Chris Benoit Matches: Are They On WWE Network?
\nHey wrestling fans! The question of whether Chris Benoit's matches are available on the WWE Network is a complex one, steeped in controversy and ethical considerations. Let's dive into the details. The WWE Network is WWE's over-the-top streaming service that launched in 2014. As a streaming service, it contains the entire video library of WWE, WCW, and ECW. This includes every WWE, WCW, and ECW pay-per-view. However, due to the circumstances surrounding his death, WWE has taken steps to erase Chris Benoit from their history. This means that while the WWE Network boasts an extensive archive, his matches are conspicuously absent.
Understanding WWE's Position
Following the tragic events of June 2007, WWE faced a monumental decision regarding how to handle Chris Benoit's legacy. The decision to remove Benoit from their programming and historical records wasn't taken lightly, reflecting the gravity of the situation and the sensitivity surrounding it. The removal of Chris Benoit's matches from the WWE Network is a direct consequence of the circumstances surrounding his death. WWE made a decision to essentially erase him from their history due to the tragic and disturbing nature of his final actions. WWE's decision to remove Benoit's matches is based on a number of factors. First and foremost, the company wanted to show respect for the victims of his crimes: his wife, Nancy, and his son, Daniel. The tragedy involved not only the loss of life but also deeply disturbing circumstances that WWE deemed incompatible with their family-friendly brand. Secondly, WWE had to consider the potential impact on their audience, particularly children. Chris Benoit was a top star in WWE. His face was marketed to children, as he was a top merchandise seller, and a favorite on all of WWE's many television programs. WWE's decision to remove Benoit's matches was motivated by a desire to protect their audience and their own image. It's also important to note that WWE's decision isn't absolute. There have been instances where Benoit's matches or mentions of him have appeared in documentaries or historical retrospectives, usually with a disclaimer or context provided. This suggests a nuanced approach, acknowledging his existence while carefully managing his portrayal. Therefore, if you go looking for Chris Benoit matches on the WWE Network, you will not find them. However, there have been rare exceptions where footage including him has been included in documentaries or historical context pieces, but these are exceptions rather than the rule.
Exceptions and Rare Appearances
Although WWE has largely removed Chris Benoit from their archives, there have been a few instances where he has appeared on the WWE Network. Exceptions do exist, although they are rare and usually presented with significant context. These appearances often occur in documentaries or historical retrospectives where Benoit's presence is necessary to provide a complete picture of a particular event or era. For example, footage of Benoit might be included in a documentary about a specific wrestling stable or a historical overview of a particular championship reign. In these cases, WWE typically includes a disclaimer or contextualization to acknowledge the circumstances surrounding his death and explain why the footage is being shown. These disclaimers serve to inform viewers about the sensitive nature of the content and provide a framework for understanding Benoit's role in the broader narrative. For example, a documentary about Eddie Guerrero might include footage of Chris Benoit, due to their well-known friendship, and tag team partnership. However, this is rare.
Another exception can be found in certain international versions of the WWE Network. Due to different cultural sensitivities or licensing agreements, some regions may have access to content that is not available in the United States. While this is not a guarantee, it is worth noting that the availability of Benoit's matches may vary depending on your location. So, while finding Chris Benoit matches on the WWE Network is highly unlikely, there are a few rare exceptions where footage of him may appear. These instances are typically presented with context and disclaimers, and they may vary depending on your geographical location. Keep an eye out for documentaries and historical retrospectives, but be prepared for the possibility that Benoit's matches will remain largely absent from the WWE Network.
Alternative Ways to Watch
Since Chris Benoit matches are not readily available on the WWE Network, you might be wondering if there are other ways to watch them. While WWE has taken steps to remove him from their official programming, there are still alternative avenues for accessing his matches. Keep in mind that these methods may not be officially endorsed by WWE, and the availability of content can vary depending on copyright restrictions and other factors. One option is to explore online video platforms such as YouTube or DailyMotion. Many users have uploaded classic wrestling matches, including those featuring Chris Benoit. However, it's important to note that these uploads may be subject to copyright claims, and they may be taken down at any time. Additionally, the quality of these videos may vary, and they may not be complete or uncut versions of the matches.
Another option is to look for physical media such as DVDs or VHS tapes. Before WWE's decision to erase Benoit from their history, the company released several DVDs and VHS tapes featuring his matches. These physical copies may still be available for purchase online or at used media stores. However, keep in mind that these physical copies may be rare and expensive, especially if they are out of print. Always exercise caution when obtaining wrestling content from unofficial sources. Make sure to use reputable websites and be wary of scams or viruses. Some people also use torrent sites to find old wrestling matches. Using torrents can be risky. You might accidentally download a virus, or face legal trouble for downloading copyrighted material. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to seek out Chris Benoit's matches is a personal one. It's important to be aware of the context surrounding his career and the reasons why WWE has chosen to remove him from their official programming. If you do choose to watch his matches, do so with an understanding of the full story and the impact of his actions.
The Ethical Considerations
The absence of Chris Benoit's matches on the WWE Network is not just a matter of content availability; it also raises important ethical considerations. The decision to remove Benoit from WWE's history reflects a broader debate about how to handle the legacies of individuals who have committed heinous acts. On one hand, some argue that erasing Benoit from history is a form of censorship that denies fans the opportunity to appreciate his contributions to wrestling. They believe that his in-ring talent should be separated from his personal actions, and that fans should be able to make their own judgments about his legacy. The argument in favor of preserving Benoit's matches often centers on the idea that his actions, however horrific, do not negate his contributions to the sport. Supporters of this view contend that wrestling history should be comprehensive and inclusive, even when it includes controversial figures. They argue that fans have a right to access and evaluate Benoit's matches for themselves, without being shielded from the complexities of his legacy.
On the other hand, others argue that it is morally wrong to profit from or celebrate someone who committed such terrible crimes. They believe that WWE has a responsibility to protect its audience from content that could be seen as glorifying violence or minimizing the impact of domestic abuse. The argument against preserving Benoit's matches often focuses on the need to prioritize the well-being of the victims and their families. Opponents of his inclusion argue that showcasing his matches could be seen as disrespectful to the memory of his wife and son, and that it could potentially cause further pain and suffering. They also contend that WWE has a responsibility to promote positive values and role models, and that featuring Benoit would send the wrong message to its audience. Ultimately, the question of whether or not to include Chris Benoit in wrestling history is a complex one with no easy answers. It requires careful consideration of the ethical implications and a willingness to engage in difficult conversations about the relationship between art, morality, and personal responsibility.
Conclusion
So, to wrap it up, while Chris Benoit matches are largely absent from the WWE Network due to the circumstances surrounding his death, there are a few potential exceptions and alternative ways to watch his matches. However, it's important to be aware of the ethical considerations and the reasons why WWE has chosen to remove him from their official programming. Whether you choose to seek out his matches is a personal decision, but it's always best to do so with an understanding of the full story.