Time to get rid of the TitanTron and Stage

[Ambiguous Turd]

After watching Raw last night (on You Tube), I can not say how happy I was to see a Creative change with the entranceway. They ditched the stage and the Titan Tron. What a refreshing sight to see. It felt like I was actually watching a different show from what I've seen for about a decade now ... since this basic stage/Titan Tron setup began.

It was a nice throwback to the days of old. And I think even Jim Ross stated the same thing on his blog-- that it had "an old school feel to it." I can remeber the days back in the early 1990's when I began watching ... when wrestlers would come through the curtain and walk down the aisle on the floor, without there being a ramp. That look returned last night. Unfortunately, as that particular setup has been used for shows at MSG frequently, we don't know if it was just for that show, or if they are starting a new look for the entrance (complete with a new theme song for the show, as well).

We talked about WWE differentiating the look of each of their shows, and I definitely feel this would be a step in the right direction. Again, it makes it look like you aren't seeing the same show several times a week, like we do now with Raw, Smackdown, and ECW.

As far as the backstage segments, every arena has overhead monitors that can be used, such as for hockey. That can be used instead. Or there could be a small video screen used at the entrance, just like what WWE used back around 1992/1993.

To be frank, I was always a fan of the overhead banners that identified the shows as well, and would like to see them make a return to be hung on the light rig above the ring.

Just curious to get everyone's thoughts. Is it time to ditch the Titan Tron and current stage setup? Or should this one setup be kept for one or all of the shows, as it is now?

If you feel it should be changed, can you give us some thoughts on what type of a setup you would like to see?

Don't forget to tell us WHY you feel that the current entrance should stay or go in your posts, to avoid "spam".

 

[NSL]

I liked the old-school feel of the entrances, and it was capped off great with Jericho and Taker making their entrances. They played it great, and seeing the fans that close was nice. It's a lot easier to get into a show when you're close like that. It also made watching the matches look better. You're not distracted by the crowd in the background, there's just the ring action, and the walkway.

I'm thinking it was just for MSG though. I doubt they'll stick to it full time, with as much as Vince likes to set off pyros and have flashy lights.

 

[Lee]

I think it looked good simply because it is a bit different. I'd be up for a permanent change if it was just for one brand and not the others making a key difference. It did bring the fans closer as I felt the previous incarnation had way too big an aisle and almost secluded the fans at the side.

After all it gets more room for seats therefore more money for us stock holders

MODERATOR COMMENTS (Lord Sidious):

Hey, Lee. That's "Shareholders". Get the terminology right, if you're gonna quote from me, little man.

 

[CJ The Pirate]

I think everyone should just get over it to be honest... the look of the set is something that hardly even bothers me, most new set designs begin to get old very quickly anyway. I'm pretty puzzled as to why this one off event has garnered so much talk. The product is supposed to be about what happens in the ring isn't it... not what the tron looks like.

In response to the question, no... a big screen should and will remain part of all WWE broadcasts. There is much more action happening backstage than there used to be in the old days and when it does happen, the live audience can actually see what is happening very clearly. To remove the screen would be to force all those backstage segments into the ring which would take time away from actual wrestling which is what we pay to see.

 

[NSL]

There is much more action happening backstage than there used to be in the old days and when it does happen, the live audience can actually see what is happening very clearly. To remove the screen would be to force all those backstage segments into the ring which would take time away from actual wrestling which is what we pay to see.

In most arenas, there's a huge set of screens hanging in the middle of the arena. When they had the entranceway like they did last night, that is where they would show the backstage happenings.

If they got rid of the TitanTron and ramp, they could either get rid of backstage segments, and do it all in the ring, they way it should be, or they can show them on those screens hanging in the arena.

I don't a point in keeping the ramp and TitanTron. Changing it would be fresh, and it gives the guys (and Divas) more interaction with the fans. It's not a major move, and would probably lower production costs.

 

[Big Daddy Fool]

It was a nice change of pace from the giant stage and pyro. It brought a nice old school feel to the show. I liked when ECW had a similar setup when the brand was reintroduced to the WWE Universe. I felt like the fans were really into it as they were right on top of the action.

