent history.

There can be fewer feelings better as a wrestler, than becoming a champion in WWE.

Not only is it a symbol of the company's trust in you, but it also means your name will live on in the history books long after you've hung up the boots.

But backstage, Superstars are advised to keep their title wearing to a minimum.

This is a lesson in humility, as nobody wants someone to be bragging about their huge win, especially to stars lower down on the card.

The Big Show learned this lesson the hard way when he appeared at an airport in the 1990s as the WCW World Heavyweight Champion.

Taken aside by Hulk Hogan, Show was advised to keep the title hidden, as much like backstage, wearing the title in a public place seems like showing off.

#4. Always call your matches in English

Even non-native English speakers like Asuka are expected to call in English.
Even non-native English speakers like Asuka are expected to call in English.

In 2019, the WWE is a mix of various nationalities from across the globe.

Though the majority of stars come from the U.S. other nations represented include Japan, Australia, Bulgaria, the UK, Canada, the Netherlands, Mexico, and Germany.

Despite the company being a multi-cultural land, Superstars are reminded to always conduct matches in English, to avoid confusion.

This rule is not just a WWE tradition though, as wrestlers in Japan are expected to conduct matches in English, and are also communicated to via the referee in English.

This means that stars from all over the world are able to communicate with each other instantly, rather than a wrestler needing to rapidly learn a foreign tongue before a match.

And in a sport where even the slightest mistake can lead to life-changing injuries, communication is crucial.

#3. Don't sleep if you're a passenger

Superstars are expected to stay awake on the road, even if they're not the one driving.
Superstars are expected to stay awake on the road, even if they're not the one driving.

The life of a WWE Superstar can be a tough deal.

Not only do you have to deal with bumps and injuries in the ring, but when you're not in the ring or training, you're probably on the road, traveling for hundreds of miles in the dead of night.

Therefore, there is an unwritten rule that Superstars who aren't driving, need to stay awake and keep their colleague company.

This is definitely a good backstage tradition, as having two or more people awake in the car will definitely keep the driver more alert during the long haul.

In addition, this rule must prove to be a fantastic bonding exercise for Superstars, who get to know their fellow wrestlers and make lifelong friendships whilst traveling on the road together.

#2. Shake everyone's hand

A handshake can go a long way in showing your respect in WWE.
A handshake can go a long way in showing your respect in WWE.

The handshake has been around for a long time and dates back to the 5th Century BC when Greeks used it as a sign of respect, and to show they weren't carrying any hidden weapons.

In WWE, the handshake is still a sign of respect and is expected from as many Superstars as possible.

If you're a new rookie on your first day in the company, then you're expected to shake as many hands as possible to show your friendly attitude and humility.

Not shaking people's hands can give you a very bad reputation, though for some Superstars (we're looking at you Lesnar), this probably doesn't bother them that much.

But if you're not the Beast Incarnate who's making over half a million per match, we recommend a quick handshake and a friendly hello.

#1. If you're not a veteran, fly responsibly

The WWE's official corporate jet was grounded due to heavy snow a few years ago.
The WWE's
official corporate jet was grounded due to heavy snow a few years ago.

The keeping awake for your driver rule is great and all, but sometimes, an overnight car-ride just won't do it.

Sometimes, the company needs Superstars to cross the entire U.S. overnight, or even travel overseas for tours.

When this happens, Superstars are expected to fly, but it's considered poor form if you find yourself in business class.

Much like the title rule, flying in a class above your fellow Superstars displays cockiness, and can give a Superstar a bad rep.

There are some exemptions from this rule, as veterans such as The Undertaker are allowed to fly however they feel, a just reward for someone who has given so much to the company.

Executives such as Vince McMahon and Triple H are also allowed to fly first class.

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