The Official TNA Discussion Thread

[LoganRodzen]

I'm assuming its "the brawl to end Impact" - if so the video is on the front page of TNA.com. Checking it out right now. :cool:

EDIT: I like to see the ring full of people brawling - so I enjoyed that part. They took the NXT invasion and turned it up a few notches by sending out road agents like Terry Taylor and D-Lo (cops were an interesting addition). I really can't say it was better because it was a bunch of guys who have already been around for a decade. The NXT invasion was unique due to the fact it was a bunch of unknowns.

[liontamer]

Awesome impact (the only one I can think of off the top of my head that was close was the one when they switched to mondays in March). Curious to see what the ratings are. First hour was interesting, not sure why they are prolonging Williams and Kendrick so long. I think the second hour should be pretty high though, possibly their best. The ending was sweet and very well done.

A little confused though on the 'invasion' angle they are doing. Not having read the spoilers yet, I'm not sure if this means that Dixie invited the ECW guys or that she invited another group and the TNA and ex-ECW guys are both against it and think the other side has something to do with it. And did the ecw guys play abyss for a fool, or is there yet another group on the way that has been talking to abyss?

TNA better advertise like he!! the next few weeks because now is the time to pull viewers in, especially coming off of last weeks show. Here's to hoping for a 1.5.

[Slagaholic]

I actually think Dixie "made" the ending.

Yup. It was logical and well done.

[GDE71]

Watching it again on tnawrestling.com

Taz said "This was the plan Mike. This thing was setup for weeks."

[LoganRodzen]

Am I the only one who never wanted to see Dixie have an on-air role? I could barely watch her segments with Sting.

[Slagaholic]

I don't think she'll be on TV often. But she is on TV next week. She's fine in the "aw shucks" owner role, but beyond that? Yeah...no.

[GDE71]

Am I the only one who never wanted to see Dixie have an on-air role? I could barely watch her segments with Sting.

I agree.

But tonight she made the ending. I will stick by that opinion.


I'm intrigued by what Taz said and wonder if it was a throw-away line or if it plays into this at all.

[Stennick]

I'm just not that interested in Raven, Stevie Richards, etc. This would have been awesome in 1996 but as someone said these guys are so far passed their prime and its not like we haven't seen all of these guys in TNA for most of the last 8 years so really its not like their "invading". With the nWo and to a lesser extend NXT these guys just showed up out of nowhere and had never been affialated with the shows before. This is kind of like when the Alliance started bringing in guys like Test. It waters everything down when you say "ok Team 3d, Raven, Stevie Richards, etc. I've been seeing these guys in TNA for the last five years or better".

Its an interesting concept but again its guys that are well into their 40's and are way beyond their peak. If people want Nash to stop wrestling I'd argue Nash has way more to offer at this point than these guys do atleast in this role.

That being said I'm sure some people will be interested and enjoy it. Its just not my cup of tea.

Wrestling right now just feels like its stuck on repeat. With all this talk of Russo, Bischoff, Heyman as the booker. These guys had their chances ten years ago, they succeeded and they failed. Give a new guy a shot. I want to hear about James Smith the hot young booker who's breathing life into some promotion.

I think TNA is the better show or was a month ago when I stopped watching. I think TNA embraces being pro wrestling and doesn't think of it as a dirty word. I liked a lot of the things they've been doing such as letting Jay Lethal be Jay Lethal, the top cotenders, Anderson's face turn, the pope, Fortune, etc. This may even be their best time period in the last five years and maybe ever as far as quality shows and consistency and what not.

TNA to me feels like their never comfortable with themselves. I just don't think they have their own identity. They don't know who they want to be. ECW was dead a year before this promotion even started. They can't use the name, they don't have any video library, and really the two promotions have no connection. They was never any "war" or any workers jumping between the two or talking badly about each other. They have no history together and I think thats why this makes my head scratch.

[LoganRodzen]

If people want Nash to stop wrestling I'd argue Nash has way more to offer at this point than these guys do atleast in this role.

I agree when people say Nash could be a great colour commentator. The guy has zero problems with putting guys over when it comes to interviews and audio appearances. I think that, plus his knowledge of wrestling would be perfect. I thought Taz was doing well in TNA for a while... until recently for some reason. He's better than Don West (thats for sure), but he's never really been a commentator I liked even in WWE.

TNA to me feels like their never comfortable with themselves. I just don't think they have their own identity. They don't know who they want to be. ECW was dead a year before this promotion even started. They can't use the name, they don't have any video library, and really the two promotions have no connection. They was never any "war" or any workers jumping between the two or talking badly about each other. They have no history together and I think thats why this makes my head scratch.

I agree with this completely. From what I've seen the past few months has been decent, but things seem random far too often. I guess with all wrestling you have to wait and see where it goes. The problem with THAT mentality is that if the end result is garbage... it was worthless and complaining is pointless.

[Moe Hunter]

While Sarita was choking Taylor with the purse Taz said "That kind of thing can get you fired in other companies".
Or get you life in jail in Boxing. Remember this was how Arturo Gatti was killed by his wife.

Nash has really changed since his WCW days.

Kevin Nash: "Some people say I'm the best worker in this business"

WHO THE **** SAYS THAT KEVIN? YOUR MAGIC MIRROR?
Kevin Nash is awesome. Not as a wrestler, but his character for the last few years in TNA. Laid back, always exaggerating his achievements and public opinion of himself. From way back with Alex Shelly, through the "PCS" skits with the whole X Division - developing their characters (plus all the Backlund jokes!)... Nash is one of the best comedians in all of wrestling.

[pate]

I'm glad Al Snow and Simon Diamond got into the attacking-non-ECW-guys act, and that it wasn't mentioned or specifically shown.

[masterded]

Kevin Nash is awesome. Not as a wrestler, but his character for the last few years in TNA. Laid back, always exaggerating his achievements and public opinion of himself. From way back with Alex Shelly, through the "PCS" skits with the whole X Division - developing their characters (plus all the Backlund jokes!)... Nash is one of the best comedians in all of wrestling.

I loved his skits with Shelly and think if he isn’t going to be a color commentator he needs to go back to a mentor role to a bunch of young guys.

I remember one of the sketches he talks about winning the WWF title an it was something like

Nash: “That day 50000 people where on their feet cheering as I won the title.”

Shelly: “Does Madison Square Garden even hold 50000 people?”

Nash: “It did that day.”

(Very badly paraphrased)

I miss the whole Shelly and Nash promo combo they just worked off each other so well.

[Moe Hunter]

Not badly paraphrased at all, you covered all the important ground on the joke. I also love his ratings chart in the background - as soon as he became champ, it skyrocketed :P

[TheEdgeOfReason]

Nash is hilarious. Whether he wrote that for himself or not.:D

[Hyde Hill]

I'm just not that interested in Raven, Stevie Richards, etc. This would have been awesome in 1996 but as someone said these guys are so far passed their prime and its not like we haven't seen all of these guys in TNA for most of the last 8 years so really its not like their "invading". With the nWo and to a lesser extend NXT these guys just showed up out of nowhere and had never been affialated with the shows before. This is kind of like when the Alliance started bringing in guys like Test. It waters everything down when you say "ok Team 3d, Raven, Stevie Richards, etc. I've been seeing these guys in TNA for the last five years or better".

Its an interesting concept but again its guys that are well into their 40's and are way beyond their peak. If people want Nash to stop wrestling I'd argue Nash has way more to offer at this point than these guys do atleast in this role.

That being said I'm sure some people will be interested and enjoy it. Its just not my cup of tea.

Wrestling right now just feels like its stuck on repeat. With all this talk of Russo, Bischoff, Heyman as the booker. These guys had their chances ten years ago, they succeeded and they failed. Give a new guy a shot. I want to hear about James Smith the hot young booker who's breathing life into some promotion.

I think TNA is the better show or was a month ago when I stopped watching. I think TNA embraces being pro wrestling and doesn't think of it as a dirty word. I liked a lot of the things they've been doing such as letting Jay Lethal be Jay Lethal, the top cotenders, Anderson's face turn, the pope, Fortune, etc. This may even be their best time period in the last five years and maybe ever as far as quality shows and consistency and what not.

TNA to me feels like their never comfortable with themselves. I just don't think they have their own identity. They don't know who they want to be. ECW was dead a year before this promotion even started. They can't use the name, they don't have any video library, and really the two promotions have no connection. They was never any "war" or any workers jumping between the two or talking badly about each other. They have no history together and I think thats why this makes my head scratch.

Yep Brand Identity is still something TNA is struggling with but atm they seem to be focusing all their attention on brand awareness and with the quality of the shows lately, if they keep them up and the stories have satisfying conclusions, said lack of identity does not have to be a problem. BTW Richards is a relatively new addition to TNA and Raven only returned full time recently. So its mainly Rhino and 3D, and to a lesser extent Pat Kenny, that can be equally or more identified with TNA.

Is Jerry Lynn's contract with ROH an exclusive one btw as he could fit in here well as well.

Also seems that TNA have finally learned that with wrestlers perceived as "legends" that less is more as they are rotating them in and out.

Nash and Jarrett talk but no Hogan and Bisch

Foley returns but Sting is suspended.

Ok now that it seems that the ECW guys are not Abyss's they/them who the hell is it? Hogan and Bisch and co? Which would mean they are the same they Sting was talking about.

Anyway looking forward to some multiple stable storylines.

[Hyde Hill]

On Nash as a colour guy, I liked him when he did it in WCW but his TNA stint with Booker T I personally did not like although what I have read a lot of other people did.

Still Nash has reportedly been smart with his money so once he quits he is probably really gone

[Hyde Hill]

1.09! Although it is down it does seem to be they are regaining their old size of audience.

[Slagaholic]

The biggest factor is if they kept an audience throughout the show. Not 1.4 the first our and .7 the second.

[20LEgend]

Tenay and Taz actually said 'ECW' didn't they? Are they aloud to use the actual 'ECW' even if it is just a comment?

[GDE71]

Last week was a 1.14 with 1,450,000
This week was a 1.09 with 1,436,000


So while they were down 0.05 it was only 14,000 people.

[Stennick]

Sure they can say whatever they want as a comment as long as the faction is called that or even alluded to as that. They can say ECW, WCW, even WWE. Heck didn't they call out Vince McMahon and other guys on the show.

Bischoff used to give away entire shows on the air so they can say the name they just can't USE the name if that make sense.

[nucleardonkey]

Yea it's basically like when Kurt Angle was screwed a few months ago and spit on Hogan then yelled "I'll go back to WWE if you pull this ****!" They can say whatever they want as long as they in no way profit off it. So while on TV they are called former ECW stars on all the press info and advertising for the PPV and iMpact they are referred to as "Hardcore superstars" last I checked.

[Stennick]

You got it. As long as their faction isn't ECW, as long as there are no ECW shirts made or anything of that nature their fine. Sure its silly to say "ECW this ECW that" and then when it comes time to talk about their faction their like "we're the hardcore superstars". But then again the entire angle is silly imo. Getting back on track though as long as they can't be perceived as profiting off of it their legally ok. That being said you know Vince's lawyers are combing the show to make sure there isn't anything out of line. He might not care about TNA but he cares about anything he owns being used for profit by anybody else.

[crownsy]

Last week was a 1.14 with 1,450,000
This week was a 1.09 with 1,436,000


So while they were down 0.05 it was only 14,000 people.


careful with that premise if you want to trumpet the 1.14 as a huge accomplishment.

Following the logic back, the difference between the meh 1.0 and the WOOOO!! 1.4 is a whopping 30,000 people or so.

I'm hoping TNA is on an upswing so WWE will step it's game up to counter instead of staying hte course, but so far i'm not seeing much evidence of that.

They need to hold there ratings and improve over time, not struggle to return to the 1.1 they were pulling last year before the absolutely atrocious monday night experiment.

