WWE Rings Got Softer When Vince McMahon Started Taking Bumps

Vince McMahon wrestled few high-profile matches in WWE, but he didn’t have a lengthy career in the squared circle. That being said, Mr. McMahon understood exactly how much it hurt to take a bump in his ring, and that may be the reason why his company changed a few things around.

Pro wrestling rings are typically made of a metal frame with wooden boards on top, covered by a canvas. Underneath the canvas, there are springs or other mechanisms that provide some bounce to the surface. The ropes around the ring are usually steel cables covered by tape or rubber. That being said, there is little padding or anything soft about those rings.

While speaking on his Six Feet Under podcast, The Undertaker explained how there isn’t much give in the ring, but they did get softer when Vince McMahon started taking bumps.

“The ring got a lot softer after Vince started taking bumps years ago. Those first generation rings with WWE were nothing more than glorified boxing rings. They freaking hurt, especially in the winter when your body is already stiff and it’s cold outside, and you’re doing double shot days. The second show on a double shot day, your body doesn’t loosen up the second time the way it does the first time. Those were pretty snug, hitting some of those in cold arenas.” 

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WWE has seen changes in the wrestling rings and safety protocols over the years in an ongoing effort to enhance safety within the sport, recognizing the inherent risks involved in wrestling. The Undertaker, a seasoned wrestler, has endured numerous bumps during his career, with fellow wrestlers often likening each bump to the impact of a car crash.

The Undertaker is not taking bumps in the ring anymore. At this point, he is a retired WWE Hall of Famer, and it’s anyone’s guess what he will do next. He has earned the luxury of making his own schedule now, but that won’t involve taking bumps in the ring.

What’s your take on WWE softening their rings? Let us know what you think in the comments section!