Image: AEW’s Konosuke Takeshita and ROH Champion Bandido in action.
The dust has settled on 2025, and Dave Meltzer’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter ratings are in. Beyond the star counts, these ratings offer a fascinating glimpse into evolving trends in professional wrestling. A closer look reveals a shift in what resonates with both critics and audiences, signaling potential directions for the industry in the years to come.
The Rise of the Hybrid Style
The dominance of matches exceeding five stars – particularly those featuring Konosuke Takeshita, Kyle Fletcher, and Bandido – points to a clear preference for a highly athletic, technically proficient, and often brutal style. This isn’t entirely new, but its prevalence in 2025’s top-rated bouts is noteworthy. It’s a blend of strong style, high-flying, and innovative storytelling.
Takeshita’s consistent presence in high-scoring matches, across both AEW and NJPW, demonstrates his ability to excel in this hybrid environment. His matches with Will Ospreay and Kazuchika Okada consistently delivered, showcasing a willingness to push physical boundaries while maintaining compelling narratives. This style isn’t just about impressive moves; it’s about building drama and emotional investment through those moves.
The Impact of CMLL’s Resurgence
The significant number of CMLL matches appearing on Meltzer’s list – particularly those involving Mascara Dorada – is a strong indicator of the promotion’s growing influence. For years, CMLL was often overlooked in Western wrestling discussions. However, 2025 saw a renewed focus on their unique blend of lucha libre tradition and modern athleticism. This resurgence is partly due to increased international collaborations and a greater appreciation for the artistry of lucha libre.
Did you know? CMLL’s Torneo Cibernetico, a multi-man elimination match, consistently ranks high in fan and critic evaluations due to its chaotic energy and unpredictable nature.
Storytelling Beyond the Championship
While championship matches are always important, the high ratings awarded to non-title bouts – like the Kyle Fletcher vs. Mike Bailey clash and the Hangman Page vs. Will Ospreay Texas Death Match – suggest that compelling storytelling is becoming increasingly crucial. Fans are craving matches with personal stakes, intense rivalries, and innovative match types, even if a title isn’t on the line.
The success of the “loser leaves town” stipulation, exemplified by Saya Kamitani vs. Tam Nakano, highlights the power of high-stakes drama. These stipulations elevate the emotional investment and create a sense of urgency that resonates with audiences. It’s a reminder that wrestling is, at its core, about compelling narratives.
The Evolution of Women’s Wrestling
The inclusion of several women’s matches in the top 40 – including IYO SKY vs. Rhea Ripley vs. Bianca Belair at WrestleMania 41 and Saya Kamitani vs. Tam Nakano – demonstrates the continued growth and recognition of women’s wrestling. These matches weren’t simply included as tokens; they were legitimately among the best of the year, showcasing athleticism, storytelling, and a growing level of mainstream acceptance.
Pro Tip: Promotions looking to elevate their women’s divisions should focus on long-term storytelling, character development, and providing women wrestlers with the same opportunities and resources as their male counterparts.
The Continued Appeal of Extreme Stipulations
Matches like Cody Rhodes vs. John Cena’s street fight and the various cage and TLC matches consistently draw high ratings. This suggests that fans still have a strong appetite for high-risk, high-impact action. However, it’s important to note that these stipulations must be used strategically and with a clear purpose. Simply adding a gimmick for the sake of it won’t guarantee success.
Looking Ahead: Trends to Watch
Based on the 2025 ratings, several trends are likely to continue shaping the wrestling landscape:
- Increased International Collaboration: The success of AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door and the prominence of CMLL suggest that cross-promotional events and talent exchanges will become more common.
- Focus on In-Ring Work: The emphasis on athleticism and technical skill will likely continue, pushing wrestlers to constantly innovate and refine their craft.
- Storytelling as a Priority: Promotions will need to invest in compelling narratives and character development to capture and retain audience attention.
- Elevated Women’s Competition: The growth of women’s wrestling will continue, with more opportunities and recognition for female performers.
FAQ
Q: Do star ratings actually matter to the average wrestling fan?
A: While not everyone follows star ratings closely, they can influence perception and generate buzz around certain matches and performers.
Q: What is “strong style” wrestling?
A: Strong style is a wrestling style originating in Japan, characterized by realistic, hard-hitting strikes and a focus on physical endurance.
Q: Where can I find more information about Dave Meltzer’s ratings?
A: You can find more information on Wrestling Observer/F4WOnline.com.
What are your thoughts on the top matches of 2025? Share your opinions in the comments below! Don’t forget to explore more wrestling news and analysis on our site. Click here to read more.
