ONE OF THE BIGGEST SAGA’S IN WRESTLING LAST YEAR HAS NOW BEEN SETTLED.
The ownership, and even the future of Impact Wrestling was in question throughout 2016; even coming to a few points that many questions whether the promotion would survive the year. However, it now appears that there is light at the end of the tunnel in the Impact Zone.
In a press release from yesterday, Anthem Sports (owners of the Fight Network) have announced that they have acquired a majority stake in TNA Impact Wrestling, with Ed Nordholm becoming president of what will now be known as Anthem Wrestling Exhibitions, LLC. Dixie Carter will step down as Chairman of the Board and take an advisory position for a subsidiary, Fight Media Group, “where her focus will be on the global growth of the combat sports-related brands owned by Anthem”. She will remain a minority stakeholder in the company she’s been involved with since 2002.
Dixie Carter is quoted as saying:
Anthem has been a great partner for many years. We have worked hard to find the right company who would acquire TNA, use its strategic influence and have a long-term commitment to the brand. TNA’s incredible fans, talent and staff deserved to see the brand continue to thrive after 15+ years of incredible growth. I’m excited to move to a new position and work with Anthem on their global strategic plan, and I am confident TNA IMPACT Wrestling is going to be a huge part of their success.
Anthem have a lot to sort out following their aquisition. They need to replace the outgoing creative team of Billy Corgan and David Lagana, who left late last year. They also have the option to rebrand the ailing promotion, something many fans and pundits have been asking for.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fXDHtaBVnuw