Ric Flair Explores Levels of Success in Comparison to Gunther: “If You’re Comparing Him to Me, Come On, There’s Levels to the Game

September 6, 2025

Wrestling Legend Ric Flair has weighed in on a recent discussion sparked by Bret “Hitman” Hart regarding the nuances of professional wrestling. Flair acknowledged Hart’s exceptional technical skills while elaborating on the basic differences in their approaches to the sport.

The clash of styles: hart’s Precision vs. Flair’s Power

The question of whether wrestling artistry lies in technical execution or impactful physicality has long captivated fans. Both Hart and Flair stand as icons, yet they embodied distinctly different philosophies within the ring.

Flair, during a recent conversation, readily conceded Hart’s position as a master technician. However, he highlighted a key divergence: Hart’s preference for minimizing physical punishment. “I agree with Bret as far as being one of the greatest technical performers of all time. That goes without saying,” Flair stated. “But Bret never liked to get smacked, and that’s the way I worked.”

Flair emphasized that his signature hard-hitting style wasn’t accidental; it was a purposeful tactic. He argued that the intensity of his attacks-on opponents like Ricky Steamboat, Sting, and even The Rock-served to heighten the realism and emotional connection of the matches.

“For me with someone like Ricky Steamboat, I hit Steamboat as hard as I could. I hit Sting as hard as I could and the peopel could feel it.Especially when you’re out on the floor. I even watched a match between me and The Rock recently. I was smacking the hell out of The Rock. He didn’t care.”

Assessing the Current Generation: Gunther‘s Impact

Flair also offered his preliminary thoughts on current WWE Superstar Gunther.While admitting he hasn’t extensively followed Gunther’s career, Flair acknowledged his striking physical presence and captivating facial expressions. However,he refrained from drawing direct comparisons to himself.

“For gunther, I haven’t watched him enough, but what they find fascinating about Gunther is his look. He has a tremendous look.Because when he wrestled Pat McAfee. Pat McAfee was 10 times the athlete that he is. But Gunther has a great look.His facials are great and all that. But if you’re comparing him to me,come on,there’s levels to the game.”

Did You Know? ric Flair’s “Wooo!” has become one of the most recognizable sounds in professional wrestling history, frequently enough imitated by fans worldwide.

Comparing Wrestling Philosophies

The contrasting styles of Hart and Flair represent a broader debate within wrestling: should matches prioritize intricate maneuvers and technical precision, or visceral impact and storytelling through physicality?

Wrestler	Primary Style	Key Characteristics
Bret “hitman” Hart	technical	Precision, Submission Holds, Ring Psychology
Ric Flair	Brawling/Showmanship	Physicality, Charisma, Storytelling
Gunther	Powerhouse	Dominance, Striking Ability, Intimidation

This dynamic tension remains a core element of professional wrestling’s appeal, with each approach offering a unique and compelling experience for fans.

The Evolution of Wrestling Styles

Professional wrestling has continually evolved, incorporating elements from different martial arts, athleticism, and theatrical performance.While styles like Hart’s and Flair’s represent distinct eras, modern wrestlers often blend these approaches to create a more versatile and dynamic in-ring presence. The industry continues to see shifts in fan preferences and evolving expectations for what constitutes a captivating match. WWE’s history details much of this evolution.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the difference between Bret Hart’s and Ric Flair’s wrestling styles?

  Bret Hart favored a technical style emphasizing precision and skillful maneuvers, while Ric flair was known for his brawling, hard-hitting approach complemented by charismatic showmanship.

• What did Ric Flair say about Gunther?

  ric Flair praised Gunther’s impressive physical appearance and facial expressions but stated that he did not believe Gunther was on the same level as himself.

• Why did Ric Flair emphasize physicality in his matches?

  Flair believed that impactful strikes and a sense of real danger enhanced the emotional connection fans felt with the matches, making them more compelling.

• Is there a “best” wrestling style?

  That’s subjective. Both technical and physical styles have their merits, and many fans appreciate a blend of both. It depends on individual preferences.

• How has wrestling evolved over the years?

