Erick Rowan Feels Disheartened by Fans Who Don’t Understand the Work Wrestlers Put In

Erick Rowan isn’t just back in WWE—he’s also speaking his truth. The former Bludgeon Brother recently opened up in a new interview with Card Player about his life in wrestling, dealing with grief, and how online fan negativity hits him harder than most people realize.

While reflecting on the passing of Bray Wyatt and Luke Harper, Rowan talked about how being in the ring has helped him heal. But when the topic turned to fans and the reactions wrestlers receive online, he didn’t hold back his emotions.

Rowan said it’s tough to see how quickly fans can turn cruel without understanding the sacrifices involved.

“I think sometimes, fans get caught up with what they think is good and bad. And I think that’s funny because wrestling is such a subjective thing, so some people may think something’s bad and then another person watches that same match and they love it. When you put that much time and effort into creating something, it’s kind of hard for people to fathom at home how much time and training people put into this. I just don’t get the mean-spirited stuff I see online sometimes. I think that’s kind of what makes me just a little disheartened with society.”

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It’s a rare, honest insight from a performer who’s seen the highs and lows of the industry—and isn’t afraid to admit when things hurt.

Rowan’s comments serve as a reminder that behind the characters and theatrics, real people are pouring their hearts into a business they love—even when they’re dealing with personal loss.