However, I don't think the WWE will do anything to the Titantron and stage because i believe they spent a decent amount of money building new stages to be compatible with the new HD setup they had. I believe the reason why the WWE used the old setup was because Sunday night there was a Metallica concert that went late the night before, and the Rangers have a home game tonight which would limit the amount of time the WWE had to set up and take apart the stage. From what I hear the WWE has a tougher time setting up their stage at the Garden because the building is old and wasn't built in a way compatible to the way the WWE needs to build their stage and when they are at the Garden it takes them longer to set everything up as compared to other buildings.

 

[Wolfdemon]

I really liked it.As stated before it had that classic feel to it.It was very refreshing to see that i really hope that they keep it like that at the least on RAW.

 

[Ambiguous Turd]

I think everyone should just get over it to be honest... the look of the set is something that hardly even bothers me, most new set designs begin to get old very quickly anyway. I'm pretty puzzled as to why this one off event has garnered so much talk. The product is supposed to be about what happens in the ring isn't it... not what the tron looks like.

In response to the question, no... a big screen should and will remain part of all WWE broadcasts. There is much more action happening backstage than there used to be in the old days and when it does happen, the live audience can actually see what is happening very clearly. To remove the screen would be to force all those backstage segments into the ring which would take time away from actual wrestling which is what we pay to see.

Earth to CJ. Earth to CJ. Come in, CJ.

As stated in the OP, and as NSL stated in his response to you, and as I am re-iterating ... pretty much every single arena in the country has a large scoreboard with a large screen on it, which is used for soccer/hockey ... and other indoor events. That screen is pretty much always in use anyway during the entire WWE show (in addition to the TitanTron), no matter which arena WWE is in.

So no, they aren't going to have to cut any backstage segments or anything like that if they got rid of the large, bulky stage and TitanTron.

That way, the classic feel of the talent coming down the aisle (without the ramp) can be brought back, and provide a much needed facelift to all the broadcasts.

 

[Mr. TM]

It was a nice throw back to MSG, but they use it for MSG because of some sort of an issue with the building. They used it for the Royal Rumble a year and a half ago at Royal Rumble 2008.

But overall, I prefer the stage, because it adds to the production value of the WWE product, that is the leader in the world of sports entertainment. And the Titantron is a big part of that as well. However, they really have to look to a company like DREAM and other Japanese MMA companies and view their entrances, because I view them as some of the best on earth, due to their animation.

Instead of taking a step back for nostalgia, they need to take a step forward.

 

[Blue Chipper]

I believe that the stage last night was exclusively for the MSG arena, where Royal Rumble 2008 was held. I guess it was just a coincidence that RAW debuted the new opening theme the same day they have a different stage.

I quite liked the set up. Firstly, like everyone has stated, it was a change. I also like that it didn't take up a bulk of space, so you naturally focus more on what's going on. It had some semblance of tradition as well. I would definitely be in favor of changing the stage into last night's, for a said stint. Not that the current stage is bad, it's fine in it's own right. A pro, to me, is that it shows the upcoming ppv. The MSG one, however, is better because the reasons stated above.

 

[johnbragg]

I think that the big stage, big ramp feels more big time. They have a little bit of space to operate in. Every major arena but MSG, it seems, can accommodate that. It also allows a few more combinations for promo-confrontations when a guy can come out and talk to the wrestler(s) in the ring from the top of the ramp, they can brawl on the ramp, etc.

I did like the flat-screens along the entrance ramp. That would be a good look for TNA, but that's another story.

Has the Titantron been used less lately? I can't remember a WWE story lately where someone in the ring has seen something happen via Titantron and reacted. For backstage events, the standard scoreboard screen is enough.

It was kind of an Attitude Era staple, things like HHH standing in the ring with Vince as the video of the drunken marriage to Stephanie rolled and Vince reacted in the ring. They don't do as much of that, and I don't think it would work that well, so maybe the Titantron's day is ending.

 

[INDYjon22]

I voted that I would like to see a change in the titantron into what they used at MSG, however I dont see it happening anytime soon. The way they did it at MSG is something that they do there quiet a bit. Just go check out Royal Rumble 2000, Royal Rumble 2008, or Wrestlemania 20. Thats just the way they always come out at that venue. I like it though, it seems more on the fans level then the superstars walking down. I don't really know how to explain it well but I do like the no titantron better. It has a better look an feel to it then coming down a ramp. It's like how UFC fighters used to walk down the ramp but now just stroll out through what could be the crowd. It makes them connect with the fans better and gives it a more legit fight feel.

