One of the things that can get a performer over (aka popular) quicker is the use of a catchphrase. The performer really has to sell the catchphrase. Therefore, a good catchphrase needs to be shorter, repeatable by the fans and must come naturally from the character. The catchphrase doesn’t even have to be cool. It just has to resonate with the fans. A catchphrase can help get a performer a foot in the door but then talent and charisma gets them the rest of the way into our hearts.
That’s not to say that a catchphrase is even necessary. Some of the best talkers in the business did not rely on catchphrases. I’m talking about Mick Foley, Jake the Snake, Brian Pillman, Kevin Sullivan, William Regal, Rick Rude, Terry Funk, etc. However, I love a good catchphrase because it resonates in my head long after the interview is over and the crowd enjoys delivering it along with the performer.
I have personally shouted this one at the top of my lungs at a wrestling show. It was a wrestling show where Daniel Bryan did not even appear. It was a wrestling show for a completely different company. That is the power of the Yes Movement. It is amazing to see a crowd of thousands chanting ‘Yes!’ and raising their hands in the air in unison.
“Are you ready?” – Degeneration X
Alright, I could have included how they always used to yell “Suck it!” but I never really liked that catchphrase. The one that got me fired up was Triple H growling ‘Are you Ready?’ which I think was more recent. Still, you can hear the crowd chanting along with him so it was undeniably popular.
“Believe in the Shield.” – The Shield
This catchphrase never fails to get me excited, especially since they stopped having Roman Reigns scream it at the screen. Now one of the members of the Shield delivers the line with a seething growl.
“Rest. In. Peace.” – Undertaker
I am a grown man now and seeing the Undertaker slowly growl out this line while rolling his eyes back makes me shiver. It always made me believe that his opponent was about to succumb to the Tombstone Piledriver.
“Woo Woo Woo! You Know it!” – Zack Ryder
Alright, I included this one on the list because it makes me laugh. It is a truly goofy and ridiculous catchphrase but Zack Ryder definitely sold the hell out of it.
“Because I’m the Miz and I’m Awesome!” – The Miz
A simple catchphrase for a cocky performer but it totally fits. I have to admit that I completely ripped off this catchphrase several years ago. It really helped a third rate reality star boost himself into being a top level performer.
“I’m afraid I’ve got some bad news.” – Bad News Barrett
This one was actually really annoying at first but it really has grown on me. This one started as Wade Barrett appearing and actually delivering some bad news. He repeated it over and over and over until I liked it. Part of that is he obviously gets a lot of pleasure out of delivering the catchphrase.
Wolf of Words 