Vivek Suganthan R, M. Optom
Assistant Professor, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, India
Professional wrestling represents a unique fusion of sport and entertainment, combining athletic performance with scripted storytelling and dramatic personas. Wrestlers execute high-impact manoeuvres while engaging audiences through character-driven narratives, making wrestling a globally popular spectacle. However, the intense physical demands of the sport carry significant risks, particularly with respect to ocular injuries. (1,2)
Wrestlers routinely push their bodies to extreme limits, exposing themselves to a wide range of injuries, including those affecting the eyes and surrounding structures. Understanding the nature of these ocular injuries, their underlying causes, and effective prevention strategies is essential to improving safety within the wrestling ring.
Common Ocular Injuries in Professional Wrestling
Eyelid Lacerations: Frequently caused by blunt trauma from punches, kicks, or falls. These injuries may require suturing and can result in long-term cosmetic concerns if inadequately managed. (3)
Corneal Abrasions: Scratches to the corneal surface can occur due to accidental finger pokes, contact with equipment, or collisions with other wrestlers. These injuries are often painful and may temporarily impair vision. (3)
Orbital Fractures: High-impact collisions or powerful manoeuvres can fracture the orbital bones, leading to swelling, bruising, diplopia, and restricted eye movements, often necessitating urgent medical evaluation. (3)
Retinal Injuries: Although relatively rare, severe trauma may result in retinal tears or detachments, which require immediate ophthalmic intervention to prevent permanent vision loss. (3)
It is important to distinguish between injuries that are exaggerated or staged as part of wrestling’s scripted “kayfabe” and those that are genuine, potentially serious medical emergencies. (4)
Notable Incidents in Wrestling History
- Kairi Sane: During a televised match on WWE Raw, Kairi Sane sustained a significant eye injury after misjudging a leap from the top rope and colliding face-first with the announcers’ table. The injury required stitches but did not prevent her from completing the match, highlighting both the resilience of wrestlers and the risks inherent in high-risk manoeuvres. (5)
- Rhea Ripley: Rhea Ripley suffered a fractured right orbital bone during a physical brawl on WWE Raw, reportedly following a headbutt spot involving other wrestlers. Imaging confirmed the fracture, and the injury necessitated an extended recovery period, underscoring the potential severity of ocular trauma in wrestling. (6)
Causes and Risk Factors
The risk of ocular injury in professional wrestling is influenced by multiple factors, including high-impact strikes, aerial manoeuvres, and collisions. The frequent use of foreign objects—such as chairs, ladders, tables, trash cans, thumbtacks, and other weapons—further increases the likelihood of eye trauma. Additionally, the lack of protective eyewear during performances places wrestlers at greater risk. (7)
Figure 1: Key Causes of Ocular Injuries in Professional Wrestling
To mitigate the risk of ocular injuries in professional wrestling, several strategies can be implemented, such as education and training, medical oversight, and the use of protective gear. (8)
Conclusion
Ocular injuries are an unfortunate reality in professional wrestling due to the physical demands and risks of the sports. By understanding common types of injuries, notable incidents, causes, and prevention strategies, both wrestlers and promoters can work towards creating a safer environment in which athletes can perform at their best while minimising harm. As the sport evolves, prioritising health and safety will be essential for protecting these athletes who entertain millions around the world.
References
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica. (2025). Vince McMahon: Biography, WWE, wrestling, and facts. Encyclopedia Britannica.
- Mehrjerdi, M. A. Z., Gaieeni, A. A., Ashrafi, E., & Zaheh, M. K. (2014). Eye injury in wrestlers: A case series study. Indian Journal of Fundamental and Applied Life Sciences, 5(S1), 2712–2715.
- Ohana, O., & Alabiad, C. (2021). Ocular-related sports injuries. The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery, 32(4), 1606–1611.
- Morris, C. (2024). Kayfabe: What professional wrestling can teach us about training. The COVE.
- Staff, T. (2024). Kairi Sane suffers eye injury during WWE Raw. TMZ.
- Zucker, J. (2024). WWE’s Rhea Ripley out indefinitely after orbital fracture. Bleacher Report.
- Ifantides, C., et al. (2020). Less-lethal weapons resulting in ophthalmic injuries. Ophthalmology and Therapy, 9(3), 1–7.
- Mishra, A., & Verma, A. K. (2012). Sports-related ocular injuries. Medical Journal, Armed Forces India, 68(3), 260–266.
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