  Wrestling has incorporated elements from various martial arts, athleticism, and theatrical performance, with modern wrestlers often blending different approaches.

do you believe a wrestler’s style is more vital than their charisma? What makes a wrestling match truly unforgettable for you? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

To what extent dose Ric Flair’s assessment of “levels to the game” prioritize drawing power and cultural impact over championship wins when evaluating wrestling success?

The Nature Boy’s Assessment of the Ring General

Ric Flair, the 16-time World Champion, recently weighed in on comparisons between his legendary career and the current dominance of Gunther in WWE. Flair’s now-iconic phrase, “There’s levels to the game,” perfectly encapsulates his perspective. but what exactly does Flair mean when he discusses these “levels,” and how do they apply to a comparison with Gunther? This article dives deep into the nuances of their achievements, impact, and lasting legacies within professional wrestling. We’ll explore championship reigns, drawing power, and cultural influence – key metrics for defining success in the squared circle.

Deconstructing “Levels to the Game”: Flair’s Criteria for Greatness

Flair’s statement isn’t simply about championship numbers. It’s a holistic evaluation of a performer’s ability to connect with audiences, generate revenue, and transcend the wrestling bubble. here’s a breakdown of the “levels” as understood through the lens of Ric Flair’s career:

Longevity: Flair’s career spanned five decades, consistently reinventing himself and remaining a top draw.

Charisma & Promo Work: The “Nature Boy” persona was instantly recognizable and captivating. His ability on the microphone was unparalleled.

In-Ring Psychology: Flair wasn’t just about flashy moves; he was a master of storytelling within the match itself.

Drawing Power: Flair consistently headlined major events and drew significant crowds, proving his box office appeal.

Cultural Impact: The Ric Flair lifestyle became synonymous with luxury, excess, and confidence, influencing popular culture.

Gunther’s rise: A Modern Wrestling Powerhouse

Gunther, the current Intercontinental Champion, has established himself as a formidable force in WWE. His reign has been characterized by brutal intensity and a commitment to strong style wrestling.Let’s examine his accomplishments:

Record-Breaking Intercontinental championship Reign: Gunther’s current run with the IC title is one of the longest in the championship’s history, surpassing previous records held by wrestling legends.

Dominant In-Ring Style: His hard-hitting, European wrestling style has resonated with fans seeking a more realistic and impactful presentation.

Credibility & Intimidation: Gunther projects an aura of invincibility, making every match feel like a legitimate contest.

Strong Fan Connection: Despite a lack of elaborate character work, Gunther has cultivated a loyal fanbase through his consistent performance.

Comparing championship Reigns: Numbers Tell Part of the Story

While Gunther’s Intercontinental Championship reign is impressive, it’s crucial to contextualize it within the broader landscape of championship history.

| Championship | Ric Flair | Gunther (as of Sept 6, 2025) |

|—|—|—|

| World Heavyweight Championship | 16 reigns | 0 |

| WWE championship | 2 reigns | 0 |

| Intercontinental Championship | 0 | 1 (ongoing, record-breaking) |

Flair’s 16 World Championships represent a level of sustained success that remains unmatched. Though, the value of a championship has evolved over time. The Intercontinental Championship, while prestigious, doesn’t carry the same weight as a World Championship.

The “Drawing Power” Differential: A Key Distinction

This is where Flair’s argument about “levels” becomes especially compelling. during his prime, Ric Flair was the* draw in many territories. He consistently filled arenas and generated significant revenue for promoters. While Gunther is a valuable asset to WWE, his individual drawing power hasn’t yet reached the same level as Flair’s peak. This isn’t a criticism of Gunther, but a recognition of the different eras and business models of professional wrestling.

Beyond the Ring: Cultural Influence and Legacy

Ric Flair’s impact extends far beyond his in-ring accomplishments. The “Nature Boy” persona has been referenced in music, movies, and television. His catchphrases (“Wooo!”) and signature moves are instantly recognizable even to casual fans. Gunther,while respected within the wrestling community,hasn’t yet achieved the same level of mainstream cultural penetration.

The Evolution of Wrestling & Comparing Eras

It’s important to acknowledge the evolution of professional wrestling. The industry has changed dramatically since Flair’s prime.The rise of social media,streaming services,and pay-per-view have altered the way fans consume wrestling. Comparing performers across different eras is inherently challenging. Gunther is a product of the modern wrestling landscape, while Flair thrived in a different habitat