Does WWE Still Want to Buy TNA?
By Josh.0
A recent WWE survey emailed to fans poses an interesting question.
Major media companies routinely send out surveys after big events asking viewers whether or not they enjoyed the program and if they would be interested in seeing similar products in the future. Market research isn’t a new phenomenon, but the advent of smartphones and the availability of the internet means that companies can gauge the pulse of the average viewer from places outside their home. This was the allure of the WWE Network in the first place.
The WWE Fan Council serves as the de facto market research tool for Vince McMahon. It is free to join and entices potential members with the promise of being “entered into a sweepstakes draw with a chance to win gift cards to the WWE Shop.” I have yet to win any of these so-called gift cards and until such time as I do this entry will be considered a ruse. According to the official website:
"The WWE Fan Council is a diverse and dynamic group of people sharing their thoughts on a wide range of WWE topics and initiatives. As a member, you’ll have the opportunity to voice your opinions and help us improve our services by answering short surveys."
The most recent email survey asked fans which promotions they would be interested in having access to on the WWE Network. The promotions listed were ICW, Next Generation Wrestling, Preston City Wrestling, All Star Wrestling UK, Progress Wrestling, PCW, WCPW, IPW UK, RevPro, and FutureShock Wrestling. It shouldn’t come as a surprise that all of these brands are located in the United Kingdom and represents the serious commitment WWE has to introducing American audiences to UK-style wrestling. TNA Impact Wrestling was also included as one of the choices, despite their recent purchase by Anthem Sports & Entertainment. This means that Vince McMahon’s company is at least still considering a purchase of TNA provided there is enough fan interest to warrant such a financial investment.
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This isn’t the first time WWE has asked for fan input in regards to a possible acquisition of TNA and/or it’s library of matches. Back in October 2016, the WWE asked fans if they would like “Access to independent wrestling content such as TNA & Ring Of Honor” featured on the Network. Vince isn’t blind to the resurgence of fan interest in TNA (thanks mostly to the Broken Matt Hardy angle) but it’s uncertain whether or not he’s willing to write a check. Perhaps if fans show enough interest we may revisit this story again in a few months.