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 'Road Dogg' James is asking, and his insights offer a fascinating perspective on the current state of the company. In this article, I'll delve into James' thoughts and explore the implications for WWE's future.
The Mid-Card Conundrum
James' departure from WWE earlier this year was not just a personal choice but also a reflection of a deeper issue within the company. He felt that the focus on top-tier talent, while essential for drawing in the biggest crowds, had left little room for the mid-carders to develop and engage with the audience. In his words, "You can't just have a top guy and tell his title story, or girl and tell their title story – you've got to have some underneath stuff." This sentiment resonates with many wrestling fans who have grown tired of seeing the same faces in the main events, year after year.
What makes James' perspective particularly interesting is his comparison to Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), a developmental territory for WWE. OVW, under the leadership of Al Snow, is known for its diverse roster, which includes comedy, serious wrestling, and engaging title stories. James admires this approach, stating, "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." This variety, he believes, is what WWE needs to emulate.
The Importance of Storytelling
In my opinion, James' critique hits the nail on the head. WWE has long been criticized for its lack of long-term storytelling, with titles changing hands with alarming frequency. This not only disrupts the narrative but also leaves fans feeling disconnected from the characters. The company's focus on short-term, spectacle-driven matches can sometimes overshadow the importance of building a compelling story arc. As James suggests, "If every match is a god darn barn-burner and has 40 dives and 60 flips, like, what are we doing here?" This raises a deeper question: is WWE prioritizing spectacle over substance?
The Mid-Card's Role
The mid-carders play a crucial role in any wrestling promotion. They are the backbone of the show, providing the necessary contrast to the main events. As James points out, "That's what I think about. More of the show is mid-card than it is top guy." This is where WWE's current approach falls short. By neglecting the mid-card, the company risks alienating a significant portion of its audience, who crave engaging, character-driven stories. It's a delicate balance, as James acknowledges, "You've got to switch it up." But in my view, WWE has been too focused on the top stars, leaving the mid-card to wither.
Looking Ahead
As WWE continues to navigate the challenges of a post-pandemic landscape, it must find a way to integrate the mid-card into its programming. This could involve creating more opportunities for these performers to shine, perhaps through segment-based storytelling or by giving them more prominent roles in the narrative. In my perspective, WWE needs to embrace the diversity of its roster and recognize the value of every performer, from the top stars to the mid-carders. Only then can the company truly deliver a compelling and engaging product for its global audience.
In conclusion, Brian James' insights offer a critical perspective on WWE's current state. His comparison to OVW highlights the importance of variety and storytelling in wrestling. As WWE looks to the future, it must address the mid-card conundrum and find a way to integrate these performers into the narrative. Only then can the company truly deliver a compelling and engaging product for its global audience. Personally, I think WWE has the talent and the potential, but it needs to make some strategic shifts to get there.
