At the recent TNA Wrestling Rebellion 2025 pay-per-view, a high-risk manoeuvre executed by wrestler Leon Slater has ignited significant discussions regarding safety and responsibility in professional wrestling. The moment, notable for its drama and risk, unfolded when Slater attempted a Swanton 450 splash from approximately 15 feet atop the Ultimate X structure. Although he had wrestlers positioned below to catch him, the execution faltered, resulting in Slater landing heavily on the floor. Initial reports suggest he has avoided serious injury, but the incident has raised alarms throughout the wrestling community.
WWE Hall of Famer Rikishi delivered pointed criticism of the situation on a recent episode of his podcast, “Rikishi Fatu Off The Top.” While he had not viewed the footage, he voiced his concerns after receiving a detailed account of the event. “I think that’s bull,” Rikishi said, emphasizing the responsibility of those meant to catch Slater. He stressed the importance of teamwork in such dangerous moments, pointing out that the wrestlers creating what he termed “the make-believe cushion” for Slater failed in their duty.
Rikishi elaborated on the serious implications of such stunts, arguing that they can lead to career-ending injuries in a mere moment. “At any given time — 30 seconds — somebody can end their career,” he remarked. The Hall of Famer differentiated between individual risks he had taken in his career and the collective trust required for high-risk moves, explaining that during his own stunts, such as his infamous fall off the Hell in a Cell in 2000, he ensured appropriate safety measures were in place.
“If that was me, and nobody caught me, I would have had to take a chair to everybody’s head out there,” Rikishi expressed, indicating his frustration with the apparent lack of coordination. His comments underscore the critical need for safety in the ring, particularly as professional wrestling continues to evolve.
In addition to discussing safety, Rikishi used the incident to advocate for a renewed focus on storytelling and match psychology over mere spectacle. He believes that wrestlers can achieve audience engagement through effective practice of facial expressions, body language, and pacing rather than relying solely on dangerous high spots. “Perfect your craft. Perfect your craft. And understand this — this is not a game,” he advised young talent.
This condemnation of the high-risk culture in wrestling resonates with sentiments echoed by many wrestling veterans who have cautioned against an increasing reliance on “wow” moments that carry inherent risks. Rikishi’s comments serve as a crucial reminder of the real-world consequences associated with such performances and the importance of safety and trust in the world of professional wrestling.
Further developments regarding Leon Slater's situation and safety protocols in wrestling are likely to emerge as the community continues to reflect on the implications of such high-risk maneuvers.
Source: Noah Wire Services