[crownsy]

I'm assuming its "the brawl to end Impact" - if so the video is on the front page of TNA.com. Checking it out right now. :cool:

EDIT: I like to see the ring full of people brawling - so I enjoyed that part. They took the NXT invasion and turned it up a few notches by sending out road agents like Terry Taylor and D-Lo (cops were an interesting addition). I really can't say it was better because it was a bunch of guys who have already been around for a decade. The NXT invasion was unique due to the fact it was a bunch of unknowns.


It wasn't Unique to TNA, never mind wrestling. That was a cool angle when they did it a year and a half ago with the MEM and World Elite joining forces and having an all out riot in the impact zone.

I still remember Bubba Ray slamming Terry through a concession stand and going after him with a garbage can, was a fun night.

Last night just looked like a rehash of that pretty much, only with more focus on the ring. Some of the rent a cops actually looked familer. Ah well, hopefully it will lead to more than that sad angle did. They did that whole build up, gave the MEM all the titles a month later, then blew it up and started from scrath a month later.

[Hyde Hill]

careful with that premise if you want to trumpet the 1.14 as a huge accomplishment.

Following the logic back, the difference between the meh 1.0 and the WOOOO!! 1.4 is a whopping 30,000 people or so.

I'm hoping TNA is on an upswing so WWE will step it's game up to counter instead of staying hte course, but so far i'm not seeing much evidence of that.

They need to hold there ratings and improve over time, not struggle to return to the 1.1 they were pulling last year before the absolutely atrocious monday night experiment.

Ehm if 0.05 = 14k then 0.4 the difference would be 8 times 14k which comes out at 112k people not 30k.

[Slagaholic]

Possible Hard Justice Spoiler: TNA is trying to make RVD vs Jerry Lynn happen one last time

[Hyde Hill]

On the possible spoiler: Lol seems I am prophetic still isn't Abyss vs RVD a lot more logical.

[eayragt]

It's not a Hard Justice spoiler. Not if they want the Main Event to actually sell the PPV. Sometime in the future, not as the Main Event, perhaps.

[Slagaholic]

If I'm TNA I say **** buyrates. They aren't going to be going up any time soon. Just try to put on entertaining main events.

[eayragt]

If I'm TNA I say **** buyrates. They aren't going to be going up any time soon. Just try to put on entertaining main events.

But... the wrestling industry is all about selling PPV's. Not good wrestling. Not a hardcore fanbase. Not TV viewers. All of them feed into the real fundemental target - buyrates.

[Stennick]

I agree but TNA has a different set up. Spike PAYS them for their television shows. They would make it more profitable for them to run television specials than it would to pay for a live pay per view broadcast thats not being bought anyway.

[BHK1978]

But... the wrestling industry is all about selling PPV's. Not good wrestling. Not a hardcore fanbase. Not TV viewers. All of them feed into the real fundemental target - buyrates.

Maybe if they put on a better TV show people would be more apt to buy their PPV's.

However, what you is saying is right as well because that is where TNA make their money because they do not charge to get into their TV events. Therefore, PPV buyrates and Merch are where they need to make their money.

[eayragt]

I agree but TNA has a different set up. Spike PAYS them for their television shows. They would make it more profitable for them to run television specials than it would to pay for a live pay per view broadcast thats not being bought anyway.

TNA have got it got with two wealthy backers - the owners and the Network. If either of them were to go they might just survive.

Of course, put on significantly profitable PPV's and you can survive on your own merit. I like that business model.

[Slagaholic]

TNA have got it got with two wealthy backers - the owners and the Network. If either of them were to go they might just survive.

Of course, put on significantly profitable PPV's and you can survive on your own merit. I like that business model.

Except if either of them leave how do you expect to let people know when your PPVs are?

TNA doesn't need PPVs. The idea that wrestling is a business that needs PPV to succeed is not true.

Maybe if they put on a better TV show people would be more apt to buy their PPV's.

However, what you is saying is right as well because that is where TNA make their money because they do not charge to get into their TV events. Therefore, PPV buyrates and Merch are where they need to make their money.

TNA get most of their money from SpikeTV, Merch, and International deals. Not PPV.

[Stennick]

TNA have got it got with two wealthy backers - the owners and the Network. If either of them were to go they might just survive.

Of course, put on significantly profitable PPV's and you can survive on your own merit. I like that business model.

If the owner of TNA decides to leave then TNA is no more. Jeff Jarrett is going to pick up the 80 percent or whatever it is that Dixie owns? Fact is if Panda goes so does TNA. There is no business model out there to protect you from your owner pulling the plug on the business. Thats like saying my business that I own needs a better business model so if I decide to leave it can still exist.

As far as Spike, if they pull out their screwed anyway. How would you let people know when your ppv's are? Why would you pay for pay per views when you don't even have a television to promote the pay per views? Its not like people are beating at the door to take on TNA programming to where as the WWE has at this time three separate media umbrella's broadcasting television shows.

I like the business model of making money now and growing a fan base rather than losing money on pay per view every year. Without an owner for your business and without a television product to push your media oriented business you don't have a business no matter what model you come up with.

[Basmat01]

I agree but TNA has a different set up. Spike PAYS them for their television shows. They would make it more profitable for them to run television specials than it would to pay for a live pay per view broadcast thats not being bought anyway.

it would still end up being cheaper for Spike to pay TNA for two hours of TV a week then have to pay for two one hour tv shows

[Hyde Hill]

it would still end up being cheaper for Spike to pay TNA for two hours of TV a week then have to pay for two one hour tv shows

Huh? That was not being discussed at all. The discussion is if at this time it is preferable for TNA to switch to more television specials ala clash of champions/Saturday Night Main Event or stick with 12 ppv's. And yeah ppv's are not a large part of TNA's income at this moment nor will they be in the near future. The notion that you have to be fully ppv focused is an antiquated one. Even the E gets more or near the same out of their television rights deals at this time.

Anyway on the ECW stuff I am kind of ambiguous I like the idea behind the storyline and am curious about the execution. But once we get to the stage of matches I do not see many good ones coming of it especially if they are not Hardcore. Plus I would not like to see any TNA talent lose these matches, which would lessen the effect of the storyline if the TNA talent always win.

And in the long-term apart from RVD and to a lesser extent Dreamer and Rhino I do not see anyone in the ECW camp who can actually give a rub unless they feud with the under-card.

[LoganRodzen]

And in the long-term apart from RVD and to a lesser extent Dreamer and Rhino I do not see anyone in the ECW camp who can actually give a rub unless they feud with the under-card.

Richards wouldn't really be able to help anyone popularity wise, but the guy is a really good worker whose dedicated. He could make a lot of TNA guys look good in terms of selling. I just don't like the idea that Hard Justice is going to be an all-ECW type of PPV. They're trying to build a brand for themselves, but now they bring in these guys who they can only get so much out of until it's dead.

They need to focus on themselves and not try to go after viewers that are more or less already watching TNA.

[Hyde Hill]

Richards wouldn't really be able to help anyone popularity wise, but the guy is a really good worker whose dedicated. He could make a lot of TNA guys look good in terms of selling. I just don't like the idea that Hard Justice is going to be an all-ECW type of PPV. They're trying to build a brand for themselves, but now they bring in these guys who they can only get so much out of until it's dead.

They need to focus on themselves and not try to go after viewers that are more or less already watching TNA.

Yeah but that is/are one/some the big question(s) eh. Who is watching and /or spending money on TNA and why, who is not watching/spending money on TNA and why not and what could make them watch it/spend money, who is not aware of TNA and what would make them aware and what would make them watch it/spend money?

Reportedly the results of the survey TNA did suggested that the ECW brand still had value and fans that where not watching might be persuaded to watch TNA if something was done with said brand.

[PeterHilton]

I'm stunned people still don't get that TV is more important to TNA than PPV is.

[Stennick]

People have been trained by the WWE for 25+ years now to think of pro wrestling and pay per view as the same unit.

If anything if TNA ran these "specials" for FREE the same night as a WWE ppv it might actually help draw in a new audience.

[Slagaholic]

If TNA ran a TV special head to head with an inferior WWE PPV card it would be a huge help. It would also be a way maximize the name value for all of their former WWE talent.

[PeterHilton]

People have been trained by the WWE for 25+ years now to think of pro wrestling and pay per view as the same unit.

If anything if TNA ran these "specials" for FREE the same night as a WWE ppv it might actually help draw in a new audience.

If TNA ran a TV special head to head with an inferior WWE PPV card it would be a huge help. It would also be a way maximize the name value for all of their former WWE talent.

Totally agree. I "discovered" WCW when I was 10 or so and they ran the first Clash of Champions the same day as WWF's Summerslam. I was so blown away by the noticeably more intense ring work that I made it a point to follow them after that.

[sheepy]

Don't know if this is being mentioned but apparently Tommy Dreamer has been given free reigns to put together the Hard Justice ppv.

It'll probably be a flop due to most of the ECW guys being over the hill now but this is definately the kind of move I want to see. No idea if he's got what it takes as a booker but its good to see a new face being given the chance to run the show.

Hope this may be the start of something with Bischoff and Hogan still in charge in the background but getting new creative ideas from new sources.

[TheEdgeOfReason]

Don't know if this is being mentioned but apparently Tommy Dreamer has been given free reigns to put together the Hard Justice ppv.

It'll probably be a flop due to most of the ECW guys being over the hill now but this is definately the kind of move I want to see. No idea if he's got what it takes as a booker but its good to see a new face being given the chance to run the show.

Hope this may be the start of something with Bischoff and Hogan still in charge in the background but getting new creative ideas from new sources.

Interesting. Is this just as it pertains to that angle or the entire show? Hopefully he gets its in the build up too, wouldn't make sense for it to be a one night thing.

[sheepy]

Interesting. Is this just as it pertains to that angle or the entire show? Hopefully he gets its in the build up too, wouldn't make sense for it to be a one night thing.

Entire show from the sounds of it. Wouldn't be suprised if Hard Justice gets 50% of Impact dedicated to building to it with the other 50% being used to build to the next PPV. That way they can keep the TNA fans sweet with not becoming all ECW this, that etc but also allows them to build to the PPV.

Hopefully they'll also use the event to re-ignite a couple of already played out feuds (Samoa Joe vs. Kurt Angle in an anything goes match, could be fun to see those two go at it again and this could be the event to get them in the ring again without making it seem like their old feud)

[Stennick]

Here what f4wonline.com had to say about TNA's recent ppv buys as well as how many illegal ppv watchers were out there.

It is believed that TNA Wrestling's May and June pay-per-view events, Sacrifice and Slammiversary, drew approximately 8,000 buys apiece. The gross sum per event would total to approximately $111,000 for the company, though that is before the expense of running a live pay-per-view event is factored in.

By comparison, TNA drew in the neighborhood of 25,000 to 30,000 pay-per-view buys when iMPACT! was airing at 11 p.m. on Saturday nights. And when World Championship Wrestling was on its death bed, the company was still garnering approximately 40,000 buys per pay-per-view.

To draw another comparison, illegal live streams of TNA Wrestling pay-per-view events are nowhere near as popular as that of World Wrestling Entertainment and UFC. According to a source in monitoring, there are usually thirty to fifty unique live streams for wrestling pay-per-view events with an average of 1,000 viewers per stream prior to its termination. For last week's Victory Road pay-per-view, there were only five streams across the major live streaming sites — Justin.tv, Ustream.tv and freedocast.com. Victory Road garnered less than 1,500 viewers per stream. Meanwhile, live streams for WWE events are in the triple digits with most averaging 60,000 viewers, and UFC events tend to have live viewers in excess of 200,000.

