Transitioning to retirement is a complex and challenging journey for athletes and performers, particularly for professional wrestlers who embody both roles. After years of captivating audiences with their skill and charisma, the transition can be emotionally and psychologically taxing as wrestlers grapple with the loss of the spotlight, the adrenaline rush, and the unique camaraderie that comes with their industry.
During a recent edition of his podcast, The Snake Pit, WWE Hall of Famer Jake “The Snake” Roberts responded to a fan question asking when he knew it was time to retire. Roberts, who, according to records, last wrestled in 2015, said he should’ve moved on much sooner than that.
“I knew it was time to retire, probably in ’97 or ’98,” said Roberts. “But I just couldn’t stop, man. You know, I just wanted more. And shame on me for going out there when I couldn’t do what I used to do.”
Roberts isn’t the only athlete or wrestler to continue in their field when perhaps their expiration date has passed. Whether it was Brett Favre playing for the Vikings, Shaquille O’Neal lacing up for the Celtics, or, as Roberts pointed to, “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan going to the ring when he could no longer take bumps, the belief is that there is still more to contribute, though particular evidence suggests otherwise.
“You go back out there because you think you can do it. And then, when you get out there, you realize that you can’t. You don’t have the wind. You don’t have the strength. You just can’t, man, your body won’t do it. No matter how much you have in your heart, your body just can’t perform,” said Roberts.
A second-generation star, Roberts began his wrestling career in the early 1970s as a referee before transitioning to a wrestler. Throughout his prime, he employed a methodical approach and psychological warfare, often using silent but menacing monologues to tell compelling stories and captivate audiences with his dark and enigmatic persona.
Yet despite his relatively safe and low-risk style, The Snake couldn’t avoid the bumps and bruises of his profession, nor could he slither away from the undefeated adversary known as Father Time. But in a perfect world, if Roberts could get back in the ring for one more match, he says he would.
“To this day, I wish the f*** I could do it. I’d love to have one more match. But I know I can’t. And it pisses me off.”
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