Dave Meltzer's Wrestling Observer Newsletter Ratings: A Comprehensive Guide

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• History of the Ratings
• Ratings Scale and Methodology
• Ratings Categories
• Recent Meltzer Ratings Analysis
• Notable Matches and Moments
• Controversies and Criticisms
• Stories Behind the Ratings
• How to Use the Meltzer Ratings
• FAQs

Introduction

In the world of professional wrestling, the Meltzer ratings hold a legendary status. Published by the Wrestling Observer Newsletter (WON), these ratings are considered the gold standard for evaluating wrestling matches and performances. Created by Dave Meltzer, the founder and editor of WON, the ratings have been used for decades to rank and compare matches from around the globe.

History of the Ratings

Meltzer began publishing the ratings in the 1980s, drawing inspiration from the star rating system used in movie reviews. Initially, the ratings were primarily based on the technical aspects of the match. However, over time, Meltzer expanded the criteria to include story, execution, crowd reaction, and overall entertainment value.

Ratings Scale and Methodology

The Meltzer ratings are based on a five-star scale, with 0.25-star increments. A typical match receives a rating of 2.5 to 3.5 stars. Matches rated above 4.0 stars are considered exceptional, while matches below 2.0 stars are considered poor.

Meltzer's methodology for assigning ratings involves meticulous observation and analysis of the match, taking into account factors such as:

• Technical proficiency
• Storytelling
• Character development
• Crowd engagement
• Ring psychology

Ratings Categories

In addition to the overall rating, Meltzer also assigns categories to each match, providing further context and insight. These categories include:

• Workrate: Assesses the athletic ability and technical skills of the wrestlers.
• Psychology: Evaluates how effectively the wrestlers engage with the audience and create an emotional connection.
• Heat: Measures the intensity of the crowd's reaction and involvement.
• Execution: Examines the precision and flow of the match's execution.
• Entertainment: Assesses the overall watchability and enjoyment factor of the match.

Recent Meltzer Ratings Analysis

The following table shows the average Meltzer ratings for the main events of select WWE and AEW pay-per-view (PPV) events in 2022:

Notable Matches and Moments

Throughout the years, Meltzer has assigned record-breaking ratings to a select few matches that have become legendary in wrestling history. Here are some of the most notable:

• Kenny Omega vs. Kazuchika Okada at Wrestle Kingdom 11 (2017): 6.25 stars
• CM Punk vs. John Cena at Money in the Bank 2011: 5.0 stars
• Shawn Michaels vs. The Undertaker at WrestleMania 25 (2009): 5.0 stars
• Bryan Danielson vs. John Cena at SummerSlam 2013: 4.75 stars

Controversies and Criticisms

While the Meltzer ratings are widely respected, they have also faced criticism. Some critics argue that the ratings are too subjective and that they can influence the booking of matches. Others criticize Meltzer's lack of transparency in his rating methodology.

Despite these criticisms, the Meltzer ratings remain one of the most influential and widely referenced metrics in professional wrestling.

Stories Behind the Ratings

Beyond their numerical value, the Meltzer ratings often reveal fascinating stories about the matches they evaluate.

• The "Greatest Match Ever" at Wrestle Kingdom 11: When Kenny Omega and Kazuchika Okada were awarded a record-breaking 6.25 stars for their match at Wrestle Kingdom 11, it sparked a debate about the true nature of a "perfect match."
• The "Yes! Movement" at SummerSlam 2013: Daniel Bryan's 4.75-star match with John Cena at SummerSlam 2013 played a pivotal role in the rise of the "Yes! Movement" and the eventual coronation of Bryan as WWE World Heavyweight Champion.
• The "Forbidden Door" at AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door: The 2022 AEW x NJPW Forbidden Door pay-per-view featured several matches that received high Meltzer ratings, including Will Ospreay vs. Orange Cassidy (4.5 stars) and FTR vs. United Empire (4.25 stars).

How to Use the Meltzer Ratings

The Meltzer ratings can be a valuable tool for fans, wrestlers, and promoters alike.

• Fans: Use the ratings to identify matches that are likely to be memorable and entertaining.
• Wrestlers: Study the ratings to improve their in-ring performances and storytelling abilities.
• Promoters: Use the ratings to gauge audience reactions and identify wrestlers who can deliver consistently high-quality matches.

FAQs

Q: Are the Meltzer ratings always accurate?

A: The Meltzer ratings are subjective and based on Meltzer's own opinions. While they are generally accurate, there may be instances where fans disagree with the assigned ratings.

Q: Do wrestlers book their matches based on the Meltzer ratings?

A: While some wrestlers may consider the Meltzer ratings, it is unlikely that they directly book their matches based on them.

Q: What is the highest Meltzer rating ever given?

A: The highest Meltzer rating ever given is 6.25 stars, which has been awarded to Kenny Omega vs. Kazuchika Okada at Wrestle Kingdom 11 and Hiroshi Tanahashi vs. Kazuchika Okada at Wrestle Kingdom 13.

Q: What is the lowest Meltzer rating ever given?

A: The lowest Meltzer rating ever given is -5 stars, which has been awarded to a few matches, including The Great Abdullah vs. The Sheik at the infamous "Big Time Wrestling" show in 1982.

Q: How often does Meltzer give out 5-star ratings?

A: Meltzer rarely awards 5-star ratings. In recent years, he has averaged around one 5-star match per year.

Q: What is the average Meltzer rating for a WWE match?

A: The average Meltzer rating for a WWE match is around 3.0 stars.

Q: What is the average Meltzer rating for an AEW match?

A: The average Meltzer rating for an AEW match is around 3.5 stars.

Q: Are the Meltzer ratings fair?

A: The Meltzer ratings are based on Meltzer's own opinions and can be subjective. However, Meltzer is a highly respected wrestling journalist and his ratings are generally considered to be fair and unbiased.