In the world of professional wrestling, where larger-than-life characters and dramatic narratives reign supreme, the art of storytelling is paramount. But what happens when the focus shifts too much towards the top stars, leaving little room for the mid-carders to shine? This is a question that former WWE producer and wrestler, Brian James (aka Road Dogg), has pondered, and his insights offer a fascinating perspective on the current state of the company.
James, who recently departed WWE after a long tenure, believes that the promotion is struggling with a lack of balance in its storytelling. He argues that WWE needs to embrace a more diverse approach, much like the philosophy employed by Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), a developmental territory for WWE.
"You can't just have a top guy and tell his title story, or a girl and tell their title story," James said. "You've got to have some underneath stuff." In his view, the current WWE roster lacks the depth and variety that OVW currently boasts. OVW, under the leadership of Al Snow, offers a mix of comedy, serious wrestling, and engaging title stories, creating a well-rounded show.
James' critique is not just about the lack of mid-card entertainment but also about the overall structure of WWE's programming. He suggests that WWE needs to think about the show as a whole, rather than focusing solely on the top-tier stars. "If every match is a god darn barn-burner and has 40 dives and 60 flips, like, what are we doing here?" he asks. This raises a deeper question: is WWE inadvertently stifling the creativity and storytelling potential of its mid-carders by overemphasizing the top guys?
From my perspective, James' comments highlight a critical issue in professional wrestling. The pressure to constantly deliver high-octane matches and dramatic storylines can lead to a homogenization of talent, where everyone becomes a top guy. This, in turn, can diminish the importance of the mid-card, which is essential for building a compelling narrative arc and creating a sense of anticipation among fans.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the contrast between WWE and OVW. OVW, with its diverse roster and varied storytelling, offers a blueprint for WWE to enhance its mid-card programming. By embracing a more inclusive approach, WWE could create a more engaging and dynamic experience for its fans, while also providing opportunities for its mid-carders to shine.
In my opinion, James' departure from WWE was not just a personal choice but also a reflection of a broader issue within the company. The fast-paced nature of WWE's storytelling may have contributed to his decision to leave, as he sought a more balanced approach to his career. This raises a question for WWE: how can they create a more sustainable and fulfilling environment for their talent, while also maintaining the high-energy narrative that fans love?
One thing that immediately stands out is the importance of storytelling diversity. WWE needs to recognize that a well-rounded show is not just about the top guys; it's about creating a narrative tapestry that includes a variety of characters and storylines. This is where OVW's philosophy can be a valuable lesson, as it demonstrates the power of a diverse roster and the impact it can have on fan engagement.
What many people don't realize is that the mid-card is not just a supporting act; it's a crucial component of a successful wrestling show. The mid-carders are the building blocks of a compelling narrative, providing the foundation for the top guys to shine. By neglecting this area, WWE risks creating a one-dimensional experience that fails to captivate its audience.
If you take a step back and think about it, the issue at hand is not just about Brian James' departure or WWE's current state. It's about the future of professional wrestling and the importance of storytelling diversity. WWE needs to embrace the OVW philosophy and recognize that a well-rounded show is essential for long-term success and fan engagement.
In conclusion, Brian James' comments offer a critical perspective on the current state of WWE. His insights highlight the importance of storytelling diversity and the need for a more balanced approach to talent utilization. As WWE continues to evolve, it must learn from the lessons of OVW and recognize the value of the mid-card, both for its talent and its fans. This is a key takeaway for the company as it navigates the challenges of the professional wrestling landscape.
