Global Force Wrestling News: Anthem Problems, New Network, Jarrett, & More
Photo: TRP
It almost feels like we are back in the good old Dixie Carter/TNA days. The “real” problems between Anthem and Global Force Wrestling are continuing to come to light after the news that Chief Creative Officer Jeff Jarrett was taking an indefinite leave of absence from the company came out yesterday.
It’s being reported now that Anthem is apparently hemorrhaging money when it comes to GFW, and there’s the rumor that they are looking at actually selling the company. Since Jeff Jarrett still owns basically everything to do with GFW (the merger really didn’t happen like it was reported that it did), if Anthem did sell, they would be selling Impact Wrestling, not Global Force.
It’s also being reported that company officials and talent held multiple meetings on Tuesday to discuss the future of the company. Talent was informed that the company was still stable, despite Jarrett’s departure, but it looks like Anthem is wanting to rid itself of what it apparently sees as a bad investment.
At this point, though, who would buy the company? WWE? Maybe, but just for Network content, not to keep it running as a viable promotion. ROH? Again, possible; they would probably absorb the talent roster. Billy Corgan? Since he purchased the NWA name and assets earlier this year, one has to wonder if he would still want to take on Impact and all their issues.
Despite these reports, though, GFW and Anthem announced yesterday afternoon plans for expansion with several new ventures included.
Global Force Wrestling Announces Global Broadcast and Digital Expansion Initiatives
NASHVILLE | TORONTO – Global Force Wrestling, a subsidiary of Anthem Sports & Entertainment Corp., announced today numerous global and digital expansion initiatives, including:
* Plans to launch the Global Wrestling Network, a multi-platform digital service designed to give fans around the world instant 24-hour access to the extensive GFW and IMPACT libraries.
* Plans to launch the IMPACT Wrestling Channel on Pluto TV, a 24-hour live feed of content on the leading free over-the-top (OTT) television service in the U.S.
* Extension with Pop TV in the U.S. to continue airing its flagship weekly show IMPACT on Thursday nights at 8:00 p.m. ET.
* Distribution deal with 7Sports, the sport business unit of the ProSiebenSat.1 Group, to bring IMPACT back to screens in Germany, Austria and Switzerland via ran FIGHTING.
IMPACT showcases top professional wrestling stars such as GFW Champion Eli Drake, Bobby Lashley, the high-flying X-Division, the lovely and lethal Knockouts, including Sienna, Rosemary and Gail Kim, plus talent from international partner promotions such as Johnny Impact, Naomichi Marufuji and El Hijo del Fantasma. The 3,000+ hour library features household industry names such as Hulk Hogan, Ric Flair, Sting, Kurt Angle, Kevin Nash, Jeff Jarrett, AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, Bobby Roode and many more.
“These digital initiatives and broadcast agreements are a significant step forward for the Global Force Wrestling organization as we continue to expand the brand globally, making it available on more platforms and in more countries,” said Ed Nordholm, president of Global Force Wrestling. “Anthem is committed to broadening Global Force Wrestling’s footprint, as we work alongside international broadcast partners, digital platforms and professional wrestling promotions to bring our passionate fans a high-quality product that not only stands out in today’s media landscape, but continues to thrive into the future.”
At this point, with this company, I don’t think anyone (not even those involved) knows what the hell is actually going on.
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