WWE Hall of Famer Rob Van Dam believes that WWE RAW’s upcoming move to Netflix could usher in a new era of uncensored language in pro wrestling—and some fans may have to adjust.
Speaking on his “1 of a Kind” podcast, RVD predicted that the shift away from network TV and into a streaming environment with looser content restrictions will inevitably lead to the normalization of swearing in mainstream wrestling. Known for his unfiltered style and blunt delivery, Van Dam argued that intent matters more than vocabulary when it comes to language.
“Shouldn’t it be the intention that you would want to control, if anything—not the words?” RVD asked, noting how meanings differ across cultures.
“If I say ‘I’m gonna smack the crap out of you,’ that should come across more offensively than if I say, ‘Man, Dom, I really f***ing enjoy your company.’”
RVD acknowledged his own reputation for using adult language:
“I know a lot of people think one of my lesser qualities is vulgarity. I get that. But it’s real-world talk to me. I don’t have much of a filter.”
Turning his attention back to WWE’s streaming future, Van Dam suggested that RAW’s Netflix deal will reveal the true, unfiltered sides of many superstars:
“Now that RAW is on Netflix, they’re able to swear. And guess what? That’s going to normalize it. People are going to find out all these other wrestlers swear too.”
He also had a clear message for those who might be offended by the shift:
“Kids and people who choose to be offended by adult language—they’re going to have to get used to it. As the thought of having censored language diminishes, that’s the way it should be. When you’re watching Netflix, the guy you thought was squeaky clean—Cody Rhodes, Jey Uso, whoever—you might hear them say s*** or f*** or damn. And I’m just warning you… Is that going to crack some people?
Tough enough, Buttercup. That’s it.”
Stay with PWMania.com for more updates on WWE’s transition to Netflix and how it could change the face of Monday Night RAW.
