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WWE Universal Champion Seth Rollins recently spoke with the Houston Chronicle and talked about the evolution of pro wrestling.

The interviewer noted that they go through periods where they tune out of wrestling, then start watching again, and have been impressed with how high-flying things are these days, and with fewer cartoon-type characters. Rollins said they’re always trying to cater to the different audience, and trying to stay ahead.

“Yeah, it’s interesting seeing that evolution from the outside perspective,” Rollins said. “In the ring it’s a little different. The pace and energy and style aren’t different than what you’re accustomed to. But I agree, if you tune out for a decade and come back it doesn’t look the same. It’s a different audience. Attention spans are shorter, everybody has the internet on their cell phone. So wrestling is a different product and we’re catering to that audience. You have to try to stay ahead.”

Regarding his own evolution, Rollins was asked what’s next after being The Kingslayer, a nickname he picked up after defeating Triple H. Rollins reminded the interviewer of his Beastslayer nickname, which he picked up after beating current WWE Champion Brock Lesnar. Rollins said there’s always something to slay, and commented on the arc of his character over the past 7 years.

“You transition into different slayers. Beast Slayer,” Rollins said. “Hey, there’s always something out there to slay. There’s always something out there to slay. You find a way to make a new monster. The arc of my character over seven years has been all over the place. And there’s an infinite number of places to go from here.”

What keeps Rollins going? The WWE fans, especially the younger ones. Rollins was asked about his lengthy run in the pro wrestling business and what’s the secret to the longevity.

“What keeps me going is the fan base,” Rollins revealed. “Especially the younger fan base: A five-year-old kid begging his parents to take him to a show on a Saturday night. A kid who catches a T-shirt and goes home with a memory that won’t leave him. That’s No. 1 for me after 15 years …. Engaging people with stories.”

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