 

[DiscipleofWrestling]

I voted for the old school format that we saw on the MSG Raw. To me, I liked the change of pace that it provided compared to the same "giant ramp, giant video" routine Raw's been on since 1997. I agree with some that WWE WILL NOT change the production for one show. However, it was nice.

If anything, I'd like to see a hybrid video/entrance way with the entrance from Monday combined with the video monitor used in 1992/1993/1994. It would offer some more unique camera views for the cameramen as the superstars could be walking past their own video instead of walking under it for a change.

My world won't come crashing down if WWE keeps the same routine, but I, for one, liked the change on Monday and hope to see it in the future, if only on select nights.

 

[Lancer]

My world won't come crashing down if WWE keeps the same routine, but I, for one, liked the change on Monday and hope to see it in the future, if only on select nights.

I have to agree with most here that WWE probably hasn't thrown away the use of the giant stage and video screen, that they spent millions of dollars building in preparation for the switch to HD.

I agree with the majority here and say the "throwback" set was a nice breath of fresh air. Every time WWE rolls into the Garden, whether it's for a PPV or a show, the product seems renewed and rejuvenated for that particular night.

I think the WWE will continue to use the other set, but switch back to this one occasionally, for their "going home" shows leading into PPVs, and for big nights like three-hour specials and such. And, of course, every time they come home to the Garden...

 

[lenguy]

i dont get why this has gained so much attention, i could really careless how the stage is set up, i really could. as much as i liked how it was set up on raw this past monday i really just dont care what the show looks like as long as it delivers. kind of a useless topic to discuss really.but what ever keeps you up at night.

 

[dbrdss]

im the type of guy thats not used to change, so naturally i prefer the stage and titantron. However I understand why people like the old school stage better: for one there is more interaction with the fans. My favourite reason is so the Undertaker's entrance isnt so long now.

I dont think they will keep the MSG set but if they do it wont bother me, ill get used to it.

Besides, im a smackdown fan

 

[Trill Co$by]

I voted for it to go to the old school style. And here's why.

Yes, as a fan of the old school entrances, I loved it. But that's not the only reason I voted that. You see, Vince McMahon is a business man. He thrives on more and more money. Why not make a smaller entrance way so that way you can get more fans into shows?

The only problem, though, is WWE Superstars. How are they going to work it as one show if there's three different set ups?

So while I'd want to see it go back to old school, and while it would be a great business move, I don't see it as a consistant stage.

 

[Joehaha]

i loved it personally but it wont stick. jericho worked his entrance well takers look good, dx had the best entrance of the night though with the 2 screendoors behind them in the background flashing it just looked really good in my opinion.

 

[Felderino]

Not had the chance to see raw yet this week, but I was thinking about the titantron the other day and I think it actually detracts from the crowds interaction with whats going on in the ring.

Whenever someone comes down to the ring to cut a promo instead of paying attention to the wrestler alot of the crowd seem more interested in seeing themselves on the titantron!

Just watch next time, you'll see the idiots in the crowd flailing their arms trying to get on TV.

So I think getting rid of the titantron would be nothing but a good thing, maybe people in the crowd can actually pay attention to whats happening and produce a decent atmosphere in the arena like the old days, instead of the dead crowds we seem to have today.

 

[Suneeboy]

First of all, I was at the show and it was amazing to say the least. Go to a televised event at MSG at least once in your lifetime. It is a must for any wrestling fan. It's like a Muslim making their pilgrimage to Mecca.

The old school entrance is used for MSG because MSG is one of the few arenas that is a guaranteed sellout every time. The titan tron kills about 4,000-6,000 seats. They also were going for an old school feel, but why lose out on at least 4k tickets at 75-45 a pop?

If you watched the MSG Smackdown last year you will see that they can bring the Titantron into the Garden, but in retrospect they probably said it makes no sense to eliminate seats in the arena with hottest crowd. PPV's don't get as hot as this Monday's RAW was. I didn't see how it came out on TV yet, but based on what I'm reading it looked amazing, refreshing, and dare I say...INTERESTING. The wrestlers were definitely feeding off of us.

