The Evolution of Wrestling’s Storytellers: Is Jeremy Borash the Next ‘Mean’ Gene Okerlund?
The wrestling industry isn’t built on moves alone; it’s built on stories. And for decades, ‘Mean’ Gene Okerlund was the master storyteller, the interviewer who could elevate a promo, build anticipation, and sell a match with a single question. Now, with Okerlund’s passing, the question isn’t just who can replace him, but how the role of the wrestling interviewer – and the broader skillset of a behind-the-scenes creative force – is evolving in the modern era. The answer, according to industry veterans, may lie with Jeremy Borash, and signals a shift towards multi-hyphenate talent in professional wrestling.
Beyond the Interview: The Expanding Role of Wrestling’s Creative Minds
Jeff Jarrett, speaking on his “My World with Jeff Jarrett” podcast, believes Borash embodies the spirit of Okerlund. “I think he’s the modern-day Mean Gene, because you can’t put your thumb on ‘Why’s Gene so good?’ Well, Gene can do your own promo, his own promo, the talent’s promo, sell something,” Jarrett explained (h/t Wrestling Inc.). This highlights a crucial point: Okerlund wasn’t just an interviewer. He was a versatile performer, capable of contributing on multiple levels. This versatility is becoming increasingly vital in today’s wrestling landscape.
The modern wrestling producer, writer, or on-screen personality is no longer confined to a single role. The demand for individuals who can seamlessly transition between creative tasks – from scripting promos to producing matches to even appearing on camera – is skyrocketing. This trend is driven by several factors, including the need for cost-effectiveness, the desire for more streamlined creative control, and the increasing complexity of wrestling narratives.
Jeremy Borash: A Career Built on Versatility
Borash’s career trajectory perfectly illustrates this shift. Starting with WCW’s “WCW Live!” streaming audio program and co-hosting WCW shows, he quickly demonstrated an ability to connect with audiences. His move to TNA (now Impact Wrestling) in 2002 saw him wear an astonishing number of hats: ring announcer, video editor, show writer, and eventually, lead play-by-play announcer. He even stepped into the ring for a match at Slammiversary 2017, showcasing a willingness to do whatever it takes to contribute to the show.
Now in WWE, Borash’s influence extends even further. Kevin Nash famously dubbed him the “Pat Patterson to Triple H’s Vince McMahon,” a testament to his trusted position within the company’s creative structure. He was the lead producer for The Undertaker’s critically acclaimed “Boneyard” match at WrestleMania 36, a clear indication of his ability to shape and execute major storylines. This demonstrates the growing importance of producers who can not only understand the nuances of wrestling psychology but also translate that understanding into compelling visual storytelling.
The Future of Wrestling Storytelling: From Specialists to Generalists
The rise of individuals like Jeremy Borash suggests a future where wrestling companies prioritize creative versatility over specialized skills. While exceptional in-ring performers will always be essential, the demand for those who can contribute to all facets of the production – from writing and producing to on-screen performance – will only increase. This isn’t to say that specialized roles will disappear, but rather that the most valuable employees will be those who can adapt and contribute across multiple disciplines.
This trend also has implications for aspiring wrestling professionals. The traditional path of focusing solely on in-ring training may need to be supplemented with skills in writing, video editing, and public speaking. A well-rounded skillset will be crucial for standing out in an increasingly competitive industry. PWInsider.com provides further insights into the industry’s evolving talent needs.
Ultimately, the legacy of ‘Mean’ Gene Okerlund isn’t just about his interviewing skills; it’s about his ability to elevate the entire wrestling product. Jeremy Borash, and others like him, are carrying that torch forward, demonstrating that the future of wrestling storytelling lies in the hands of those who can do it all. What skills do you think will be most valuable for wrestling creatives in the next five years? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