If their biggest even of the year is only drawing in 8,000 buys then I think it really is time for them to find another revenue stream. If their only getting 8,000 buys and their pulling a million viewers a week isn't that less than one percent of their audience buying their ppv's? To where as even a poor WWE ppv does what five percent? Around 200,000 buys and around 4 million (on a great week) viewers.

[Slagaholic]

Proof positive that TNA needs to stop running monthly PPVs. 4 PPVs a year Genesis, Lockdown, Slammiversary, and Bound For Glory. Try to convince SpikeTV to allow them to run 8 monthly specials in place of PPVs. Hell if TNA dropped PPVs altogether and went with just specials on Spike they'd be far better off.

The pro wrestling market has changed since a lot the attitude era. There is now stiff competition every single month on pay-per-view with UFC and the occasional boxing PPV. Wrestling is tailor made for TV, the goal for any company nowadays really should be to get a deal similar to what TNA has with SpikeTV who not only give them a prime time slot but pay them a whole lot of money for the honor.

When you're the 3rd (and sometimes 4th) choice for PPV buyers in a recession you can't be shocked at poor buy rates. What do you do then? Well you give the fans PPVs for free.

[Hyde Hill]

If it is true, the non stream part, then yeah. Thing is with the streams they cannot check from witch country people are watching etc. China for example where the E is active and TNA is not yet.

[Slagaholic]

Doesn't China get the PPVs for free? Or is that only Europe?

[mystic]

watching the video of the brawl again, I thought it was a little funny that they mention the "ECW 4" when refering to Dreamer, Rhino, Richards, and Raven.

lets all forget that Raven, Rhino and Richards all wrestled for TNA within the last year

[LoganRodzen]

I had a feeling that the under 10,000 PPV buys was a pretty legit number. If I was TNA I'd be crying when those numbers came in. They have 1.4 million people watching their TV show and they're not even getting 1% of their audience to purchase the PPVs. That's a pretty big red flag wouldn't you say?

[Slagaholic]

watching the video of the brawl again, I thought it was a little funny that they mention the "ECW 4" when refering to Dreamer, Rhino, Richards, and Raven.

lets all forget that Raven, Rhino and Richards all wrestled for TNA within the last year

They hadn't been on TV in months and all of those guys are most well known because of their work in ECW.

[crownsy]

I had a feeling that the under 10,000 PPV buys was a pretty legit number. If I was TNA I'd be crying when those numbers came in. They have 1.4 million people watching their TV show and they're not even getting 1% of their audience to purchase the PPVs. That's a pretty big red flag wouldn't you say?

I'd say so, if i were them i'd go with Slag's plan.

8 Free events a year running against WWE programming, 4 PPV's to make it more likely that hardcore fans will treat them like I do SS and WM (I.E actually purchase them because they aren't saturating the market and the PPV's are important.)

[PeterHilton]

Proof positive that TNA needs to stop running monthly PPVs. 4 PPVs a year Genesis, Lockdown, Slammiversary, and Bound For Glory. Try to convince SpikeTV to allow them to run 8 monthly specials in place of PPVs. Hell if TNA dropped PPVs altogether and went with just specials on Spike they'd be far better off.

The pro wrestling market has changed since a lot the attitude era. There is now stiff competition every single month on pay-per-view with UFC and the occasional boxing PPV. Wrestling is tailor made for TV, the goal for any company nowadays really should be to get a deal similar to what TNA has with SpikeTV who not only give them a prime time slot but pay them a whole lot of money for the honor.

When you're the 3rd (and sometimes 4th) choice for PPV buyers in a recession you can't be shocked at poor buy rates. What do you do then? Well you give the fans PPVs for free.

Totally agree with this.

If they aren't your primary source of income, and the PPVs are this bad from a buyrate perspective, then just put your best matches out there for free and trust that the longterm benefit of gaining new fans will pay off eventually.

[BHK1978]

Proof positive that TNA needs to stop running monthly PPVs. 4 PPVs a year Genesis, Lockdown, Slammiversary, and Bound For Glory. Try to convince SpikeTV to allow them to run 8 monthly specials in place of PPVs. Hell if TNA dropped PPVs altogether and went with just specials on Spike they'd be far better off.

The pro wrestling market has changed since a lot the attitude era. There is now stiff competition every single month on pay-per-view with UFC and the occasional boxing PPV. Wrestling is tailor made for TV, the goal for any company nowadays really should be to get a deal similar to what TNA has with SpikeTV who not only give them a prime time slot but pay them a whole lot of money for the honor.

When you're the 3rd (and sometimes 4th) choice for PPV buyers in a recession you can't be shocked at poor buy rates. What do you do then? Well you give the fans PPVs for free.

Very valid points, I would not mind them cutting down to four PPV's a year (maybe then I would actually buy one). And I love the idea of the specials, reminds me very much of the old Clash of the Champions.

[The Final Countdown]

Totally agree with this.

If they aren't your primary source of income, and the PPVs are this bad from a buyrate perspective, then just put your best matches out there for free and trust that the longterm benefit of gaining new fans will pay off eventually.
Absolutely. I knew their buyrates were bad, but if they are really as bad as reported, I think altering their schedule is the best way to go for the moment.

[Hyde Hill]

Yep but as of now they have to fur fill their contracts to the ppv providers and I have no info when those run out. So until that time it is kind of a moot point. Hmmm I think I have said this before lolz.

And yes Rhino and Raven and Richards have been on TNA television and as pointed out have been off of it lately but it is also by associations and actions. They are presenting themselves as being apart of TNA atm and they have a strong past with ECW so it is logical enough.

[TracyBrooksFan]

Liking the Knockouts way better then diva stuff. WOW at Dixie yelling at the agents LOL

[The Final Countdown]

...why is Bubba wearing an LAX shirt? :confused:

[Ladas18]

How good do you guys think the confirmed match between Lynn and RVD at Hard Justice will be? I'm honestly not too pumped for it and feel it may potentially fall flat.

[The Celt]

I don't care what any smark says; when Dixie Carter confirmed to the crowd that the ECW guys would get to do one last PPV, that crowd POP'd.

[jwt13]

does anyone know were I can watch youshoots on line for free?

[The Final Countdown]

I didn't really care about the ECW thing at first, but Dreamer's interview piqued my interest. That felt like a real, from-the-heart moment.

[sebsplex]

I didn't really care about the ECW thing at first, but Dreamer's interview piqued my interest. That felt like a real, from-the-heart moment.

Same really. Now that the angle and Hard Justice are being sold as a send-off for 'extreme' wrestling (booked by Dreamer by all accounts), I'm more invested in it than some sort of hardcore invasion storyline. Sure many of the wrestlers involved are far removed from their best days, but as a one off emotionally charged final show, I'm in.

[justtxyank]

I have quit watching wrestling all together, but got word of this special. Read about it a little and will definitely order now. I am glad they are doing it. It wasn't specifically stated, but for me this will be redemption in a way. I'm glad that my last memory of ECW won't be some stupid WWE piece of crap.

[SaySo]

Would this TNA-produced PPV have clips of the moments of the past of the original ECW? And could they sell PPVs when WWE money maker Jeff Hardy hasn't brought in increased viewers on Thursday or Monday night for that matter. And it appears their buy rates the last two PPVs with RVD as a champion is mind boggling.

[Genadi]

I don't care what any smark says; when Dixie Carter confirmed to the crowd that the ECW guys would get to do one last PPV, that crowd POP'd.

Hehe, you do realise the irony in that no?

[Genadi]

Would this TNA-produced PPV have clips of the moments of the past of the original ECW? And could they sell PPVs when WWE money maker Jeff Hardy hasn't brought in increased viewers on Thursday or Monday night for that matter. And it appears their buy rates the last two PPVs with RVD as a champion is mind boggling.

You know this got me thinking, I do alot of workshops in business as part of my job. We often talk about "moving product from shelf" or "pull through". We tell our sales team that their job is to sell in the product and secure a good position on shelf. I convert that to wrestling and TNA's sales team have done a great job. They've signed all of these good well known brands (workers) and secured them on a platform everyone can access and see (their TV deal). Now in our business we say that if all of those things are done and the product still isn't selling it's usually for one reason.... marketing! The marketing team need to build that campaign and create excitement and awarness. Otherwise all of those previous things I mentioned are a waste, TNA could have all the stars in the World and even get a better TV deal but they will not see a turn around until their marketing department get a clue. Granted, the booking doesn't help :p

[PeterHilton]

Would this TNA-produced PPV have clips of the moments of the past of the original ECW? And could they sell PPVs when WWE money maker Jeff Hardy hasn't brought in increased viewers on Thursday or Monday night for that matter. And it appears their buy rates the last two PPVs with RVD as a champion is mind boggling.

FFS...I'm starting to get tired of the buyrates thing in this thread.

And no..they can't use any old ECW clips as the WWE owns them all.

Granted, the booking doesn't help :p

The booking has been pretty damn good for like 3 months now.

[BurningHamster]

...why is Bubba wearing an LAX shirt? :confused:

... why are any of the things that ever happen on TNA happening? :confused:

I'm serious, I recently took my latest look at TNA which I do maybe every 3-6months just to make sure it hasn't gotten awesome when I wasn't paying attention and I just didn't know what the point of anything was.

[LoganRodzen]

FFS...I'm starting to get tired of the buyrates thing in this thread.

Why? Even though the numbers aren't from TNA themselves its worth talking about. If its even close to what's being reported then they're still not even getting 1% of the weekly viewing audience to purchase the monthly show. Why should that be ignored in a thread specifically made for discussion on all things TNA?

[crownsy]

I don't care what any smark says; when Dixie Carter confirmed to the crowd that the ECW guys would get to do one last PPV, that crowd POP'd.


It's there own private arena at an amusement park, That crowd pop's huge for everything.

there told when to pop. I went once, and they tell you to be as loud and rowdy as possible for your free tickets while your there, which I was super on board with because im getting the privilege of seeing some high level wrestling entertainment for free.

It's a free wrestling show at an amusement park, and it's an awesome time. I had an absolute blast. But i was more happy to be seeing a wrestling event for free as a break from the lines for the other rides i'd been in all vacation than really interested in what ever guy i was being told to mark out for at the time.

Just saying, the impact zone's reaction is not exactly something you can make a judgment on. They pop'd huge for the NwO reunion to, and look how well that went.

I hope this angle goes well, because I'm an ECW fan, but i don't think the impact zone's reaction will be the indicator of it's success or failure. It all comes down to There TV ratings.

[crownsy]

FFS...I'm starting to get tired of the buyrates thing in this thread.

And no..they can't use any old ECW clips as the WWE owns them all.



The booking has been pretty damn good for like 3 months now.


If you say so Pete. WWE has been just as bad, but i don't recall them Ending a show with a striptease angle or doing a Falsely accused of rape leading to "owning" the Women for a month because she "deserved it for crying wolf" angle in the last 3 months.

Pretty much the only booking I've liked is RVD's title run and some of the Tag team fueds. Oh, and Jay lethal, because he's GOLD :D

[PeterHilton]

Why? Even though the numbers aren't from TNA themselves its worth talking about. If its even close to what's being reported then they're still not even getting 1% of the weekly viewing audience to purchase the monthly show. Why should that be ignored in a thread specifically made for discussion on all things TNA?

Because it's benn pointed out multiple times that TNA doesn't rely on buyrates at all, so even though that numbers are atrocious, it's not hurting them. It basically doesn't matter if the ECW guys bring in buys...

Honestly, the smar things would be to push this ECW angle fo hardcore specific special edition of Impact since TV is where their audience is.

[PeterHilton]

If you say so Pete. WWE has been just as bad, but i don't recall them Ending a show with a striptease angle or doing a Falsely accused of rape leading to "owning" the Women for a month because she "deserved it for crying wolf" angle in the last 3 months.

