Each wrestler now has two fighting style categories, one primary and one secondary. Each fighting style has its advantages and disadvantages in each particular match type.[5] There are eight styles altogether: high-flyer, hardcore, submission, powerhouse, showman, brawler, dirty and technical.[5][6] In addition, creative manager of THQ Cory Ledesma said early in production that he planned on having numerous wrestler animations redone.[5]
A new "struggle submission system" has been introduced, incorporating more analog control into the game. The player executing the submission can now decide how much pressure is applied by moving the analog stick in a particular direction. Similarly, the player locked in a submission hold will have to power out also by using the analog stick.[5]