In the world of professional wrestling, the recent departure of Road Dogg, a.k.a. Brian James, from WWE has sparked intriguing discussions about the state of the industry. James, a veteran wrestler and producer, left WWE on his own terms, citing a lack of appreciation and a desire to spend more time with his family. However, his comments on the current roster utilization and the need for diverse storytelling have shed light on a potential issue within WWE.
The Problem with WWE's Top-Heavy Approach
James believes that WWE's focus on top-tier storylines and matches has left the mid-card talent in the shadows. He emphasizes the importance of having engaging stories and entertainment throughout the show, not just at the top. This top-heavy approach, he argues, is what's currently hurting WWE.
"You can't just have a top guy and tell his title story... There's no mid-card entertainment? That's what I think about. More of the show is mid-card than it is top guy, so you've kind of got to go with that." - Brian James
This perspective is particularly interesting because it highlights a potential imbalance in WWE's creative direction. While top-tier matches and storylines are undoubtedly important, the mid-card talent often serves as the backbone of the show, providing variety and depth to the overall product.
Learning from OVW's Philosophy
James praises Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), currently run by former WWE star Al Snow, for its ability to keep things fresh and engaging. OVW's philosophy of telling multiple stories simultaneously and offering a variety of entertainment options is something James believes WWE could benefit from adopting.
"For people looking at OVW, they have a variety show... They have comedy, they have serious wrestling and title stories, they have a good women's division... You've got to switch it up." - Brian James
By comparing WWE to OVW, James draws attention to the potential benefits of a more diverse and inclusive storytelling approach. OVW's ability to cater to different tastes and interests by offering a mix of comedy, serious wrestling, and engaging title stories could be a model for WWE to follow, ensuring that all talent has the opportunity to shine.
The Need for Variety and Balance
James' comments also raise a deeper question about the nature of professional wrestling and its appeal to audiences. He questions the sustainability of a show where every match is a high-octane, high-flying spectacle, suggesting that variety is key to keeping audiences engaged.
"If every match is a god darn barn-burner and has 40 dives and 60 flips, like, what are we doing here? So you've got to think about the show in its totality." - Brian James
This perspective challenges the notion that more high-risk, high-reward matches automatically lead to better entertainment. It suggests that a well-rounded show, with a mix of styles and storytelling, is more likely to captivate and retain audiences.
Conclusion
Road Dogg's departure from WWE has sparked a thought-provoking discussion about the state of the industry. His insights into the importance of mid-card talent, diverse storytelling, and variety in wrestling shows offer a fresh perspective on how WWE could evolve and improve. While WWE has its own unique challenges and considerations, adopting a more balanced approach to storytelling, as exemplified by OVW, could potentially enhance the overall viewer experience and ensure the long-term success of the industry.
Personally, I think it's essential for wrestling promotions to continuously innovate and adapt their creative strategies to keep audiences engaged and excited. What many people don't realize is that the behind-the-scenes decisions and philosophies can have a massive impact on the overall product and its longevity.
