Ref training?

[Xero]

Just watching one of my old tapes, and Kane chokeslammed a ref... That got me thinking... Do refs have to take the same training as wrestlers, or is it modified? Because I know that they have to learn to takes bumps, but they dont have to wrestle... I'm sure some refs have been wrestlers at one time or another, but what about the ones that are just refs?

[The Mackem]

Yeah where did they learn to over-sell a push the way they do?

[packt up]

Yeah where did they learn to over-sell a push the way they do?

Pauk Durkin :D

[KayfabeMan]

Some referees opt to take both training. They learn to become wrestlers, and then referees. But yes, referee training is different from wrestler training....

Refs learn all the basic reffing' skills and psychology (how to make the three count look more dramatic - stop just before three if it's a close two, etc..) and the "rules" that are set, and how to roll with no DQ matches,etc.. They also learn how to call spots between the wrestlers, and timing, where they need to be in the ring and why and when they need to be there.

A good school will also teach them to get used to TV, and be aware of the cameras, as you don't want to be in the way of a good shot whenever possible (sometimes you can't help it). They learn to take basic bumps like any wrestler would. Usually stuff like being thrown over the top rope or through the middle rope; taking a bodyslam, choke- slam, powerslam, things like that. They learn how to sell punches / kicks, etc...

I've seen a few refs receive "on the job" training,so to speak,from other wrestlers - on how to take or give bumps they've never done before. In some cases you'll need a ref to dish out a punch, or maybe in a spot from the match, a maneuver. Usually the guys will take care of the refs and walk 'em through it. Simple as that, yet very difficult :y:

[Xero]

Thanks, that's great info there KayfabeMan!

[KayfabeMan]

Not a problem; glad I could help :y: