Yes, we know – WWE (or WWF if you’re old school) isn’t real.

Still, if you didn’t watch at least one Royal Rumble growing up, and then suplex and body slam your pillow furiously, I feel like you missed out.

The fact that it’s fake isn’t the dirty secret, though, because even the most redneck of rednecks knows they’re watching a carefully scripted performance.

Rather, John Oliver goes after chairman and CEO Vince McMahon, and how the organisation actually treats the wrestlers when the cameras aren’t rolling.

Here’s a taster via Hollywood Reporter:

McMahon has “shielded himself from responsibility for his wrestlers’ welfare” by keeping them as independent contractors — not full-time employees — while making them sign exclusive, long-term contracts that don’t allow them to work for any other organization. They also don’t qualify for annual paid leave, pensions or health insurance benefits.

You will still see some amusing footage from inside the ring, if that’s your thing:

[source:hollywoodreporter]