“I Got in a Lot of Trouble Over This”: Wayne Gretzky Revealed Last Year the Aftermath of Suggesting Ban on Fighting

Wayne Gretzky is arguably the greatest hockey player to put on a pair of skates. Besides breaking numerous records, the ice hockey legend also had the love and support of fans. A prolific goal scorer, the Canadian had incredible stamina and skill. Many hockey players rely on their physical strength to tackle and snatch the puck from their opponents. However, a contest of strength often results in fights breaking out midgame. Gretzky once suggested a ban on fighting but didn’t get the reception he had hoped.

Brantford, Ontario native didn’t have an intimidating physical presence on the ice and avoided confrontation, preferring to outplay opponents. Hence, he also realized the frequent fights that interrupted the game portrayed the sport he loved in a negative light. While appearing on a podcast in 2022, Gretzky revealed why he wanted to ban fighting.

Wayne Gretzky showed concern about the image of the sport

In April 2022, the hockey legend appeared on the Spitting Chiclets podcast. The NHL legend joined retired NHL players Ryan Whitney, Paul Bissonnette, Barstool Sports writer Rear Admiral and producer Mike Grinnell. “I got in a lot of trouble over this. I came out and said we should ban fighting.” Gretzky told the four hosts.

The highest goal scorer in NHL history revealed he wanted to change the public image of hockey. “We got to change the culture, or sort of what people think of our game,” the NHL legend recalled saying back in the day. According to Gretzky, “its an art” being a hockey player. “It’s an art to take a hit. It’s an art to get hit,” said the retired center forward.

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Gretzky explained the idea of banning fights came to mind after speaking to people who weren’t explicitly ice hockey fans. “If you ran into people in California or Texas or Florida at that point in time, they said, ‘Oh, I can’t go to a hockey game. It’s just all fighting and brawls.'”

The Great One and the art of hockey

While a striker and a defender often brush shoulders during a hockey game, Gretzky masterfully avoided the shoves and tackles that often led to fights on the ice. Instead, The Great One utilized precision and timing to open up space in the defensive line.

The hockey legend also showcased his game sense by using feints and faking slapshots to put defenders and goalkeepers out of position. While Gretzky wasn’t the faster skater on the ice, his pinpoint precision also helped him score goals or get assists.

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What’s your opinion on The Great One’s take on banning fights? Write your views in the comment section.