Pretty much the only booking I've liked is RVD's title run and some of the Tag team fueds. Oh, and Jay lethal, because he's GOLD :D

"Good" meaning it hasn't been Vas bad as the stuff directly after Hogan and Bischoff took over.

[Eisen-verse]

As wrestling fans, We're always going to tear apart what we don't like more so than hype the things that we do. With a weekly TV show, It's going to be tough to keep things interesting for everyone (as people of all ages, and smark levels will be watching). With that said, This is my perception of TNA right now (in small bullets):


1) I can't stand Beer Money. Yes, I know, they are suppose to be one of the top 'company made' teams on the roster but they just seem blah to me; maybe it's the name? I guess I'm just not a huge fan.

2) The ECW reunion thing is.... meh. Not terrible but not amazing I guess. What do you expect though, really? I loved ECW; more so than any other company at the time. With that said, ECW has been gone for quite some time now. It's best to move on and focus on developing a new tone than jumping on an old one.

3) I don't see why Samoa Joe isn't getting more focus? He seems to have been pushed aside alittle lately.

4) RVD as Champ is pretty cool; as I've always been a fan of his. It makes for some great matches down the line (ie: ones we haven't seen before, or, for awhile).

5) Jay Lethal is great. I'm excited to see where he goes from here.

6) I wish Desmond Wolfe was booked differently. How so? I wish he was more like the 'Stric Lee Bizness' character I created in my XWA project. In a sense, more of a 'contract killer' type that's quiet, cold, and calculating versus a whiny baby. ha.

[LoganRodzen]

Honestly, the smar things would be to push this ECW angle fo hardcore specific special edition of Impact since TV is where their audience is.

I completely agree with this, Peter. A special 3-hour Impact for an ECW reunion would have been cool and they wouldn't need to "throw away" an entire PPV on something that'll be done in a month. It's just disappointing that they're focusing on an ECW PPV when they should be trying to continue to build the TNA fan base. You can't build a brand with TNA wrestlers if you're jumping all over the place with stories involving guys people cared about 10 years ago.

Will any TNA workers have matches on the Hardcore Justice PPV or is it really ECW-only? That's what I'm pissed off about.

[Slagaholic]

... why are any of the things that ever happen on TNA happening? :confused:

I'm serious, I recently took my latest look at TNA which I do maybe every 3-6months just to make sure it hasn't gotten awesome when I wasn't paying attention and I just didn't know what the point of anything was.

If you look at a weekly TV show with an evolving storyline for the first time in 3-6 months and expect it to blow your mind, you will always be confused and disappointed.

[The Final Countdown]

Will any TNA workers have matches on the Hardcore Justice PPV or is it really ECW-only? That's what I'm pissed off about.
That's an interesting question. I wouldn't mind seeing guys who never were in ECW, but would have fit in fine, used on the show (the Machine Guns, for example, would have thrived in ECW IMO.)

[eayragt]

Because it's benn pointed out multiple times that TNA doesn't rely on buyrates at all, so even though that numbers are atrocious, it's not hurting them. It basically doesn't matter if the ECW guys bring in buys...

Honestly, the smar things would be to push this ECW angle fo hardcore specific special edition of Impact since TV is where their audience is.

Hang on, that seems to suggest that we shouldn't discuss things that don't hurt TNA (like the lack of buys), yes?

By that same basis, we shouldn't be talking about any bad booking on WWE shows, because that doesn't hurt WWE (they still keep chugging away strongly).

Man, these threads are going to die out soon.

[Slagaholic]

What's the point of talking about them if they don't matter? Your Comparison of buyrates and poor booking is idiotic. Booking is part of creative, creative is key. How you make your money doesn't matter as long as it's done legally and ethically.

John Cena's arm bands recently went from 25% polyester to 35% polyester. That will cause a bit more irritation on people who have very sensitive skin. I for one believe that if WWE went back to the 25% polyesZzzzzz....

[LoganRodzen]

What's the point of talking about them if they don't matter? Your Comparison of buyrates and poor booking is idiotic. Booking is part of creative, creative is key. How you make your money doesn't matter as long as it's done legally and ethically.

OK. So if (keyword) they ever reach 50k+ buys lets not talk about that either (still not close to WWE). Nobody talks about WWE buys because everybody knows on average how they do for their OK PPVs and then the big ones. When TNA doesn't release any type of information (not that they have to) it leaves many questions to be answered. This is a forum to discuss TNA and therefore I think it's fair game to talk about the massive PPV problem they have.

[PeterHilton]

Hang on, that seems to suggest that we shouldn't discuss things that don't hurt TNA (like the lack of buys), yes?



OK. So if (keyword) they ever reach 50k+ buys lets not talk about that either (still not close to WWE). Nobody talks about WWE buys because everybody knows on average how they do for their OK PPVs and then the big ones. When TNA doesn't release any type of information (not that they have to) it leaves many questions to be answered. This is a forum to discuss TNA and therefore I think it's fair game to talk about the massive PPV problem they have.

You guys are misunderstanding what I was saying..or I wasn't being clear:

The problem i have is that people keep talking about the brutally low buy rates AS IF IT IS A HUGE PROBLEM.

Or more commonly as if it's another sign the TNA is doomed or whatever.

Talk about the low buys all you want, but the fact is, TNA doesn't depend on the PPVs, they get most of their revenue from TV, the low buy rates don't generally hurt them, high buy rates would only be 'icing on the cake,' and continuing to say things like it's a MASSIVE PROBLEM means you haven't been paying attention to the things that people have poste and quoted in this thread.

Yes, yes, yes...it'd be great for them if TNA got massive PPV numbers. But fortunately their structure is such that it's not a life or death thing and the more constructive conversation would be what they can do otherwise since the numbers don't seme to be going up.

[LoganRodzen]

You guys are misunderstanding what I was saying..or I wasn't being clear:

The problem i have is that people keep talking about the brutally low buy rates AS IF IT IS A HUGE PROBLEM.

Or more commonly as if it's another sign the TNA is doomed or whatever.

Talk about the low buys all you want, but the fact is, TNA doesn't depend on the PPVs, they get most of their revenue from TV, the low buy rates don't generally hurt them, high buy rates would only be 'icing on the cake,' and continuing to say things like it's a MASSIVE PROBLEM means you haven't been paying attention to the things that people have poste and quoted in this thread.

Yes, yes, yes...it'd be great for them if TNA got massive PPV numbers. But fortunately their structure is such that it's not a life or death thing and the more constructive conversation would be what they can do otherwise since the numbers don't seme to be going up.

I think it's a massive problem because they present their PPVs like its some awesome blow-out to a huge arc of episodes on TV. They try to go all out on PPV and present a good product, but to what audience? I don't care that their primary revenue doesn't come from PPV buys - I never disputed any of that. I just think its a problem when you've been working towards a big show and to have 1% of your audience care about it? It means you aren't relevant and nobody cares.

It's a problem that goes beyond PPVs.

[jwt13]

I think we need a new topic because the ppv buyrates really dont matter I mean they dont hurt TNA so it really isnt a huge problem, TNA is promoteing PPV's big because imo WWE has made it what a national size company does no. TNA's buyrate has nothing to do with booking because if you have watched in the last two/three months they have been 100X better than when Hogan\Bisch came in. Lets start discussing who you think the "They" are that Abyss is talking about?

[SaySo]

How much does TNA make from TV? Did they gain more money by acquiring the big marquee names (e.g. RVD, Jeff Hardy, Hogan, Flair, etc.)?

[Hyde Hill]

... why are any of the things that ever happen on TNA happening? :confused:

I'm serious, I recently took my latest look at TNA which I do maybe every 3-6months just to make sure it hasn't gotten awesome when I wasn't paying attention and I just didn't know what the point of anything was.

Ehm if you just watch a single or maybe two shows you never will as TNA for better or worse doesn't do the endless rerun stuff. And seriously the booking has been very good. Only small opersonal gripes left for me rather then general ones.

[jwt13]

How much does TNA make from TV? Did they gain more money by acquiring the big marquee names (e.g. RVD, Jeff Hardy, Hogan, Flair, etc.)?

Spike pays them to have Impact on Spike, dont know how that works but thats what they do.

[Hyde Hill]

Why? Even though the numbers aren't from TNA themselves its worth talking about. If its even close to what's being reported then they're still not even getting 1% of the weekly viewing audience to purchase the monthly show. Why should that be ignored in a thread specifically made for discussion on all things TNA?

Because it has been discussed to death multiple times already.

[Hyde Hill]

How much does TNA make from TV? Did they gain more money by acquiring the big marquee names (e.g. RVD, Jeff Hardy, Hogan, Flair, etc.)?

Not from Spike directly, although possibely they pay part of the wages, but having those names onboard good possibely been a factor in signing the new Middle East deal which is pure money. Those same names are also the top merchandise sellers.

And according the the reports I have heard and trust all numbers, including ppv, are up. As much up as TNA had hoped? Nope. Are they back in the red? Maybe, and even if they are they have a big safety net. After the move back to Thursday/ post sacrifice the booking has been good and we have been seeing good matches on Impact. This is probabely the best I have seen TNA in a long time so lets enjoy it.

[Slagaholic]

Lets start discussing who you think the "They" are that Abyss is talking about?

I am of the opinion that it has to do with Sting's recent weirdness. I have an idea of the direction I'd take it but it would never happen in a million years.

[BurningHamster]

If you look at a weekly TV show with an evolving storyline for the first time in 3-6 months and expect it to blow your mind, you will always be confused and disappointed.

That may be true, but in TNA's case probably not as confused as disappointed as I would be if I watched it regularly.

[Slagaholic]

It's easy to say that about a show you don't watch. Try watching it without nitpicking it to death.

[Stennick]

Impact is better than RAW right now.

[Hitman23]

Impact is better than RAW right now.
Agreed and has been for the last month or two.

[Stennick]

I'd say they were neck and neck about two months ago during the Nexus debut, things truly felt different for about three weeks or so of the Nexus stuff. Then again Impact has lost a few points for the ECW stuff since it interests me less than zero percent. Its still close but if TNA finally gets this ECW stuff out of their system at Hard Justice and focuses on more interesting things like Fortune, "They", Lethal, Wolfe, etc. I'll be very happy.

Raven is by FAR my favorite ECW "icon". Sabu, Sandman, Dreamer all did nothing for me. Taz was ok but the minute he got truly big he left, RVD was pretty good but really the guy has never been that great on the mic. I've enjoyed his matches but I enjoy Rey Mysterio matches just as much and he's not a favorite of mine. Raven was interesting to me in 1996-7 since then he's not been the character. Raven was at his best as an outcast, as an outsider, etc. I really enjoyed him sitting in the front row, no music, etc. Also his promos got less well less Raven like as the years went on. Raven was never about hardcore wrestling he was just about delivering punishment by any means possible. Then came his forgettable WWE run and aside from a good year in 03 I haven't been interested in him in TNA.

[Hitman23]

I'd say they were neck and neck about two months ago during the Nexus debut, things truly felt different for about three weeks or so of the Nexus stuff. Then again Impact has lost a few points for the ECW stuff since it interests me less than zero percent. Its still close but if TNA finally gets this ECW stuff out of their system at Hard Justice and focuses on more interesting things like Fortune, "They", Lethal, Wolfe, etc. I'll be very happy.

Raven is by FAR my favorite ECW "icon". Sabu, Sandman, Dreamer all did nothing for me. Taz was ok but the minute he got truly big he left, RVD was pretty good but really the guy has never been that great on the mic. I've enjoyed his matches but I enjoy Rey Mysterio matches just as much and he's not a favorite of mine. Raven was interesting to me in 1996-7 since then he's not been the character. Raven was at his best as an outcast, as an outsider, etc. I really enjoyed him sitting in the front row, no music, etc. Also his promos got less well less Raven like as the years went on. Raven was never about hardcore wrestling he was just about delivering punishment by any means possible. Then came his forgettable WWE run and aside from a good year in 03 I haven't been interested in him in TNA.

