In the world of professional wrestling, the recent departure of Brian James, better known as Road Dogg, from WWE has sparked an intriguing discussion about the state of the industry. James, a veteran of the ring, 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 the WWE's creative direction.
The Problem with WWE's Top-Heavy Approach
James, in an interview with "Busted Open Radio," highlighted a problem that many wrestling fans and experts have noticed: the WWE's focus on top-tier talent and title stories at the expense of mid-card entertainment. He believes that this approach is detrimental to the overall show, as it leaves little room for diverse storytelling and character development. In his words, "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."
This top-heavy approach, according to James, makes everyone seem like a "top guy," leaving little room for the mid-card wrestlers to shine and develop their characters. As a result, the show becomes predictable and lacks the variety that keeps audiences engaged.
Learning from OVW's Philosophy
In contrast, James praises Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), currently run by former WWE star Al Snow, for its fresh and engaging approach. OVW, he says, offers a "variety show" with comedy, serious wrestling, title stories, and a strong women's division. This diverse programming, James believes, is what WWE officials could learn from. He emphasizes the need for variety, stating, "You've got to switch it up."
The Importance of Variety and Pacing
James' commentary on the need for variety extends beyond just the storylines. He questions the pacing and style of matches, suggesting that every match cannot be a high-octane, high-flying affair. He argues that this approach may lead to audience fatigue and a lack of appreciation for the athleticism and skill on display. In his opinion, "If every match is a god darn barn-burner and has 40 dives and 60 flips, like, what are we doing here?"
A Broader Perspective
From my perspective, Road Dogg's insights offer a valuable critique of the current state of professional wrestling. The industry, especially WWE, has a tendency to focus on a few top stars, often at the expense of developing a deep and diverse roster. This approach may lead to a lack of long-term sustainability and audience engagement. By learning from OVW's philosophy and embracing a more varied approach, WWE could potentially create a more engaging and entertaining product.
What many people don't realize is that wrestling, like any form of entertainment, requires a delicate balance of storytelling, character development, and performance styles. It's not just about the big moments and high-profile matches; it's about creating a compelling world that audiences want to invest their time and emotions in. Road Dogg's comments serve as a reminder of this often-overlooked aspect of professional wrestling.
