The WWE's Mid-Card Conundrum: A Veteran's Perspective
The world of professional wrestling is a complex tapestry, where storytelling and athleticism intertwine to create a unique form of entertainment. Recently, Brian James, known to fans as Road Dogg, shed light on an intriguing issue within the WWE—a promotion he was associated with for decades. His departure from the company, a decision he made to prioritize family, was preceded by a revealing interview on 'Busted Open Radio'.
James's insight is a fascinating glimpse into the backstage dynamics and creative decisions that shape the WWE's narrative. He highlights a problem that, in my opinion, is a critical aspect of the current WWE product: the lack of a compelling mid-card.
What does this mean? Well, in the WWE's hierarchy, you have your top stars, the main eventers, and then there's the mid-card, which is essentially the supporting cast. James argues that the WWE is suffering from a case of 'everyone's a star', where the mid-card is being overlooked in favor of pushing everyone as a top guy or girl. This, he believes, is detrimental to the overall show.
Personally, I find this observation particularly intriguing. The WWE, like any good story, needs a robust supporting cast to make the main characters shine brighter. Think of it like a movie; you need those memorable side characters to create a rich narrative. In wrestling, these are the mid-card wrestlers, providing variety and depth to the show. If everyone is a top star, the hierarchy becomes blurred, and the storytelling suffers.
James praises Al Snow's work in Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), where they maintain a 'variety show' approach. This includes comedy, serious wrestling, and multiple engaging storylines. It's a philosophy that keeps the audience engaged and the roster fresh. The WWE, he suggests, could benefit from a similar approach, focusing on the overall show rather than just individual barn-burners.
This raises a question about the current state of WWE's creative direction. Are they too focused on the main event scene, neglecting the mid-card that could provide a solid foundation for the entire show? It's a delicate balance, as the WWE has a vast roster to manage, but it's a balance that needs to be struck.
In my opinion, the mid-card is where you build future stars, create memorable moments, and keep the audience invested. It's the breeding ground for experimentation and innovation, allowing talent to develop and stories to evolve. By neglecting this aspect, the WWE might be missing out on the very essence of what makes professional wrestling so captivating.
Furthermore, the mid-card can often reflect societal trends and cater to diverse audiences. It's a space where you can have a bear riding a bicycle (as James humorously puts it) alongside serious title matches, appealing to a broad spectrum of fans. This variety is what keeps the WWE relevant and exciting.
In conclusion, Brian James's comments offer a valuable perspective on the WWE's creative strategy. The mid-card, often overlooked, is a vital component of the show's success. It's a reminder that in the world of professional wrestling, every character and storyline, no matter their position on the card, contributes to the overall spectacle. Perhaps it's time for the WWE to take a page from OVW's book and focus on building a stronger mid-card, ensuring a well-rounded and captivating product.
