Archive Interview: Valerie E. Wyndham (SoCal Val)

(originally published 11/2/04)

A Florida-based manager who has worked for many indy promotions in the Sunshine State, Valerie E. Wyndham has also worked for TNA, took part in Randy "Macho Man" Savage's wrestling promotion featured on the Internet at MachoMan.com, and works for Women's Extreme Wrestling.

Q: How long have you been involved in the business?

A: 3 fabulous years.

Q: Why did you enter the pro-wrestling industry?

A: I was positively addicted to watching it and after going to a few live shows I realized I loved being around it. There is never a dull moment!

Q: Where did you receive your training to become a ringside manager?

A: When people ask who trained me to become a manager my response is that I learned from the best in the business. The way I learned is mainly by studying tapes. Be it Sherri Martel or Stephanie McMahon, it's crucial to study those who have come before you. As far as professional training goes, I don't think there is a real way to train a manager. Perhaps you could go through the motions, but the most important thing beside the strong desire to learn and perfect your craft, is having that 'it' factor. It cannot be taught. You either have it or you don't.

Q: What do you like the most about being in the business?

A: I love everything about it. There is a lot of drama to go through, especially dealing with the labels that are placed on females, but the feeling of knowing you did a good job and contributed to a show in a positive way makes everything worth it. Sometimes all it takes to motivate you is knowing you made one fan's night.

Q: One of the promotions that you work for is Women's Extreme Wrestling, which presents itself as an alternative form of pro-wrestling, and has a target audience of 21 and older. Do you prefer working for this style of promotion, or do you prefer working for family-oriented promotions?

A: In my case it really doesn't matter much, as I have limits about what I will and will not do. My character is never too risque, so I'm able to work for whomever, wherever with the same approach to entertaining.

Q: Which persona appeals to you the most: Face, Heel, or Tweener?

A: Heel. Wrestling fans are made up mostly of young men, so as a female it's definitely more of a challenge to get the crowd to hate you.

Q: What is your gimmick?

A: It is based primarily on Missy Hyatt's old-school, prissy, "rich bitch" persona.

Q: Whom has been your favorite talent to work with as a manager so far?

A: I have a few favorites such as Scoot Andrews, Steve Corino and Frankie Kazarian. What makes someone a good client is when they genuinely appreciate you and view you as an important part of the match. They use you properly and take the time to present you as something more than just arm candy. The aforementioned gentlemen are a manager's dream to work with.

Q: Whom would you like to ringside manage, that you have not yet done so for?

A: I could give you a mile-long list of who I'd like to manage, but I will narrow it down to Shawn Michaels and/or Triple H. They are my favorites.

Q: You have worked for TNA in the past. Are you interested in returning to TNA, or perhaps working for WWE?

A: I would love to work for either. Both if possible! I had a very positive experience working with TNA. I can definitely see myself having fun there and learning a lot. The same goes for WWE.

Q: What has your involvement been with Randy Savage's website, MachoMan.com?

A: At one time, MachoMan.com featured full wrestling matches you could view online on Randy Savage's website. The tapings were filmed in Tampa, Florida with an awesome looking set and had a great group of people behind it. I managed a tag team from South Florida called "The Vandalz" consisting of Tommy and Ricky Vandal. My experience working so closely with Randy Savage is something I will always remember.

Q: Have you are ever wrestled, or considered doing so?

A: I have had some basic wrestling training and do wrestle occasionally. I enjoy wrestling when I am given the chance but prefer a good catfight or a themed match (Lingerie, Evening Gown, etc.) as opposed to anything too technical.

Q: What do you do in your spare time?

A: Surprisingly enough, I love to shop. I take fashion very seriously and am still modeling professionally.

Q: What is your long-term goal in the business?

A: I'd simply like to be performing to the best of my abilities. Wherever that may be.

The Legacy of the Motor City Machine Guns

The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin), the tag team that is considered by many fans to be the best in the industry, recently saw the end of a full-time run under the WWE banner, and now fans and members of the industry alike are anticipating their next move. To understand why there is so much buzz right now, one only has to look at the Guns' accomplishments and contributions to the industry through the years.

Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin were TNA originals who did not receive the attention that they deserved over the years, with X Division Championship reigns being their biggest accomplishment. Shelley and Sabin finally discovered their TNA niche in 2007, when they were united as The Motor City Machine Guns and eventually won the TNA World Tag Team Championship.



As WWE Tag Team Champions, three-time TNA World Tag Team Champions, ROH World Tag Team Champions, IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champions, NJPW STRONG Openweight Tag Team Champions, and the holders of many other championships internationally, the Motor City Machine Guns have been a dominant force in almost every notable promotion they have been in. With a combination of chemistry, innovation, technical moves, and high-flying maneuvers, the Guns have been show stealers on more than one occasion.



One of the highlights of the Motor City Machine Guns being a part of the SmackDown brand was their matches with #DIY, Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa. Although Ciampa had not been in the ring with the Guns before then, Gargano teamed with former XPW World Tag Team Champion Josh Prohibition to wrestle them at an independent event in 2007. Gargano had also wrestled Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin in singles matches. But the October 2024 Motor City Machine Guns vs. #DIY match was the first.



Another highlight was the Motor City Machine Guns' match with The Bloodline, Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa. The Motor City Machine Guns appeared in NJPW during the time that Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa were wrestling for them regularly, but the two teams had never faced off. During Tama Tonga & Tonga Loa’s time in NJPW, they held the IWGP Tag Team Championship a record seven times, gaining them the reputation of being a great tag team. With the Guns having an exceptional reputation as well, this match taking place for the first time in their careers was exciting for fans. The Guns captured the WWE Tag Team Championship in this match.



