Eric Bischoff is TNA’s ace in the hole. He has experience and confidence when it comes to competing with WWE. But Bischoff doesn’t have Turner Broadcasting’s checkbook. He doesn’t have the circumstances McMahon provided him on a silver platter when he let the contracts of several key WWE figures run out in a fashion akin to dominos falling. He doesn’t have the existing platform of a successful TV show. He has a lot of the key players from the nWo, but they’re 13 years older. His head writer has an antagonistic relationship with the man perceived as his top star.
It’s just not the same. When Nitro debuted in 1995, you could see a window. When the nWo invaded in 1996, you could see a window.
I just don’t see a window for TNA to compete. Never mind talent and resources, which TNA scandalously lacks – where’s the window?
Ask this when all the “surprises” debut on TNA’s program: What’s their value? Do Flair and Hogan go beyond nostalgia? Is Van Dam really a big star? What time do Hall and Waltman have to be back at Hazelden? What’s the plan? When will the plan take shape? Is there a plan?
I’m not sure there is. I certainly see no evidence thereof.
Success is wrestling is based on planning, promoting and executing. WWE signs Hart, works out a storyline, promotes his arrival and executes. TNA signed Hogan, and he’s going to be on TV, but what’s he going to do? What issues does he face? Give me a reason to watch.
TNA hasn’t. WWE has.
Mark Madden can be reached at wzmarkmadden@hotmail.com.
