Dave Meltzer is a name synonymous with wrestling journalism, particularly through his “Wrestling Observer Newsletter” and his famous star ratings. While some consider Meltzer a valuable resource, others believe he’s far from in touch with what fans actually want. Here’s a look at some of the reasons wrestling fans have a love-hate relationship with him.—
1. His Five-Star Match Ratings Miss the Mark.
For years, Dave Meltzer’s five-star rating system has been a go-to gauge for match quality among some fans, but lately, many feel his ratings have become less credible. Meltzer often awards high scores to matches that others view as mediocre, leaving fans frustrated and questioning his judgment. Critics say he’s too generous with five-star ratings for certain promotions while overlooking deserving matches elsewhere.
2. Meltzer is Seen as Out of Touch with Modern Wrestling.
Meltzer’s longevity in the industry might give him perspective, but fans say it has also made him less connected with what today’s wrestling fanbase wants. Younger fans feel that he hasn’t evolved his viewpoints and remains stuck in a mindset that doesn’t resonate with modern audiences. His criticism of specific promotions or storylines often feels outdated and disconnected from fans’ expectations.
3. Fans Question His Eye for a Good Match.
Despite his reputation, many fans argue that Meltzer often misjudges what makes a match truly great. He tends to prioritize high-impact moves, lengthy bouts, or intense action over storytelling, character work, and crowd engagement. His match preferences have led fans to feel his ratings don’t align with their values, making them question his taste.
4. Accusations of Bias Toward Japanese Wrestling.
Meltzer has been vocal about his admiration for Japanese wrestling, and it shows in his ratings. Fans argue that his bias toward Japanese promotions like New Japan Pro-Wrestling (NJPW) skews his reviews. Matches from Japanese promotions frequently receive higher ratings than their American counterparts, even when fans find them comparable in quality. This perceived favoritism has led to frustration among fans who believe Meltzer undervalues American wrestling.
5. He’s Frequently Wrong About Predictions.
One recurring complaint is that Meltzer’s insider knowledge doesn’t always translate into accurate predictions. Fans often cite his speculative reporting and missed predictions as evidence that he might not be as reliable as his reputation suggests. His guesses about match outcomes, contract signings, and company decisions often miss the mark, eroding confidence in his analysis.—Conclusion: Wrestling Fans Demand More BalanceDave Meltzer has undoubtedly played a significant role in wrestling journalism, but fans’ growing frustrations point to a desire for a fresh perspective. His controversial ratings, perceived favoritism, and outdated viewpoints make many fans wish for more balanced, in-touch wrestling analysts who better represent the evolving world of pro wrestling. Whether Meltzer will adjust his approach remains to be seen, but the criticism signals that the wrestling community is ready for change.