I would love to see the old school entrance for RAW but I don't think that will happen. Not all arenas can be 100% sold out every night and it looks bad to see empty seats on Live TV. You can do this at MSG. You can't do this in Mobile, AL.

 

[People's Champ]

I think everyone understands why it was done. I for one enjoyed it. It was a refreshing change to the show. That exact look they have for MSG is what they should be using now. With the new Raw theme they have, a change in the entrance as well would be good. I understand it will be hard to sell out every arena but it gives WWE a chance to freshen things up. It was a good look that I would definitely like to see be a permanent change.

 

[ThegameBigB1222]

I do not think WWE will go back to the old school style entrances except for places like MSG where they know they will sell it out. Detroit for example is a major sport for WWE and they cant even sell out monday night raws and smakcdowns and have to tape off protions of the arena.

Having the tron cuts out proabably good 3,000 seats that they dont have to sell and than can advertise a sell out if they do get one.

Not until the popularity comes back would this hold a chance of occuring with the the old style entrances or house show entracnes if you will.

 

[Ambiguous Turd]

I voted for it to go to the old school style. And here's why.

Yes, as a fan of the old school entrances, I loved it. But that's not the only reason I voted that. You see, Vince McMahon is a business man. He thrives on more and more money. Why not make a smaller entrance way so that way you can get more fans into shows?

The only problem, though, is WWE Superstars. How are they going to work it as one show if there's three different set ups?

So while I'd want to see it go back to old school, and while it would be a great business move, I don't see it as a consistent stage.

For the purposes of this thread, we're going to try to refer to what we saw at MSG as a "setup" to avoid confusion. When one thinks of a stage, they think of a large platform with a ramp, like we are accustomed to seeing.

But as far as Superstars, Superstars should have its own small particular setup, as well. That way, they can easily change the setups in between the broadcasts. Same with Smackdown and ECW.

Judging by the looks of the poll, I think people are ready for a change ... and the same big bulky look of the shows has worn thin on everyone. I long for the days where we had talent that actually walked from the setup and down the aisle, to the ring, without having to be on a stage or walk down a ramp.

As far as the "sell-outs", I don't think quite a few of the announced sell-outs are actually sellouts anyway. It must have been a problem, because WWE reportedly came up with a new policy of only announcing sellouts when they were legitimate. So obviously, they were doing that in the past.

But the TitanTron and stage does take up a lot of space to knock out seats that WWE would otherwise have to sell. I just don't think they should be concerned as much with announcing "sell-outs" as they should be about focusing on providing a good product ... which also includes giving each of their shows facelifts. You do what you're supposed to do and entertain the audience, then the sell-outs will come naturally.

 

[Dragonslayer]

I really don't see this as a change back to a more old-school way of doing things... why would WWE switch to the new Tron/Stage sets only a few years back to accomodate the new HD-TV boom, only to drop the whole "big show" feeling altogether months later?

No, I think this was only done to create some more space for seats in MSG, but probably won't be kept up in the future.

However I do agree it would be nice if the sets were a little different for each of the shows, much like the old RAW setup looked more like the current one, but Smackdown had the Fist-Setup... I think especially for ECW, the tuned-down look could add to the feeling of "Extreme Championship Wrestling"... but to be honest, I guess they'll just keep the big sets as they are.

 

[Kenny Powers]

After watching ECW last night, it appears that WWE will still use the Titan Tron. I'm not sure if they will use it for Smackdown and Raw as well, but since they were using it at ECW it looks like Smackdown will be the same way.

Raw could be different though. I think it would not only benefit WWE with their increased gain in audience members, I think it will benefit the audience as well. Seats won't sell out, and the arena will have that old school feel to it. I never understood how the ring could be so small and the Titan Tron be so enormous. When I went to Raw shows the Titan Tron was very distracting and a lot of times I couldn't even watch the action or see the wrestlers because of it.

Some people prefer watching the Tron but why? if you are there live why would you want to watch the Tron when you can watch the action live in the ring. Even if you have nose bleed seats you can still see the action. Raw has a new theme and set up now, they should have a new entrance set up without the ramp and titan tron.