WWE legend Jake Roberts has openly criticized the upcoming Netflix docuseries WWE: Unreal, calling it a “foolish” move that risks damaging the wrestling product despite its potential financial gains.
Jake Roberts Criticizes WWE: Unreal Ahead of July 29 Netflix Release
On July 29, 2025, WWE will premiere WWE: Unreal on Netflix, a groundbreaking docuseries that offers fans an unprecedented look inside the WWE writers’ room and behind the scenes of major events. However, wrestling icon Jake Roberts voiced strong reservations about the series during his recent Snake Pit podcast.
Roberts admitted he was initially unaware of the show but, after learning about its concept, he remarked, “Like everything else, they make money with it, might as well do that too.” Despite this, he expressed serious doubts about the impact of revealing so much backstage content.
He stated, “I think it’s foolish. I don’t think that product will ever warrant enough money being made for the damage that it’ll do.” Roberts’ concern centers on the idea that exposing the inner workings of WWE could erode the mystique and emotional connection fans have with the sport.
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Why Jake Roberts Believes WWE: Unreal Could Harm Wrestling
Roberts’ main critique focuses on the breaking of “kayfabe,” the long-standing wrestling tradition of maintaining the illusion that storylines and characters are real. By pulling back the curtain on WWE’s creative process, Roberts fears the show could diminish the magic that keeps fans invested.
He also questioned whether the financial benefits from the docuseries would be enough to justify the potential harm to WWE’s product. According to Roberts, the risk of undermining the fan experience might outweigh any profits generated from the series.
What WWE: Unreal Promises to Deliver
Despite the criticism, WWE: Unreal is set to offer fans an intimate look at the company’s creative side. The five-episode series, each about 50 minutes long, will showcase:
- The WWE writers’ room and how storylines are developed.
- Behind-the-scenes footage from TV tapings and premium live events.
- Key moments including RAW’s Netflix debut, the 2025 Royal Rumble, and WrestleMania preparations.
- Appearances by top WWE Superstars like Cody Rhodes, Rhea Ripley, CM Punk, and Charlotte Flair.
This level of access is designed to satisfy fans’ curiosity about the business side of WWE and provide a new perspective on how the spectacle is crafted.
Industry Reactions: Jake Roberts Isn’t Alone
Jake Roberts’ skepticism echoes concerns from other wrestling legends. For example, Steve Austin criticized the decision to expose WWE’s secrets, likening pro wrestling to magic that shouldn’t be revealed. Austin admitted to having an “old-school” mentality, preferring to preserve the illusion for fans rather than breaking it down.
On the other hand, some voices in the industry believe the docuseries could help modernize WWE’s image and attract new viewers, similar to how Netflix’s “Formula 1: Drive to Survive” boosted interest in the sport.
The Debate Over Transparency in Wrestling
The release of WWE: Unreal has reignited a debate about how much transparency is beneficial for wrestling. Supporters argue that behind-the-scenes content can deepen fan engagement and humanize performers. Critics like Roberts warn that too much exposure risks damaging the storytelling and emotional investment that make wrestling unique.
Jake Roberts summed up his position by saying, “The juice might not be worth the squeeze,” implying that the potential fallout from revealing WWE’s inner workings could outweigh any financial or promotional benefits.
Looking Ahead: What WWE: Unreal Means for the Future
As WWE prepares to launch WWE: Unreal, the wrestling community remains divided. Will this docuseries usher in a new era of openness and fan connection, or will it erode the mystique that has defined wrestling for decades?
Regardless of the outcome, Jake Roberts’ candid remarks have sparked a vital conversation about the balance between transparency and tradition in sports entertainment.
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