I'm virtually astounded by the hate regarding threads toward observations, or even past reports concerning WCW. I realize that all of us are not going to share the same sentiment regarding Hogan, and that is fine. But could we please try to act intelligent, and not go at each others throats? With that. I will now continue with my point, and hopefully will bring up some points that have not already been covered. Anybody who knows me knows the high level of criticism I've got regarding Indy's, and professional wrestling as a whole. I will call something when it sucks, and I do not for any reason rest on my laurels. I usually take a neutral stance, and while viewing the product make useful observations that could over all improve the product. Especially from a business point of view. From whatever backstage reports I can read up on.
I am an "outsider" to the wrestling world, even though I do watch WWE on occasion. I'm very open to giving another organization a chance because over the years wrestling adapts, and picks up new fans of various styles. I'm a martial artist and would rather spend my time with the UFC than WWE/TNA. However, I have watched TNA, and this is something we can all agree on.
TNA needs to focus on putting on a quality product, first, and foremost. With a TV deal they should learn how to pack 2 hours of quality wrestling over the air waves. They shouldn't be more concerned with WWE & going after them, and instead put that effort into an intriguing and interesting product.
I mentioned after Jan 4th. That either TNA would be a step ahead, or still finding its place. I agree with the post which mentioned that TNA was going in a better direction without Hogan.
Now, what are you thoughts regarding a TNA producer telling fans they are merely cast members, and they need to merely be drones to get TNA's story telling across, and not distract the wrestlers? This was Hogan's and also Bischoff's doing to censor the fan's statement's regarding the horrible direction they witnessed at Genesis. I did not watch it, but regarding Hogan you should base your observation's on his idea's of change based on Genesis as a starting point, and every Impact after. Because with taking away the six sided ring you kill TNA's originality, and everything that made it unique. You kill the one thing that made it so interesting it eventually got the promotion a TV deal. Because every wrestler in TNA knew how to work in a six sided ring. The X Division and & Ultimate X were born from that six sided ring. The faster paced quality was because TNA talent revolutionized the business at a point when it needed to be. The fans noticed this, and helped TNA to launch to a bigger platform.
Also TNA doesn't need a make over like a few may agree with. All TNA really needed was to hold off bringing in talent. And focus on the talent they had now. After another two to three years if you want to bring in a name or two to let them add something to the product because it may need to be elevated then fine. However TNA had enough talent on its roster to make a considerable difference. The TNA product does not need to look like a copy of every other promotion out there. You're an alternative. Being the B company is not a bad thing. Ratings don't always accurately step by step what we consider quality. Hogan is not the answer.
Here is the greater point here. This is how I see Hogan. All you have to do is look at his track record. He always looked after himself. He never did what was better for business. The WWF/E is about creating new stars. The only thing Hogan did was create a star for himself until he was too old where he could no longer do it. Contrary to popular belief. Hogan is no longer a draw. Nobody gave a shit about Hogan, and that is one thing the ratings did prove. Also think of it like this. Say you have a safe cracker who was just released from prison. Would you want that man working your vault at the local branch of your bank? The answer should be NO without even thinking about it. So I see TNA as the vault and Hogan as the safe cracker. Just my observation. Hogan certainly didn't need press. Before I stopped watching TNA again due to the travesty I knew was heading its way. All TNA Impact was flooded with was Hogan, and who he was bringing along. Why? Why was that necessary? Couldn't that time have been spent showing the world that TNA operated on its own with quality wrestling and not stirring more press for Hogan?
From the reports I read Genesis was a train wreck of epic proportions under Hogan's direction, and even with them taking away the six sided ring. Even the fans uttering this is bullshit. Some reports mentioning a few hundred people walking out on the show. That should give you a clue there that the fans who felt alienated by WWE, are now feeling alienated by TNA. And while its too early to reveal whether or not this will be the death of TNA, its definitely heading toward life support this early. Hogan, even with Bischoff's help should have never been given creative control given his track record. Hogan looks out for himself, and his buddies. Instead of TNA you're getting WCW 2.0 as I read a comparison to it some place else.
Die hard TNA fans should be in disgust, and revolting at the sight of Hogan and Bischoff turning TNA into anything other than a quality wrestling company. To try & silence your fans because you're not catering to them is beyond words. In an IGN interview Hogan says if you don't cater to the fans they'll go some place else. Even with this type of common sense, why is Hogan doing the opposite? I'll tell you why because of his track record. Hogan only looks out for himself, and those aligned with him. The guys who made TNA what it is today should feel like they're being over looked because they are. I agree that TNA needs to get back to basics. Don't over crowd your roster. Limit it, and can Hogan. He'll be the death of TNA, if they don't bring back what made TNA a true alternative.
