Chris Benoit: What If He Returned In 2022?

The wrestling world is full of "what ifs," and one of the most discussed and debated is: What if Chris Benoit returned to wrestling in 2022? Before diving into this hypothetical scenario, it's crucial to address the tragic circumstances surrounding Benoit's death in 2007. The events of that weekend are well-documented and deeply disturbing, casting a long shadow over his career and legacy. Any discussion about Chris Benoit must acknowledge the gravity of what happened and the impact it had on his family, friends, and the wrestling community.

The Impossibility of a Return

First and foremost, it's important to state the obvious: Chris Benoit cannot return. He passed away in 2007. This article explores a hypothetical scenario purely for the sake of discussion, acknowledging the real-world tragedy that prevents any such return from ever happening. Engaging in this kind of "what if" requires a sensitive approach, understanding the pain and controversy associated with Benoit's name. The focus isn't on glorifying Benoit but rather on examining how the wrestling landscape has changed and how a wrestler with his skillset might be received today.

The Wrestling Landscape in 2022

In 2022, the wrestling world is vastly different from what it was in 2007. WWE is still the dominant force, but promotions like AEW (All Elite Wrestling), NJPW (New Japan Pro-Wrestling), and Impact Wrestling have risen to prominence, offering diverse styles and opportunities for wrestlers. The rise of social media has also transformed how wrestlers connect with fans and build their brands. Given these changes, how might Chris Benoit, the wrestler, have fit into this new landscape? Benoit's in-ring style was known for its intensity, technical precision, and physicality. He was a master of submissions and a relentless competitor. While this style was highly respected in the early 2000s, the wrestling world has evolved. High-flying acrobatics, intricate storylines, and character work have become increasingly important. A wrestler relying solely on technical skill might find it challenging to reach the top in today's environment.

How Benoit's Skills Would Translate

Benoit's technical prowess would undoubtedly be an asset in any era. His ability to chain wrestle, apply submission holds, and tell a story in the ring would still be valuable. However, he would likely need to adapt his style to incorporate more modern elements to appeal to a broader audience. This could involve adding some high-impact moves or developing a more nuanced character. AEW, in particular, might have been a good fit for Benoit. The promotion is known for showcasing a variety of wrestling styles and giving wrestlers more creative freedom. Benoit could have potentially thrived in AEW's competitive environment, working with talents like Bryan Danielson, Jon Moxley, and Kenny Omega. These matchups would have been dream matches for many fans, offering a clash of styles and a high level of intensity.

The Character Work Challenge

One of the biggest challenges for Benoit would have been his character work. While he was a highly respected wrestler, he was never known for his charisma or mic skills. In today's wrestling world, character work is just as important as in-ring ability. Wrestlers need to connect with fans on an emotional level, and this often requires compelling storylines and strong promo skills. Benoit would have needed to improve his ability to tell stories through his promos and develop a more engaging character to resonate with modern audiences. This could have involved working with a manager or developing a more complex backstory.

Public Perception and Controversy

Even if Benoit could adapt his wrestling style and character work, the biggest obstacle to his return would be the public perception of his past. The circumstances surrounding his death would continue to be a major point of contention, and many fans would likely be uncomfortable with his presence in the wrestling world. Any promotion that hired Benoit would face significant backlash from fans, media outlets, and sponsors. It would be a public relations nightmare, and the promotion would need to carefully consider the potential consequences. Some fans might argue that Benoit deserves a second chance, pointing to his accomplishments in the ring and his contributions to the wrestling industry. However, others would argue that his actions are unforgivable and that he should not be given a platform to profit from his past.

Potential Storylines

Let's consider some hypothetical storylines if, against all odds and ethical considerations, Benoit were to return in 2022. In WWE, a storyline could have involved addressing his past and seeking redemption. This would be a highly controversial angle, but it could potentially generate a lot of buzz. Benoit could have portrayed a remorseful figure, acknowledging his mistakes and seeking to make amends. He could have worked with a therapist on screen, exploring the issues that led to his tragic actions. This storyline would require a great deal of sensitivity and careful planning to avoid trivializing the real-life tragedy.

In AEW, a storyline could have focused on Benoit's wrestling skills and his desire to prove himself against the best. He could have been portrayed as a veteran seeking one last chance to compete at the highest level. This storyline could have involved a series of matches against top AEW stars, showcasing Benoit's technical abilities and intensity. However, even in this scenario, the controversy surrounding his past would be unavoidable. AEW would need to address the issue head-on and make it clear that they do not condone his actions.

The Ethical Considerations

It's impossible to separate Chris Benoit, the wrestler, from the tragic events of his personal life. Any discussion about his potential return must acknowledge the ethical considerations involved. Is it right to give a platform to someone who has committed such heinous acts? Can we separate the art from the artist? These are difficult questions with no easy answers. Some people may believe that Benoit should be permanently ostracized from the wrestling world, while others may believe that he deserves a second chance. Ultimately, it's a matter of personal opinion. However, it's important to approach the issue with sensitivity and respect for the victims and their families.

Conclusion

The hypothetical return of Chris Benoit in 2022 is a complex and controversial topic. While his wrestling skills would undoubtedly be valuable in today's wrestling landscape, the ethical considerations and public perception of his past would be major obstacles. It's impossible to ignore the tragic events of 2007, and any discussion about Benoit must acknowledge the pain and suffering he caused. While it's interesting to speculate about how he might have fit into the modern wrestling world, it's important to remember that his actions have had a lasting impact on the wrestling community and beyond. The "what if" scenario is purely hypothetical and serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing mental health issues and domestic violence. Guys, wrestling is entertainment, and sometimes real life can be dark and cruel. Remember to be kind to one another!