Darby Allin, the enigmatic professional wrestler signed to All Elite Wrestling (AEW), is known for his daring high-flying maneuvers and willingness to push physical boundaries. But beneath the spectacle, Allin insists, lies a deeply rooted technical wrestling foundation often overlooked by fans and industry observers. Allin recently discussed his approach to the sport, his frustrations with simplified perceptions, and a particularly grueling match from his independent circuit days during an interview with Chris Van Vliet.
The conversation arose when Allin addressed the frequent comparisons to former Extreme Championship Wrestling (ECW) and WWE performer Spike Dudley, a wrestler also known for taking significant risks and “nasty bumps.” While acknowledging the surface-level similarities, Allin firmly believes the comparisons miss the mark. He contends that his wrestling skillset extends far beyond simply enduring punishment, and that he possesses a level of technical proficiency Dudley didn’t demonstrate. “I don’t really see it, to be honest,” Allin stated. “As I’m like way more of a wrestler’s wrestler. I don’t perceive like Spike was ever a technical wrestler. I definitely feel like I’m way more of a wrestler’s wrestler than that. I shit you not, I feel like I could out wrestle a lot of people from a technical standpoint, but ain’t nobody seek to see Darby Allin do a lot of technical wrestling.”
Beyond the Bumps: A Technical Foundation
Allin’s assertion highlights a common tension within professional wrestling: the balance between spectacle and skill. He explained that while fans may gravitate towards his more dramatic and physically demanding spots, he actively trains and refines his technical abilities. “But when I do it’s like super fun because I feel like people always forget that I know how to do this. I got a ring at my house and I train all the time,” he said. This dedication to the fundamentals underscores a commitment to the craft that extends beyond simply entertaining a crowd. He’s fascinated by the technical styles of wrestling history, specifically mentioning his obsession with World of Sport, a British wrestling promotion known for its intricate in-ring work.
However, Allin recognizes his role within the broader landscape of AEW. He understands that his value to the promotion lies, in part, in his willingness to take risks and perform stunts that others might shy away from. He described it as understanding his place in the “big puzzle,” acknowledging that his contribution is to push the boundaries of what’s physically possible. This self-awareness doesn’t diminish his passion for technical wrestling, but rather frames it as a personal pursuit that enriches his overall performance.
Frustration with “Small-Minded” Thinking
Allin expressed frustration with what he perceives as “small-minded” thinking within the wrestling industry. He believes fans and commentators often oversimplify characters and storylines, relying on superficial connections rather than appreciating the nuances of individual personalities and skill sets. A prime example, he noted, is the tendency to link him with Sting solely because both wrestlers utilize face paint. “I feel like a lot of wrestling stuff is incredibly small-minded,” Allin said. “I feel like you feel about, oh, he’s with Sting because they have face paint. It’s like, Dude, it goes way beyond that. I feel like, yeah, a lot of people are very small-minded in wrestling.”
This sentiment speaks to a broader critique of the wrestling business, where character development can sometimes be sacrificed for quick, easily digestible narratives. Allin’s desire to be recognized for his technical abilities, alongside his more daring exploits, reflects a yearning for a more comprehensive understanding of his artistry.
A Near Miss and a Testament to Resilience
The conversation also touched on a particularly harrowing experience from Allin’s time on the independent circuit. He recalled a favorite match against GUNTHER (then known as WALTER), now a prominent star in WWE. He described the bout as a “real fight,” a testament to the intensity and physicality of their encounter. However, the match nearly didn’t happen. Allin revealed he suffered a brain bleed during a morning show appearance on the same day.
“I almost missed the match due to a brain bleed suffered during a morning show on the same day,” Allin recounted. He was hospitalized and placed under medical observation before ultimately being cleared to compete. Despite the health scare, he went on to have what he described as an “incredible” singles match. This anecdote serves as a powerful illustration of Allin’s resilience and unwavering dedication to his craft, even in the face of significant personal risk.
As Allin continues to evolve as a performer, his commitment to both the spectacle and the substance of professional wrestling remains evident. His willingness to challenge perceptions and push his physical limits, coupled with his dedication to honing his technical skills, positions him as a compelling and multifaceted figure in the world of AEW. Fans can hear the full interview with Chris Van Vliet, where Allin discusses these topics and more, on major podcast platforms and the Chris Van Vliet YouTube channel. The next scheduled event for Allin is Revolution on March 3rd, 2024, where he is slated to compete in a Texas Deathmatch against Jay Lethal.
What are your thoughts on Darby Allin’s wrestling style and his comments on technical wrestling? Share your opinions in the comments below and be sure to share this article with fellow wrestling fans.
Related reading