The promo by Dreamer got me into it, I never watched ECW on a weekly basis, but I enjoyed ONS 05 and the Dreamer promo was great on Impact imo he made you feel sorry for what had happened and excited about what was going to happen. Im going to give props to Dixe for giving Dreamer the book on this and letting this happen, because from what I read this was not the plan tha Dixie had but Dreamer Raven Rhyno and Stevie went and pitched the idea which see approved.

[Slagaholic]

Wolfe's apparently been garnering a lot of heat backstage which would explain why he's been made to look like a douche recently.

[Hitman23]

Wolfe's apparently been garnering a lot of heat backstage which would explain why he's been made to look like a douche recently.

were did you see this?

[Slagaholic]

Source: The Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Those within TNA suggest Desmond Wolfe is currently in the doghouse. The British wrestling star has developed a reputation for being difficult to work with (ego), which has affected his push in the organization.

Company officials are also down on Matt Morgan, who has been discussed as being part of Ric Flair's Fortune group. Hernandez' two botched Border toss attempts during their Steel Cage bout at Victory Road were blamed on "The Blueprint" since Hernandez is a favorite among management.

[BurningHamster]

It's easy to say that about a show you don't watch. Try watching it without nitpicking it to death.

I did, believe me I am far from the smarky guy out to hate on everything since I freaking love wrestling and would rather enjoy something than bitch about it, but with the amount of talent TNA has they still somehow manage to be terrible and I'm not even sure how.

[MichiganHero]

Does anyone else think that the "he" Abyss is mentioning could Father James Mitchell/Sinister Minister? I would kinda make sense seeing as how Mitchell abused Abyss during the ned of his run in TNA.

[Stennick]

Its possible but I doubt it

[Hyde Hill]

Source: The Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Those within TNA suggest Desmond Wolfe is currently in the doghouse. The British wrestling star has developed a reputation for being difficult to work with (ego), which has affected his push in the organization.

Company officials are also down on Matt Morgan, who has been discussed as being part of Ric Flair's Fortune group. Hernandez' two botched Border toss attempts during their Steel Cage bout at Victory Road were blamed on "The Blueprint" since Hernandez is a favorite among management.

Ah good old Meltzer, for me that means the good old facebook term IGNORE.

[Hyde Hill]

I did, believe me I am far from the smarky guy out to hate on everything since I freaking love wrestling and would rather enjoy something than bitch about it, but with the amount of talent TNA has they still somehow manage to be terrible and I'm not even sure how.

Ok seems you have different tastes, which is ok. To me and many others as far as I have read, who do not blindly hate on TNA, it has been pretty good the last couple of months.

[Self]

Alrighty. The praise has piqued my interest. It's been long enough since I've watched Impact, and I enjoyed the last PPV (more than the WWE one that's for sure) so I'm going to watch this week's Impact. Usually I rock the cinema on a Sunday, but with nothing on, I need something on in the background while I potter around the house.

Come on, TNA. Impress me. I dare you.

[PeterHilton]

I think it's a massive problem because they present their PPVs like its some awesome blow-out to a huge arc of episodes on TV. They try to go all out on PPV and present a good product, but to what audience? I don't care that their primary revenue doesn't come from PPV buys - I never disputed any of that. I just think its a problem when you've been working towards a big show and to have 1% of your audience care about it? It means you aren't relevant and nobody cares.

It's a problem that goes beyond PPVs.

Ah...I see. if that's your point then that's totally legit.

my response would be that we've also discussed options to using PPVs as their method of ending big storyline arcs. And that if the PPvs are this bad, you might as well use live TV specials or extended episodes of Impacts.

Honestly, they don't depend on the PPvs so at this point they might as well just 'go around them' as it were.

[Self]

Come on, TNA. Impress me. I dare you.

Meh.

It hurt that it was a show about 'the mysterious future of TNA' which is something I have absolutely no interest in. I care about the wrestlers, their wins, their losses, the boosts and setbacks in their fighting careers. The main theme of this episode wasn't something that appealed to me. I'm a former ECW mark, but having already been informed of the upcoming PPV, I was bored watching the ending. Given that my favourite ECW guys were Super Crazy, Tajiri, The F.B.I, Steve Corino, Lance Storm etc the crop don't particularly float my boat.

I liked RVD's interview with Christy Hemme. He seems like a cool dude. I liked Beer Money vs MCMG. I'd love a little more focus on them, promos, videos etc. Sarita's going way up in my eyes after seeing her on this show, and an Xplosion webmatch against Taylor Wilde a few days ago. I can see a person behind her eyes. I love Kennedy's entrance. I wasn't overly exposed to his WWE stuff, but I dig him in TNA.

I liked Joe/Hardy... perhaps more in concept than execution. Borash announcing '30 seconds left' telegraphed the finish too much, but I LOVED them swinging for the fences. If I were running a wrestling show, I'd strongly consider giving every match a time limit, and putting a countdown on the screen, UFC-style. Potential for added excitement.

Interested to see the Best of Five continue, and Jeff/Joe. That's about it.

[GDE71]

1.07 1,441,000


So about the same the last 3 weeks.

[Stennick]

So I know some people think Dave cries wolf with TNA being on its last leg or in bad shape money wise, this or that. However his last report stated that Spike is heavily pressuring Dixie to sign Heyman. Their not happy with 1.0's, they thought with Bischoff and Hogan they would be doing 2.0+. Apparently Unleashed reruns draw .5's on a regular basis and its the same exact marketing demographic. His words were they like wrestling and want it on their network but their not in love with wrestling.

The biggest thing I can agree with them on is they have brought in Hogan, Bischoff, every big named talent they can and their drawing the same ratings they were four years ago. I know merch sales are up and what not but like everyone has said. TNA is a television product at this point, their sole purpose should be television ratings. Everything else should be icing on the cake.

[MasterJ]

So I know some people think Dave cries wolf with TNA being on its last leg or in bad shape money wise, this or that. However his last report stated that Spike is heavily pressuring Dixie to sign Heyman. Their not happy with 1.0's, they thought with Bischoff and Hogan they would be doing 2.0+. Apparently Unleashed reruns draw .5's on a regular basis and its the same exact marketing demographic. His words were they like wrestling and want it on their network but their not in love with wrestling.

The biggest thing I can agree with them on is they have brought in Hogan, Bischoff, every big named talent they can and their drawing the same ratings they were four years ago. I know merch sales are up and what not but like everyone has said. TNA is a television product at this point, their sole purpose should be television ratings. Everything else should be icing on the cake.

Yea I dont belive much he says Spike is most likly still happy with TNA as it is its highest rated show.

[maskedpropaganda]

... well I guess what I wanna do even though I threw up in my mouth alittle... is give Russo some credit. (from what I hear he is extremely overworked currently with others with input deciding to take personal days for surgery and etc. type reasons) I don't know if I am in the minority amongst the smarkys :) but I am digging the current TNA product. Like alot, like I am making sure to watch, haven't done that since 2:00 in the AM ECW Hardcore TV days. So as much as I HATE Russos smash TV and it all stills seems "smushed together" a little but with the rankings and best of 5 and the ECW nostalgia and the laughs with the bad editing (Abyss breaking his nail board or the Beautiful People chick calling in the "helmeted biker chick who's identity is a mystery" then screaming as she put the boots to the other beautiful peoples chick "get her Tara! Get her Tara!" all in front in the camera. :) to the nice matches from those who can deliver them (Pope, AJ, Joe etc.) to a heel turn for real estate Steve! (thats great! I find Sting whining to be entertaining.)

Just TNA went from being pretty cool to crap to righting itself again IMO and WHOMEVER should get credit for it wish they would.

[Slagaholic]

Prowrestling.net says that TNA going to be running a special event on SpikeTV in August called "TNA's Whole F'n Show"

If this is real, I have to believe SpikeTV named it.

[haloed]

Prowrestling.net says that TNA going to be running a special event on SpikeTV in August called "TNA's Whole F'n Show"

If this is real, I have to believe SpikeTV named it.

Well a special in August would make a lot of sense considering the PPV is being given to Dreamer and his ECW sendoff. So it is a good idea.

[Hyde Hill]

Would also be a good test to see what kind of numbers such specials would draw and possibly how much money they could make selling of the rights to said specials vis a vis ppv income.

[LoganRodzen]

TNA will be taping a special edition of iMPACT on August 9th in Orlando, the night after Hardcore Justice, and will air it that Thursday night. The line-up for the show will be loaded and feature ECW stars as well as TNA stars. It’s being called by some as a “free pay-per-view”, if that makes sense. The working title for the special is “The Whole F’N Show.” It’s said that the show will not feature promos and backstage segments.

I just think it's another reason NOT to order the PPV. Hold out for the "free PPV". :p

[Jaysin]

I'm not into spoilers, but my friend decided to spoil something for me and I cannot be angry about it.

highlight>Jerry Lynn and Sandman were at the tapings tonight<highlight

[crownsy]

I'm not into spoilers, but my friend decided to spoil something for me and I cannot be angry about it.




If it was 2001 or so I'd mark hard for that. But I'm sorry, I just don't care at this point, in fact those two will probably do alot to crush good memories for me, much the way Flair and Hogan are, than provide me with any new ones :/.

I love The old ECW crew...but it's over. I don't want to see those guys try to last as long as they can walk, like so many hardcore guys before them such as funk and foley.

[justtxyank]

Some of Funk's best work, and definitely his hardcore work, is a result of him hanging on as long as he can walk. If he had walked away at a reasonable time, he never would have been a part of ECW.

Anyway, Jerry Lynn can still go.

[cappyboy]

And I wouldn't discount Foley either. Not too many could have the schitzo relationship he did with Jeff Jarrett as Executive Shareholder and come out the same old lovable lug he was before. No one, including Hogan, was more qualified to be the professional mentor to Abyss during the Dr. Stevie ordeal than Mick Foley. Few of any age have the magic with the crowd that Foley has. He may not be as good as he once was in the physical sense. But in the sense of being a personality, you'd better believe that he is.

[crownsy]

And I wouldn't discount Foley either. Not too many could have the schitzo relationship he did with Jeff Jarrett as Executive Shareholder and come out the same old lovable lug he was before. No one, including Hogan, was more qualified to be the professional mentor to Abyss during the Dr. Stevie ordeal than Mick Foley. Few of any age have the magic with the crowd that Foley has. He may not be as good as he once was in the physical sense. But in the sense of being a personality, you'd better believe that he is.

To each there own, and i never denied they could still talk the talk. There legends, and promo's have nothing to do with athleticism, of course they can.

But to me, seeing them in action, at this point, is more sad than markable. But again, that's just me.

No interest in watching former legends struggle to go with young guys that couldn't hold their jock if they were the same age, just not my cup of tea.

But clearly, TNA with its Pushing of older stars, Hogan and Bisch, and now ECW hopes i am in the minority, and perhaps I am. But to me personally, i have no interest in it.

Watching Mick, for instance struggle to walk does not bring me back to his glory days the way TNA hopes it will.

Am I the Majority on that view? probably not. But it doesn't change the fact that for me, watching Older guys who have given the industry everything their body has struggle to work a 5-10 minute match is not what i tune in for. I'd rather just rember/watch thier old work.

I guess you could say im in that camp that wishes MJ had stayed retired :D

[Jaysin]

Skip to 6:18 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncUnqI9Kgzo)

God Magnus cracks me up.

[Slagaholic]

Magnus Mojo Master Class

Absolutely amazing

[TheEdgeOfReason]

Skip to 6:18 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ncUnqI9Kgzo)

God Magnus cracks me up.

