On a recent edition of his “My World” podcast, WWE Hall of Famer Jeff Jarrett explained why TNA Wrestling never had a developmental system.
You can check out some highlights from the podcast below:
On Jim Cornette saying TNA needed a developmental system in 2009: “Well, the financials of starting a development can fluctuate enormously. But at this stage, independent wrestling had begun to get healthy. Obviously Ring of Honor is out there, and they have developed and brought a lot of guys in. And then you know, Japan’s promotions. Guys were getting work out there. We weren’t in a position financially to just start writing checks. It’s — the amount of money through the years at NXT, massive. But you know, there’s always a different lens to view that through. You look at — I mean, Major League Baseball is another set of circumstances that they’re going through right now… but, you know, Major League Baseball is whittling down their developmental system. They see more upside in theNIL and kids being developed in colleges. And not in AAA, AA, high single [A], low single, rookie and all that. So just kind of evolving with the times, that’s why I think in a lot of ways, me being a wrestling junkie has always kind of kept me in tune with different guys in different places, in different promotions all over the world. And I think because the cream truly — I believe this, I’ve been taught this, but I’ve seen it firsthand. The cream always rises, always rises to the top. If you’re good at this, and you’re gonna get work, and you’re gonna get buzz. No matter what level it is, you’re gonna keep going up and up and up.
“Again, we didn’t have the ability. But we kept our ears on the pavement and tried to hear about new things. Because you know, when I heard read that quote from Jim Cornette, I could plug in Jerry Jarrett, Jerry Lawler, so many different people. Because guys that book Dutch Mantel — I mean, Dusty. I can remember me and Dusty talking about the Asylum shows when he was driving up every week. And I would pick his brain on a Wednesday afternoon when I have just — I don’t say a lull in a spot. He would sit out in the arena and hold court, and entertain guys. And then other days, he would be into what he’s doing that night and whatever. But I can remember him just say, ‘All right, who you got coming up?’ That generation, we’ve talked a lot before we got going on the territory days. The way those promoters really kept going… is the turnover, the massive turnover in talent continually. And I think there’s a real upside. And when I look at AEW, the massive talent roster, I think there is a brilliance in it. Because it can keep people super, super, super fresh, and a constant turnover. And you know, there is so much upside. And historically speaking, that’s just how our business works. I mean, to Cornette’s quote, it’s easy to say we are a TNA or to have a developmental. It’s another thing to finance that thing. But there is truth in that.”
On being selective about taking risky moves: “I’ve got a ton of respect for guys that maybe go above and beyond, and take those kinds of risks. But again, I think at times, taking the crazy bump, high risk now — like I think, Mick Foley. I’ll just use the first one that comes to my mind. Fell off Hell in the Cell, a calculated risk. And he got carted out but came back and — you know. The carting out, he wove that into a story. So, it was a crazy bump but it was a part of the story. The thing that I’m thinking through now Comrad, as you say that, is that to take a high-risk move for the sake of taking a high-risk move? I think you’re shortchanging yourself, or maybe taking a shortcut yourself. And not really maximizing charisma, promos, storytelling, drama that you can build in the match without doing those.
“I get it, there’s a balance out there. But at the end of the day, thank the Lord that — I’ve had this viewpoint that was ingrained in me — people remember the moments of emotional attachment. A promo, a 1-2-3. Yes, they kind of care how you get there. They do, but they don’t. But they remember the emotional attachment as opposed to the guitar solo. I just — you know, they want to remember the hook of the song or whatever it may be. There’s so many different analogies you could bring together. But man, it’s a slippery slope, Conrad, because injuries can happen, as we all know, in an instant. And then you’re on the shelf for months at a time.”
Former TNA Wrestling owner Jeff Jarrett recently discussed why the promotion never had a developmental system during a recent episode of his podcast, “My World.” Jarrett shed light on the financial challenges and changing landscape of the wrestling industry that prevented TNA from establishing its own developmental territory.
Jarrett acknowledged that starting a developmental system requires significant financial investment, which TNA Wrestling couldn’t afford at the time. He pointed out that independent wrestling had begun to thrive, with promotions like Ring of Honor and Japanese promotions providing opportunities for up-and-coming talent. Instead of creating their own system, TNA kept an eye on the independent scene and scouted talent from various promotions worldwide.
Drawing a parallel to Major League Baseball’s evolving approach to player development, Jarrett emphasized the importance of adapting to the times. He noted that even MLB is reducing its developmental system and focusing more on college programs like the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). Jarrett believes that talented wrestlers will always rise to the top, regardless of the level they start at, and that buzz and recognition will follow those who excel in their craft.
While TNA Wrestling didn’t have the financial means to establish a developmental system, Jarrett highlighted the importance of staying connected to the wrestling community and being aware of emerging talent. He shared anecdotes about conversations with legendary figures like Dusty Rhodes, Jerry Lawler, and Dutch Mantel, who provided valuable insights into talent scouting and maintaining a constant turnover of talent.
Jarrett also praised All Elite Wrestling (AEW) for its massive talent roster, which he believes keeps the product fresh and exciting. He sees a brilliance in AEW’s approach, as it allows for constant turnover and provides opportunities for new stars to shine.
In addition to discussing TNA’s lack of a developmental system, Jarrett also touched on the risks involved in high-risk moves in wrestling. While he respects wrestlers who take daring risks, he believes that storytelling, charisma, and emotional attachment are equally important in creating memorable moments for fans. Jarrett cautioned against taking unnecessary risks solely for the sake of spectacle, as injuries can occur, leading to lengthy periods on the sidelines.
Jarrett’s insights provide a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges faced by TNA Wrestling and shed light on the decision-making process behind the promotion’s developmental strategy. As the wrestling industry continues to evolve, it’s crucial for promotions to adapt and find innovative ways to nurture and showcase emerging talent.