Wrestlers Entrance Music: Pros and Cons

 This is a subject on which I'm split when it comes to my opinion. For the most part, wrestling entrance music adds to the show. But on the other hand, it diminishes the surprise factor; and it wastes a lot of time on the show.  But regardless, here we go.

In professional wrestling, entrance music is as iconic as a steel chair or a perfectly timed dropkick. From the glass-shattering opening of Stone Cold Steve Austin’s theme to the eerie gong that signals The Undertaker’s arrival, music has become a powerful storytelling tool in the industry. But is it always a good thing? Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of wrestlers having entrance music.

Advantages of Entrance Music

1. Instant Recognition
A wrestler’s music is often their auditory calling card. As soon as the first few notes hit, fans immediately recognize who’s about to hit the stage. That kind of instant connection boosts crowd reaction and anticipation.

2. Establishes Character
Entrance themes help define a wrestler’s persona. A hard-hitting metal riff might suit a no-nonsense brawler, while a slower, haunting tune may reflect a mysterious or supernatural character. Music can say more about a wrestler in 10 seconds than a promo might in five minutes.

3. Creates Memorable Moments
Great matches are made better with unforgettable entrances. Think of Ric Flair’s grand orchestral walk-ins or The Sandman making his way through the crowd to “Enter Sandman.” These moments become etched in wrestling history because the music elevated the entire presentation.

4. Builds Hype and Energy
Music can ignite a crowd. It builds energy, helps fans emotionally invest in the match, and gives the wrestler a psychological advantage by getting fans on their side before the bell even rings.

5. Marketing & Merchandising
Catchy or popular entrance themes can be monetized. WWE, AEW, and other companies sell music albums, use themes for promotional material, and sometimes even chart on music platforms—adding another revenue stream.

Disadvantages of Entrance Music

1. Over-Reliance
Some wrestlers depend too heavily on their entrance music to get a reaction. When the music stops, and it’s time to perform, the excitement may not carry over if the in-ring skills or storytelling fall flat.

2. Diminishes Surprise
Music cues often eliminate the element of surprise in run-ins or unexpected returns. If you want a truly shocking moment, silence—or a delayed reveal—might be more effective than a familiar theme hitting.

3. Risk of Generic or Forgettable Themes
Not all entrance music is created equal. A bland, generic track can hurt a wrestler’s presentation more than it helps. Some performers are saddled with music that doesn't fit their character, making them less memorable.

4. Production Dependency
Technical glitches can be embarrassing or disruptive. If a wrestler’s entrance music doesn’t play, cuts out, or plays the wrong theme, it can kill the moment and hurt the overall illusion of professionalism.

5. Can Overshadow Wrestler’s Identity
In some cases, the theme becomes more famous than the wrestler. This can create a disconnect—especially when the music gets more pop than the performer themselves.

Entrance music is a powerful tool in pro wrestling, capable of enhancing a wrestler’s identity, elevating crowd energy, and cementing moments into pop culture. But like any tool, it must be used wisely. When done right, it becomes an extension of the performer. When done wrong—or relied on too heavily—it becomes a crutch.

Wrestling at its core is storytelling. Music, when used effectively, simply adds the soundtrack.