Viihdepainis

Viihdepainis, often translated as "entertainment wrestling" or "sports entertainment," is a form of professional wrestling that prioritizes storytelling, character development, and theatrical presentation over the traditional athletic contest. While it shares many physical elements with legitimate combat sports, the outcomes of matches in viihdepainis are predetermined, and the performances are scripted to create a dramatic and engaging spectacle for the audience.

The focus in viihdepainis is on the narratives and rivalries between performers, known as wrestlers. These characters are often larger-than-life, embodying distinct personalities that range from heroic "faces" to villainous "heels." The wrestlers engage in staged combat, executing pre-arranged moves and sequences designed to elicit specific emotional responses from the viewers. These performances are carefully choreographed to ensure the safety of the participants, though the inherent physicality can still lead to injuries.

Promotional companies, such as WWE, AEW, and New Japan Pro-Wrestling, are the primary producers of viihdepainis. They develop ongoing storylines, create elaborate entrances, and produce a variety of shows and events that build towards major pay-per-view spectacles. The appeal of viihdepainis lies in its unique blend of athletic prowess, dramatic acting, and athletic showmanship, offering a form of entertainment that combines elements of sports, theatre, and soap opera.