That was brilliant. Loving this new Magnus.

[Jaysin]

That was brilliant. Loving this new Magnus.

It's the Mag daddy of course

[Self]

It's a new golden age of British wrestlers. Barrett. McGuiness. Terry. Now Magnus is becoming awesome too? A wondrous time.

[Jaysin]

It's a new golden age of British wrestlers. Barrett. McGuiness. Terry. Now Magnus is becoming awesome too? A wondrous time.

No Douglas Williams love?

[UkWrestleFan]

You forgot Wolfe, McIntyre & Sheamus :)

[Moe Hunter]

He mentioned Wolfe (McGuiness)

[Hyde Hill]

You forgot Wolfe, McIntyre & Sheamus :)

And maybe, like me, he does not think McIntyre and Sheamus are awesome/good.

[UkWrestleFan]

My bad(s) guys :(

[1234]

And maybe, like me, he does not think McIntyre and Sheamus are awesome/good.

If Rob Terry is on the list I think Drew and Sheamus have to be.

[MasterJ]

If Rob Terry is on the list I think Drew and Sheamus have to be.

I like Terry more than both of Sheamus and Drew

[Jaysin]

Sheamus is Irish, not British though isn't he?

[Gabbo]

That Magnus segment was great. Felt like a shoot it was so laidback and natural, I'd bet little if any of that was scripted, so refreshing. He didn't feel like a hammy actor badly playing a character like 99% of the WWE does, he felt like a genuine guy who wrestles.

[The Shape]

Never realised he was the dude on gladiators, lol.

[Jaysin]

That Magnus segment was great. Felt like a shoot it was so laidback and natural, I'd bet little if any of that was scripted, so refreshing. He didn't feel like a hammy actor badly playing a character like 99% of the WWE does, he felt like a genuine guy who wrestles.

Most of the TNA Today stuff is like that. There's a Jay Lethal one from Monday that's really good too.

[Hyde Hill]

I really feel that instead of promoting Dixie´s twitter they should be promoting TNA today and or the webmatches etc.

[Fleisch]

Sheamus is Irish, not British though isn't he?

Correct. He is from Dublin, Rep. Of Ireland (Eire) which is not part of Britain.

Magnus is brilliant. Give him a few years and I think he'll do well for himself. Lets not forget he's only 23. So we're up to 2 former UK Gladiators making waves in the US. Isn't the guy who was Goliath now the FCW Champion?

[crownsy]

And maybe, like me, he does not think McIntyre and Sheamus are awesome/good.

To me, Sheamus is ALOT better than drew is. I think Sheamus has really established himself, while Drew is still a good in ring guy with little connection to the crowd.

He has been better since they stopped pushing him as Vince's golden child due to the Nexus taking Vince out though.

[MasterJ]

I wanna see a Flair/Terry Funk match at "Whole F'n Show" or Hardcore Justice just for old times sake

[Stennick]

Is Balls going to be there? Balls, Balls, Balls, Balls

[Slagaholic]

Hogan finds a way to put himself over Dixie Carter. I ****ing love him.

[LoganRodzen]

Hogan in the ring with ECW originals... can't say TNA isn't doing something fresh. :p

[MasterJ]

Only in TNA btw EV 2.0?????

[Slagaholic]

They got the crowd chanting it!

[MasterJ]

They got the crowd chanting it!

yea I like it ok

[Slagaholic]

I think it's awful. Surprise surprise Bischoff thought of it. First thing he's added creatively in months.

[MasterJ]

My little sisters are in here watching TNA with me one is 11 and ones 12 I asked them which they like better the 11 year old says WWE is stupid TNA is better and the 12 year old say WWE cause Cena is hot:rolleyes:

[Slagaholic]

Matt Morgan = :)

[Johnny Fenoli]

Is Balls going to be there? Balls, Balls, Balls, Balls

yeap, confirmed tonight. along with Axl.

[Timber]

Poor Eric Young. I was rooting for him when he was the Global Champ and now they put him back to idiot mode. Just sad.

[The Final Countdown]

Poor Eric Young. I was rooting for him when he was the Global Champ and now they put him back to idiot mode. Just sad.
Indeed. I HATE goofy, comedic Eric Young.

Hopefully they won't bring back the "Super Eric" garbage, at least.

[MasterJ]

Indeed. I HATE goofy, comedic Eric Young.

Hopefully they won't bring back the "Super Eric" garbage, at least.

I like the comedy Eric I think he could be their Santino but it looks like they will bring back serious eric once his "Injury" Heals but who knows

[Timber]

I could see TNA having a Santino type of guy, but they play Eric Young as an idiot. More of a Eugene type of character rather than a funny guy. If he was put into the Santino mold and just a fun and funny guy that could wrestle, that'd be fine. To make him a brain damaged idiot, just ruins the guy for me.

I miss Eric as the leader and face of the World Elite. I liked that faction and wish they didn't just drop it. I do hope they "heal" him and give him back some respect.



Honestly, i miss the Main Event Mafia, too.

[Self]

I really liked Eric Young back when he played cowardly and practically had a heart attack from his own pyro. I chuckled every time. Then he turned into a serious Jericho clone and I completely lost interest. Killed the character for me. Not to Abyss levels, but near enough.

[Comradebot]

I miss Scott Steiner.

I don't care if he's a decade past his prime, he amuses the crap out of me. One of the best, and most unique, promo men in the business... and he's now in a company where most of their fans speak Spanish.

[MrCanada]

I'm liking Murphy & Gunner (aka Mikael Judas and Phill Shatter, always thought Shatter, the littler one, had great potential and a cool look).

For some reason I've always loved security in wrestling. I remember when TNA had the Red Shirt Security of Joe Legend & Kevin Northcutt feuding with the Black Shirt Security of Chris Vaughn and Rick Santel, for some reason it made me mark out. I know the Harris Bros also played the roll of security for a while, but never really were used as an angle.

[b0shey]

Hogan in the ring with ECW originals... can't say TNA isn't doing something fresh. :p

You mean like WWE did with Austin at ONS (celebrate with ECW), TNA is just copying WWE with just about everything they do.

My little sisters are in here watching TNA with me one is 11 and ones 12 I asked them which they like better the 11 year old says WWE is stupid TNA is better and the 12 year old say WWE cause Cena is hot:rolleyes:

I bet the 11 year old will feel the same in a year or two

[20LEgend]

Well the shocking Raven turn was very obvious to me, decent show. Matt Morgan vs Mr. Anderson look to be a fun fued

[LoganRodzen]

You mean like WWE did with Austin at ONS (celebrate with ECW), TNA is just copying WWE with just about everything they do.

That wasn't a big deal considering Austin was in ECW at one time. Hogan in the ring with all of those guys was like... :eek:

[crownsy]

That wasn't a big deal considering Austin was in ECW at one time. Hogan in the ring with all of those guys was like... :eek:

I thought it was a nice moment, but not really that remarkable.

[Hyde Hill]

You mean like WWE did with Austin at ONS (celebrate with ECW), TNA is just copying WWE with just about everything they do.



I bet the 11 year old will feel the same in a year or two

TNA is not copying jack**** or better yet they are copying everything. Because everything has been done in wrestling.

[GDE71]

PWTorch has reported TNA did 1.65 million viewers

I'm guessing that's very close to a 1.2 rating.

[MasterJ]

so that would mean a 200K Veiwers gain from last week? thats pretty damn good I guess the people who said ECW would help were wrong

[Jaysin]

Here's an advertised list of matches for TNA's Whole F'n Show.

-Rob Van Dam vs. Abyss for the TNA Title.
-Kurt Angle vs. A.J. Styles.
-Madison Rayne vs. Angelina Love.
-Jeff Hardy's open challenge.
-D'Angelo Dinero vs. Matt Morgan vs. Mr. Anderson in a three-way.
-Motor City Machine Guns vs. Beer Money in the final match of their best of five series (if necessary).
-Ink Inc. vs. Generation Me in a No. 1 contenders match.

Sounds like a great card.

Kind of hoping Jeff's challenge is answered by someone new like Shelton or Helms.

[MasterJ]

Here's an advertised list of matches for TNA's Whole F'n Show.

-Rob Van Dam vs. Abyss for the TNA Title.
-Kurt Angle vs. A.J. Styles.
-Madison Rayne vs. Angelina Love.
-Jeff Hardy's open challenge.
-D'Angelo Dinero vs. Matt Morgan vs. Mr. Anderson in a three-way.
-Motor City Machine Guns vs. Beer Money in the final match of their best of five series (if necessary).
-Ink Inc. vs. Generation Me in a No. 1 contenders match.

Sounds like a great card.

Kind of hoping Jeff's challenge is answered by someone new like Shelton or Helms.

Or wait for it.....Matt Hardy breaking his WWE contract and faceing his brother or Scott Hall because I'm a Hall mark;)

[Slagaholic]

My money's on Samoa Joe. Please don't let it be Rob Terry...

[MasterJ]

My money's on Samoa Joe. Please don't let it be Rob Terry...

I like Terry

[Jaysin]

Terry has potential to be an ok big guy, but I don't think him and Jeff would have a good one.

Joe would be a good one though.

[Teh_Showtime]

the Hardy brothers have really let themselves go

I caught about the last 45 minutes of impact and Jeff's flab is getting to be to the point of fail that his elder brother's body is

[MasterJ]

the Hardy brothers have really let themselves go

I caught about the last 45 minutes of impact and Jeff's flab is getting to be to the point of fail that his elder brother's body is

The reason for Jeff I belive is he's not doing the drugs that he was because he's got a case open

[Slagaholic]

If he's really stopped using, the weight gain would make complete sense.

[Teh_Showtime]

maybe he can finially stay clean

he's a pretty good performer when on his game

[Jaysin]

maybe he can finially stay clean

he's a pretty good performer when on his game

Totally agree. Matt is a pretty good performer when he actually cares. He's gotten so lazy. I honestly think Matt's slacking because Jeff's not there anymore and neither is Helms. I think Joey Mercury is his only long time friend in the company right now, but he's not even a member of the "core group"

[Teh_Showtime]

agreed

last year when they were feuding they had some great matches

they had a match at backlash that was just as good as their WM match and you can't say that about many feuds because most die right after WM.

I think it would be good if Matt came to TNA, but I think he would've done it by now considering that Jeff has been jumping ship for a while now

[Stennick]

Totally agree. Matt is a pretty good performer when he actually cares. He's gotten so lazy. I honestly think Matt's slacking because Jeff's not there anymore and neither is Helms. I think Joey Mercury is his only long time friend in the company right now, but he's not even a member of the "core group"

I doubt this has much to do with it. Sure those guys are his friends and have been his friends but Matt's been a part of the WWE for 13 plus years now. I would think he's been around some of these guys for enough time now that he's developed a few friendships.

Matt doesn't care anymore because he's just there. He's never going to be a champion, he's never going to rise above mid card and his best shot at ever being something was during the V1 gimmick and that was what seven years ago?

No doubt he's gotten lazy but Jeff has been gone plenty of times before and Helms has been hurt seemingly non stop since 07 anyway so its not like he's been paling around with these guys every week on the road for years now.

Matt is right where he should be for a 36 year old mid carder.

[BHK1978]

I personally like the joke/crazy Eric Young. I really loved it when he moved to parts unknown so TNA could not fire him.

Is LAX going to get back together again? I mean they are really not doing much with either guy right now and I would love to see another team added to the TNA tag team division (which is pretty deep in my opinion).

[Self]

My money's on Samoa Joe. Please don't let it be Rob Terry...

Was there a follow-up on the Jeff/Joe draw this week on Impact? I figured it was leading somewhere, but didn't notice anything on the spoilers.

[20LEgend]

Joe/Jeff had no follow up this week, so I reckon Joe answers the challenge

[crownsy]

agreed

last year when they were feuding they had some great matches

they had a match at backlash that was just as good as their WM match and you can't say that about many feuds because most die right after WM.

