Thanks to Marty Hotts for sending in this recap:
On a fan question on his facebook, he was asked:
What do you think the chances are of seeing Diamond Dallas Page in TNA?
Eric: None
A fan commented on a Russo interview, and Bischoff replied:
Nick Graham Eric – I was reading an interview with Vince, and he said his goal was to write a show that appeals to the mainstream as opposed to just wrestling fans, as just wrestling fans is a small/limited market. My feeling is that those not interested in wrestling are not going to watch a show that prominently features a wrestling ring no matter how much it is geared to appeal to non-wrestling fans, and in the end that focus will drive away the core audience you guys build from, which is wrestling fans/fans who stopped watching after WCW folded/fans sick of the stagnant WWE. The philosophy strikes me as well intentioned, but in execution creates a show not wrestling-centric enough for wrestling fans, but still too wrestling centric for mainstream non-wrestling fans. What are your thoughts?
Eric Bischoff, Controversy
Very astute perspective. As always, things can be written in a certain way, or interpreted by the reader to mean something other than what was intended in the writers mind. I certainly don’t know what Russo was thinking and I didn’t read the comments, but generally there is a balance between satisfying the wrestling fan (both "hard core" and passive) and adding enough other elements to help broaden the audience. I’ve said before that professional wrestling is a bit like a buffet. You have to have a little bit of everything because not everyone in our audience likes the exact same thing, although the most vocal minority (internet fans) would lead you to believe otherwise.
Bryan Rose Hey Eric, hows it going? TNA need to leave Orlando. Its hard to tell if they are actually wrestling fans. It comes across really bad. Its stale. The only way to increase the ratings is to move into new markets. Take iMPACT on the road, the WWE wont have no chance in hell.
Eric Bischoff, Controversy
Your point is well taken and an important one. All things in good time!
Darcy Hines Hi Eric!…You’ve said in the past that before Nitro began you made a list of ways that it needed to be different from Raw in order to compete. Have you taken the same approach with TNA Impact?…All the best, can’t wait for March 8th! 🙂
Eric Bischoff, Controversy
We are indeed…work in progress! Stay tuned.
Todd Eck What’s up with that ramp to the ring? I mean, I know why it’s there to make the wrestlers seem more predominant walking above the crowd to the ring, but it cuts away from a lot of fan interaction down on the walkway and also cuts back on a lot of out of ring fighting as well.
Eric Bischoff, Controversy
Good point. There are always certain compromises one has to make in production situations. We are hoping the "overall" look and feel of the show benefits from the ramp. Thanks for your comment!
Danny Prodigy EZE, if Scott Hall behaves. Please give him a run at the TNA title. He’s messed up, yeah. However Scott Hall has done so much for the business. He deserves it, no matter how much heat he gets these days.
Eric Bischoff, Controversy
Its not about what people "deserve" based on past contributions or efforts, its about what any performer/athlete can deliver today! Its true in any sport/entertainment property and all walks of life (except those run by unions).
Derrick Grey stopped watching wrestling until your return. got me attached again! TNA needs Goldberg!
Eric Bischoff, Controversy
I spoke briefly to Bill a week ago, and while the subject of TNA did not come up, I sincerely doubt that Bill has any interest in getting back into the wrestling business. EB
Harry Barnett Ok well I think my first question would be despite the fact we know there are more changes in store from You & Hulk, on a scale of 1-10 (10 being good & 1 being bad) how satisfied are you personally with TNA at the stage you are currently at?
Eric Bischoff, Controversy
I’d say we are at about a 7 right now. Lots of work to do, but all is progressing well!
Nick was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and lived there until the age of 18, when he decided to pack his flack jacket and move to New York City.
