Wrestling and gaming worlds continue to intersect, with Roman Reigns, who plays Akuma in the new Street Fighter movie, stating that video games have become a primary downtime activity for WWE performers. Reigns explained that this hobby offers a healthier alternative to the "extracurricular" pursuits of past generations of wrestlers.
Speaking at the Street Fighter premiere, Reigns noted that while he doesn't play as much as he used to, gaming has positively replaced "some of the other extracurricular activities wrestlers would do." He elaborated that video games keep performers from "exploring the towns too much," becoming a significant pastime within the locker room.
Historically, professional wrestlers have been known for various off-ring antics. Tales abound of pranks, impersonations, and late-night exploits, often stemming from the stresses of life on the road. In contrast, many current WWE performers have been observed bringing gaming setups with them, with the Nintendo Switch being a frequent companion due to extensive travel schedules.
This passion for gaming extends beyond casual play. Former WWE star Xavier Woods leveraged his interest into a successful YouTube channel, UpUpDownDown, which features fellow performers engaging with video games. Longtime wrestler Randy Orton is also a notable gaming enthusiast, having dedicated over 600 hours to Elden Ring while recovering from a spinal injury.
Furthermore, elements of video game culture have influenced wrestling personas. Wrestler Kenny Omega has incorporated references to Street Fighter and Final Fantasy VII into his moveset and ring entrances. His appearance at Wrestle Kingdom 17, themed around Final Fantasy's Sephiroth, included a distinctive outfit and music, showcasing the blend of gaming and wrestling aesthetics. The Street Fighter movie itself has received mixed reviews, with one assessment describing it as "entertaining for some silly, mindless fun, but also a very messy movie that never quite figures out its tone."