I think it would be good if Matt came to TNA, but I think he would've done it by now considering that Jeff has been jumping ship for a while now


He's not going to go to TNA at 36 to make less money just to be in there title hunt.

If he was younger, mabey. But i think he's quite happy collecting his larger paycheck from the E to be a midcarder at this stage in his life.

He'll always have a place in the E's midcard because he's over, and he's a good worker who you can count on to make his opponent look good and not hurt them with a botch. No need to uproot his life at age 36 just to be in a title hunt in TNA.

[GDE71]

It was a 1.22

The odd thing is the demographics were pretty much level or slightly down except for 12-17 males which were up a lot.

Still a 1.22 is the highest since Feb.

[Jaysin]

Is LAX going to get back together again? I mean they are really not doing much with either guy right now and I would love to see another team added to the TNA tag team division (which is pretty deep in my opinion).

I hope so. Hernandez annoys the hell out of me as a singles worker, but I love Homicide.

[Slagaholic]

Hernandez is second only to Rob Terry in poses per minute.

[Jaysin]

He like walks on his toes or something. He walks really weird. It irritates me.

[Hyde Hill]

It was a 1.22

The odd thing is the demographics were pretty much level or slightly down except for 12-17 males which were up a lot.

Still a 1.22 is the highest since Feb.

Good rating and given that the increase was mainly in that demo I think it might have more to do with the consistent quality over the last couple of months then specifically the ECW stuff given that nostalgia should not appeal to that large an extent to that age group.

[Hyde Hill]

On LAX I like em either way as singles or tag. But as I am a big fan of tag wrestling I would prefer a reunion.

Just picture this:

Beer Money
Guns
LAX
WGTT
Hooliganz
British Invasion
Inc Inc
Gen Me
3D

That is one kick ass division.

[Jaysin]

Who are Hooliganz?

[Stennick]

London and Kendrick but unless I missed something London has not only said he won't go to TNA he has openly mocked them on Youtube. I get the impression Paul has saved his money well. The guy has an apartment in Sherman Oaks, CA (very very rich neighborhood).

[Stennick]

WARNING: This video is NOT for children if you're offended or grossed out don't watch it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uu-1lJa6p5k

This is what Paul spends his free time doing, just completely killing TNA. The WWE too for that matter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHxnr1So1hc&feature=related

This video is fine for all ages and just as funny.

[PeterHilton]

London and Kendrick but unless I missed something London has not only said he won't go to TNA he has openly mocked them on Youtube. I get the impression Paul has saved his money well. The guy has an apartment in Sherman Oaks, CA (very very rich neighborhood).

Sherman Oaks is actually not that nice. Its very lower middle income especially for LA

[Stennick]

Ahhh I always heard rich people talking about it, maybe they were talking about it in a down sorta way my bad ha ha.

[Jaysin]

Just watched Impact again with my brother since he didn't get to watch it Thursday. Kazarian took two shots at the WWE in his Fortune promo that I didn't catch Thursday.

"We're not just a group of angry rookies..." and "We're the best in the TNA Galaxy"

Nexus and WWE Universe anyone? :p

[tristram]

Ahhh I always heard rich people talking about it, maybe they were talking about it in a down sorta way my bad ha ha.

Hmmm.... I kinda thought Sherman Oaks must be fairly average given the way it's played out in Two and a Half Men.

I relate everything to Two and a Half Men. That is all.

[20LEgend]

Just watched Impact again with my brother since he didn't get to watch it Thursday. Kazarian took two shots at the WWE in his Fortune promo that I didn't catch Thursday.

"We're not just a group of angry rookies..." and "We're the best in the TNA Galaxy"

Nexus and WWE Universe anyone? :p

I noticed the TNA Galaxy one but I missed the angry rookies comment, they seem to be taking a few shots at them each week.

[Basmat01]

I noticed the TNA Galaxy one but I missed the angry rookies comment, they seem to be taking a few shots at them each week.

TNA have been taking shots at the WWE for years.

[1234]

WARNING: This video is NOT for children if you're offended or grossed out don't watch it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uu-1lJa6p5k

This is what Paul spends his free time doing, just completely killing TNA. The WWE too for that matter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHxnr1So1hc&feature=related

This video is fine for all ages and just as funny.

London is brave, has definately burnt some bridges with that first video.

[Basmat01]

London is brave, has definately burnt some bridges with that first video.

He looks like his as high as a kite lol most likey is

[Hive]

WARNING: This video is NOT for children if you're offended or grossed out don't watch it.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uu-1lJa6p5k

This is what Paul spends his free time doing, just completely killing TNA. The WWE too for that matter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PHxnr1So1hc&feature=related

This video is fine for all ages and just as funny.

Hilarious stuff, especially the second one. I had no idea the guy was that funny. :D

[Moe Hunter]

Makes me wonder why they never let him talk. He has a similar voice to CM Punk even. Obviously not as good a promo guy as Punk but I definitely think he should have been given a mic from time to time, instead of letting Cole tell his story all the time.

[Jaysin]

TNA have been taking shots at the WWE for years.

They've been getting pretty clever with their shots though.

[20LEgend]

They seem to be trying to be slightly subtle about it

[Slagaholic]

AJ just got a huge tattoo

http://i26.tinypic.com/30uu5xj.jpg

[Jaysin]

The AJ stands for the initials of him and his three sons. I thought that was pretty kick ass of him.

[1234]

AJ just got a huge tattoo

http://i26.tinypic.com/30uu5xj.jpg

What the ****...

Will be interesting to see this on impact, although I will have to YouTube it once I'm back from holiday.

[Jaysin]

What the ****...

Will be interesting to see this on impact, although I will have to YouTube it once I'm back from holiday.

AJ- Ajay Covell Jones, Avery Jones, and Albey Jones and the three dates are his son's birth dates who I just named.

I'm pretty sure that's his first tattoo, so he went pretty big for his first one. Makes me want to get another one. I'd actually really like to get tattooed at Gas Chamber Inc(where AJ, Matt Morgan, and Jesse Neal got tattooed last night) to get work down some day.

The tattoo artists there do fantastic work. Plus, I love Shannon Moore lol

[benjacko]

Be interested to see what TNA think about him getting such a prominent tattoo done.

[TheEdgeOfReason]

That tat is pretty badass. Must have cost a pretty penny(Well maybe he didn't have to pay, exposure and that).

[Self]

Eww... Not a fan.

[Stennick]

That tat is pretty badass. Must have cost a pretty penny(Well maybe he didn't have to pay, exposure and that).

Exposure but without anything saying "AJ's tat was done and so and so place" every week exposure doesn't mean a lot. You could put pictures up of him in there getting it done but really once somebody's in the building chances are their gonna get one anyway.

[TheEdgeOfReason]

Exposure but without anything saying "AJ's tat was done and so and so place" every week exposure doesn't mean a lot. You could put pictures up of him in there getting it done but really once somebody's in the building chances are their gonna get one anyway.

Not really. When somebody is going for a tattoo, they will look around and make sure they like the work of the place they're getting it in. Seeing AJ on the wall may convince them its a great place, seeing as he could choose any parlour in America pretty much. Or just when he is interacting with fans they may ask him where he got it etc..

[pate]

Eww... Not a fan.

Same. Wow.

[Hyde Hill]

Eww... Not a fan.

Agreed, I really dug AJ's non tat look. Fit his character and wrestling style better imho.

[Hyde Hill]

Hilarious stuff, especially the second one. I had no idea the guy was that funny. :D

If you like that get the highspots interview with him and Kendrick freaking hilarious.

[spikedave]

AJ- Ajay Covell Jones, Avery Jones, and Albey Jones and the three dates are his son's birth dates who I just named.

I'm pretty sure that's his first tattoo, so he went pretty big for his first one. Makes me want to get another one. I'd actually really like to get tattooed at Gas Chamber Inc(where AJ, Matt Morgan, and Jesse Neal got tattooed last night) to get work down some day.

The tattoo artists there do fantastic work. Plus, I love Shannon Moore lol
James Storm also got a new tat.

Must be something in the water at TNA

[Basmat01]

They've been getting pretty clever with their shots though.

I agree. I have always like it when they take shots at WWE. I did enjoy the Voodoo Kin Mafia thing they had going a few years back.

I also love it then WWE take the rare shot at tna too

[Hive]

If you like that get the highspots interview with him and Kendrick freaking hilarious.

Ordering such stuff from USA would be a bitch for me. But I can easily imagine those two being funny together (never actually saw anything they've done).

[Self]

Didn't watch Impact this week, but did see TNA Xplosion. Magnus and Desmond Wolfe teamed up, which is a combination I like. They've both got this weird suave Englishman gimmick going for them (without going stereotypical) so they seem to fit together quite nicely. Sweet double team Tower of London finish too.

In other news, Max Buck (God help me I've forgotten their indy names) is a pretty good talker. Jeremy Buck is not. Nice to see them getting time to talk though. I like the relaxed, UFC-ish interviews on this show.

Crazy Eric Young amuses me. He overdid it on this show a tad, but I like the concept.

[Jaysin]

Also, on the second watching of Impact I realized that after OJ/EY vs Ink Inc, Eric threw up the "X" hand sign. I seem to be in the minority that loves funny Eric.

[spikedave]

Also, on the second watching of Impact I realized that after OJ/EY vs Ink Inc, Eric threw up the "X" hand sign. I seem to be in the minority that loves funny Eric.
That had me in sitches! He was calling the trainer aswell!
Also when he threw the mannequin in had me laughing out loud.

On a side note Sabu has been announced for Hardcore Justice!!!

Just hate im in the uk and cant watch it till the following friday!

[Hyde Hill]

Ordering such stuff from USA would be a bitch for me. But I can easily imagine those two being funny together (never actually saw anything they've done).

Who was talking about ordering??? Cough, cough.

[Hive]

Who was talking about ordering??? Cough, cough.

Well, I couldn't find it anywhere but their official webpage... :o

[The Stallion]

Anybody know a good place to catch Xplosion online. I dont get whatever channel its on and I would like to see the format of the show. Thanks!

[Stennick]

Kind of surprised they dont' have it on Youtube alongside Impact

[juggaloninjalee]

How has WWE taken shots at TNA? I havent noticed it much if at all.

[MasterJ]

Double J has stoped given hints about the "big Surprise" for TNA and when ask he put on his twitter he wrote "And I will state this again, the reason no hints for a while...a NDA (Non-disclosure agreement) was signed." hummm Heyman at Hardcore Justice I think so ;)

[Jaysin]

Double J has stoped given hints about the "big Surprise" for TNA and when ask he put on his twitter he wrote "And I will state this again, the reason no hints for a while...a NDA (Non-disclosure agreement) was signed." hummm Heyman at Hardcore Justice I think so ;)

I doubt it, but Dreamer did say he's been in talks with Heyman. I'm not holding my breath, but it'd be nice.

[sebsplex]

Didn't watch Impact this week, but did see TNA Xplosion. Magnus and Desmond Wolfe teamed up, which is a combination I like. They've both got this weird suave Englishman gimmick going for them (without going stereotypical) so they seem to fit together quite nicely. Sweet double team Tower of London finish too.

In other news, Max Buck (God help me I've forgotten their indy names) is a pretty good talker. Jeremy Buck is not. Nice to see them getting time to talk though. I like the relaxed, UFC-ish interviews on this show.

Crazy Eric Young amuses me. He overdid it on this show a tad, but I like the concept.

I also caught most of Xplosion this week and I concur, it was good stuff. I still think that Velocity niche is out there for a solid B-Show mixing occasionally appearances from the odd indy darling and some solid matches with some of TNA's lesser lights (nice to see more of Generation ME for one). Magnus and Wolfe have potential as a team (at least a semi-regular one), although with Magnus's attire and beard I had to do a doulbe-take to make sure it wasn't Charlie Haas walking out with Wolfe. I wish the Chelsea/Wolfe friction storyline would go somewhere though. I thought only Abyss owned her for a set amount of days? Surely she could just, I don't know... not come out with Wolfe if it's that much of an issue for her.

I'll reveal my membership to the 'I like crazy Eric' club. It's goofy and the joke may well not have a lot of shelf-life after we've seen the act for a few weeks, but for now, I'm liking it. Little things like Young obliviously carrying out heel-ish tag tricks like the old knee-to-the-back-from-the-other-side-of-the-ropes on his own partner make me smile.

[Slagaholic]

2 Cold Scorpio is going to be at Hardcore Justice. YES!

It's been announced that ReACTION will ReDEBUT after The Whole F'n Show 8/12

Still no word on if/when Xplosion comes back to America.

Also, Samoa Joe was suspended. Sigh...

[spikedave]

Joe is suspened?? WHY

[Slagaholic]

A "bad attitude." He got hot after the time limit draw with Hardy since the ending was given away by Borash. He's also been gaining weight even though TNA told him to put down the cheeseburgers.

[Jaysin]

On the topic of Joe's suspension, Joe posted this on his twitter account about 40 minutes ago.

SamoaJoe: *yawn* RT @RevRunWisdom: Gossip is for the weak if you don't see it with your eyes it shouldn't be coming out your mouth.

I'm not taking the news very seriously.

[SaySo]

On the topic of Joe's suspension, Joe posted this on his twitter account about 40 minutes ago.



I'm not taking the news very seriously.

He tweeted the same thing 24 hours ago. Did this news leak (indefinite suspension) get reported yesterday? Or is it recent (today)? He basically repeated a twit from a day ago.

link: http://twitter.com/SamoaJoe/status/20174885554

The person he responded to appears to be religious.

[Jaysin]

He tweeted the same thing 24 hours ago. Did this news leak (indefinite suspension) get reported yesterday? Or is it recent (today)? He basically repeated a twit from a day ago.

link: http://twitter.com/SamoaJoe/status/20174885554

The person he responded to appears to be religious.

The person he retweeted too was Rev. Run from Run DMC.

The suspension rumor broke today, but the rumors about him blowing up on people started earlier this week. At least Saturday or Sunday because Sunday night my buddy and I talked about it in our weekly get together.

[SaySo]

Bischoff on Hulk Hogan's health following back surgery: "I don't know for sure," Bischoff said. "I don't even ask him anymore because I know what his reaction would be. He'd say he's feeling perfect." Bischoff said Hogan feels that if he verbalizes something positively, it will come true, which is why he takes that approach with his back.

Bischoff went on to say that he believes Hogan's in-ring career is over. "I don't see him wrestling again," Bischoff said. "I'd be disappointed and there would probably be a physical moment backstage because I would try to stop him."

Bischoff on the TNA Hardcore Justice pay-per-view: Bischoff confirmed Dot Net reports that he pitched the idea of an EV2.0 project in early 2010, and his original vision called for more than a reunion pay-per-view. "Despite what people want to believe, this whole arc that is playing out now was laid out in March," Bischoff said. He added that there have been a few tweaks along the way.

Bischoff said he will be in Orlando for the pay-per-view, but he does not plan on participating as an on-air performer. He declined to comment on whether his vision will eventually play out, but he does feel that people are judging the story based on one page rather than reading the entire book and then formulating an opinion. He added that he's not sure whether Hulk Hogan will be at the pay-per-view on Sunday.

Bischoff on the status of the Micro Championship Wrestling reality show: The show was reedited in July. It tested well with a focus group. There were some suggestions made that are being implemented in another editing process. It will be sent back to TruTV at that point.

Source: pro-wrestling.net

[MichiganHero]

If the Joe thing is correct, why doesn't Joe just cut his losses and leave? I mean he isn't exactly gonna be out of work.

[Stennick]

Well aside from being under contract and unable to just leave? I'd say that would be the first step. I doubt TNA is going to just let this guy walk. They won't even let Homicide walk and I'd say given his push their a bit more interested in Joe than Cide.

[Basmat01]

Well aside from being under contract and unable to just leave? I'd say that would be the first step. I doubt TNA is going to just let this guy walk. They won't even let Homicide walk and I'd say given his push their a bit more interested in Joe than Cide.

True they have put alot of time into him to just let him leave.

I think its just the simple case of joe being lost in the shuffle. With the influx of new talent and only 2 hours of tv a week some were bound to make way for the newer talent.

[PeterHilton]

True they have put alot of time into him to just let him leave.

I think its just the simple case of joe being lost in the shuffle. With the influx of new talent and only 2 hours of tv a week some were bound to make way for the newer talent.

Right, but Joe's been 'lost in the shuffle' for quite a while now..even his push into the title match against AJ last year sort of came out of nowhere.

They let go of Daniels. I'm sure if TNA didn't see Joe as a threat to go to the WWE they'd have let go of him by now as well.

[20LEgend]

Really pleased to see the FBI confirmed, Little Guido is awesome.

[Hyde Hill]

Right, but Joe's been 'lost in the shuffle' for quite a while now..even his push into the title match against AJ last year sort of came out of nowhere.

They let go of Daniels. I'm sure if TNA didn't see Joe as a threat to go to the WWE they'd have let go of him by now as well.

Ah well he does remain featured and having good matches against fellow high contenders. They just need to find a storyline for him if one is not already in the works. And god do I hope they can get Daniels back.

[Stennick]

I think TNA to a degree has always looked at AJ and Joe as their franchise players or their "future" even though AJ's been there eight years, Joe's been there four or five and neither of them is getting any younger.

The problem is AJ has succeeded on several occasions to play a character outside of his base. I'd say his base is smiling babyface who does jaw dropping moves and is a generally likeable guy. When he aligned with Angle I felt he was very entertaining in a completely different role. Even this role he's in now. Even if I hate the fact he's wearing a robe and frosting his tips and wearing a suit and basically being made to be Ric Flair Jr. If you take all that away and focus on his promos his promos are very good heel promos. So AJ has proven he's got charisma and a lot more mic work than most people give him credit for. If it werent for his good looks and seemingly unlimited amount of jaw dropping moves I'd make the guy a heel all the time. He's a very good annoying, smarmy, sort of cowardly heel and thats something that I think TNA lacks. With Jarrett and Angle as the top heels and even Abyss they were all bad asses or in JJ's case not a bad ass by he wasn't really a coward. AJ is the best cowardly main event heel I've seen in TNA. AJ should be and is the focus of that company.

The problem with Joe is I don't know if its Joe or TNA but anytime they move away from the one thing Joe does well. For lack of a better term thats "kill people". I've seen his tweets, I've read his blogs, he's alteast somewhat entertaining but EVERY time I hear this guy on the mic it feels incredibly forced. I feel like when Joe is being pushed to the top its very forced. Desmond Wolfe has character, CM Punk has character. When these guys talk its more than a wrestling promo. Joe's "grrr I'm gonna kill you" when he's on the mic just doesn't do it for me. I don't see much character in what Joe does and I think his value on a larger than indy level is highly overrated much in the way Bryan Daniels is.

For lack of a better term and its not the best term but its the best I can think of. Bryan Daniels and Joe are examples of a Tim Tebow. A guy that was REALLY dominant and amazing on one level but has a LOT of work to do and someone very creative to work with in order to make him a super star on the next level. Some guys are very very good AAA ball players but aren't anything more than bench filler in the majors. To me this is Joe. The guy is a very good wrestler but I don't see any character in what he does. He feels like to me he's always playing the same character its just a matte of if he's beating up good guys or bad guys. I'm not saying Joe can't do it, or doesn't have it in him but after five years in TNA I haven't seen the guy do anything near the level character wise that I've seen out of AJ Styles, Alex Shelly, Eric Young, Chris Sabin, Jay Lethal, Desmond Wolfe and other guys that are of the same "generation" as him.

The only reason I'd say TNA doesn't cut him is because they have spent five years investing a lot of time into it. I will say that I don't think Bischoff and Hogan see Joe as the "man" like other TNA guys do. Its very obvious how decreased Joe's pushes have been. Heck the guy spent two months off of television or more comes back and hasn't really had a "feud" yet. Just minor disagreements here or there. I do know Heyman has gone on record as saying he loves Joe and could do big things with him so it will be interesting to see if Heyman does come on if Joe's push is changed.

[The Final Countdown]

I think you have a point regarding Joe, but I wouldn't include Danielson in that category. If you're using AJ Styles as a barometer in this example, I think Bryan is at least as good a talker as him. He's not on a level with some of the other guys you mentioned, like Punk and Nigel/Desmond, but I think he's grown into a more than adequate talker over the past several years. He's like the anti-Low Ki, who I swear has regressed promo-wise. And he wasn't that good to being with.

[Stennick]

I agree during the NXT thing Danielson did show flashes of being capable of the mic and I would agree that he's progressed. Its hard to say how much because the sample size compared to an AJ is so low regarding the amount of exposure and talking time he's really had.

[Hive]

I do know Heyman has gone on record as saying he loves Joe and could do big things with him so it will be interesting to see if Heyman does come on if Joe's push is changed.

I think a mouthpiece like Heyman could do wonders for Joe. It's a shame they don't really use him, I really like him. I've always been fond of big men who could actually wrestle, like Vader and Bam Bam.

[Basmat01]

Well I think the "Nation of Violence" killed all momentum Joe had, I gimmick was just poorly done. I mean seriously he was carrying around a massive knife lol

[BurningHamster]

I think you have a point regarding Joe, but I wouldn't include Danielson in that category. If you're using AJ Styles as a barometer in this example, I think Bryan is at least as good a talker as him. He's not on a level with some of the other guys you mentioned, like Punk and Nigel/Desmond, but I think he's grown into a more than adequate talker over the past several years. He's like the anti-Low Ki, who I swear has regressed promo-wise. And he wasn't that good to being with.

I'd have to agree on this one, maybe even go a step further. I think Danielson when he has a reason to talk is very good. He will occasionally stumble on something minor but that is a small drawback considering he can be believable, intense, bit of a smartypants jerk, humble etc. I actually rate him as above average overall in terms of promo ability.

I have not seen much recent Nigel/Desmond Wolfe (wow, taking a name from withnail and I, sneaky) but I never remember his promos standing out that much. I probably need to check out his recent stuff.

Low Ki is a pretty horrible promo and more than anything I think his voice detracts from that. I remember when I was a stupid 11 year old and my voice broke before everyone elses and I thought it made me a big man, I would walk around talking as low as I could and probably sounded like as big a retard as Low Ki. I would probably sell more in playfights too.

I agree on Joe always sounding forced. I just get the impression that he isn't naturally a very threatening guy because well .... he's a big fat samoan dude and probably never has much cause to convince people he can beat them up. I think Joe is the kind of guy who should just shut up or get a manager or maybe be put in a tag team with someone who can talk.

[cappyboy]

Well I think the "Nation of Violence" killed all momentum Joe had, I gimmick was just poorly done. I mean seriously he was carrying around a massive knife lol

I wouldn't even consider that the major problem. The problem was they took what could have been a useful stable and essentially made it a One Man Gang gimmick. Give Tazz and Joe another single, ideally Daniels, and a tag team so they have all the major divisions covered. Heck maybe even a Roxxi or ODB to create a presence in the Knockout division. Set them a target, ideally AJ, and you could really have had something. Instead they had to scale back because they went with it during the Main Event Mafia's life cycle and killed all the potential the NoV had. I doubt better execution of the aesthetics would have helped at all. There was no room to do what was called for because the scene was so crowded already.