Additionally, Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin, seasoned veterans of the ring, had matches with Austin Theory & Grayson Waller, rising stars who were still early in their careers. The matches between the Motor City Machine Guns and A-Town Down Under were valuable learning experiences for Theory and Waller.



It's also worth noting that before joining WWE full-time in October 2024, Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin both worked with WWE in the past. In 2019, they were guest coaches at the WWE Performance Center on separate occasions.

I love wrestling. I am the Multiple Man of the industry: a thousand lives inna thousand different places. Thanks everyone who helped me get this far. pic.twitter.com/t2VKTpnUL6

— @Lx $helley (@AlexShelley313) October 22, 2019

In addition, in 2020, Alex Shelley teamed with Kushida for NXT live events and as a participant in that year’s Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic tournament.

The Parallel Journeys of AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi

The winter of 2026 will forever be remembered as the season that two of the most talented wrestlers laced their boots for the final time. One was AJ Styles, who proved himself over and over again by dominating in major companies internationally as a two-time former WWE Champion, a WWE Grand Slam Champion, a two-time former TNA World Champion, and a two-time former IWGP Heavyweight Champion. The other was Hiroshi Tanahashi, an icon who has been at the forefront of NJPW during very important times, cementing his place as one of the most respected wrestlers in Japanese wrestling.

In the span of just twenty-seven days, the professional wrestling landscape lost two of its most resilient foundations. On January 4, 2026, at NJPW Wrestle Kingdom 20, Hiroshi Tanahashi wrestled his last match in the Tokyo Dome, where he had many classic contests during his career, with him being considered one of the greatest performers in Tokyo Dome history, headlining a record 11 NJPW January 4 Tokyo Dome shows. Less than a month later, on January 31, AJ Styles threw up the P1 on his gloves one more time in the center of the ring at WWE Royal Rumble 2026.

Their careers ended on opposite sides of the globe, but their journeys were remarkably parallel. More than wrestlers, one was the Ace of Aces, while the other was Phenomenal in every one of his matches, and both of them were top-tier, foundational, and generation-defining performers for major companies.

To understand why their retirements feel so linked, we have to go back to exactly twenty years. Before AJ Styles became "The Face That Runs the Place" in WWE or Hiroshi Tanahashi became the Ace of NJPW, they crossed paths in a TNA ring.

In January 2006, at TNA Final Resolution, Hiroshi Tanahashi made his first appearance in an American pro-wrestling company. He faced AJ Styles in a special attraction between two wrestlers who were established stars in their respective companies.



The most cited matches between AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi took place in 2014 and 2015. Styles joined NJPW and adapted to the company's unique style of intense, action-packed, fast-paced matches, and Tanahashi was one of his frequent opponents.

At King Of Pro-Wrestling on October 13, 2014, Hiroshi Tanahashi defeated AJ Styles to win his record-breaking 7th IWGP Heavyweight Championship, in a match that was considered the best of that year by many fans. It can be seen in its entirety via the NJPW World streaming service.

AJ Styles reclaimed the IWGP Heavyweight Championship on February 11, 2015, at The New Beginning in Osaka, in a match that became bloody. You can see it in its entirety on NJPW World here.

The match between AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi on August 14, 2015, at G1 Climax 25 is considered a masterpiece by many fans, and can be seen on NJPW World. The G1 Climax tournament reached a new level of international recognition that year, and Tanahashi was the winner of this match, securing his place in the finals and going on to win the tournament.

The AJ Styles vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi matches in 2014 and 2015 made both men fully realize that they speak the same in-ring language, as their seamless chemistry was proof of it. Styles and Tanahashi have expressed immense mutual respect, praising each other as one of the best in the world.

Something very noteworthy about their dual retirements is what their farewell tours were like. With WWE's current administration allowing Superstars more input into their characters and how they are used, and with Hiroshi Tanahashi now the President and Representative Director of NJPW, both he and AJ Styles could have spent their final months as professional wrestlers in the center of the spotlights of their respective companies, and they earned the right to do so. However, neither one of them did that.

Hiroshi Tanahashi spent his final year having more tag team matches than singles matches, helping newer generations of wrestlers grow and evolve. Meanwhile, AJ Styles focused on tag teaming as well, becoming WWE World Tag Team Champions with Dragon Lee, helping elevate Lee to his first championship on the WWE main roster.

Also, the events where AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi's pro-wrestling careers concluded are equally symbolic, full-circle events. After headlining a record 11 Tokyo Dome main events, Tanahashi finished his legendary 26-year career at that same venue, which he helped rebuild. Meanwhile, Royal Rumble is the same event where AJ Styles made his WWE debut 10 years earlier, beginning one of the most dominant and decorated WWE careers of the modern era.

With AJ Styles and Hiroshi Tanahashi now moved on from full-time in-ring competition, the statistics -the championships, the merchandise sales- although notable, matter less than the example they set, that pro-wrestlers can follow. Styles and Tanahashi proved that blending technical wrestling and psychology with high-paced athleticism is a key to success in the pro-wrestling industry.

The Evolution of the Survivor Series Match Format

For nearly four decades, the Survivor Series elimination tag team match format has been the most resilient and adaptable gimmick match in WWE history. Over the years, WWE has continuously adapted this format to fit the current product, shifting the match's purpose from pure team competition to territorial warfare, and finally, to the brutal, high-impact spectacle of WarGames. Five key phases have shaped its legacy.

Phase 1: The Beginning - Pure Survival (1987–1991)

The original Survivor Series format was centered entirely on the concept of team allegiance and sole survivors. In fact, "Teams of five strive to survive!" was the tagline for Survivor Series events.

The initial shows were characterized by large teams (often 4-on-4 or 5-on-5) composed of allies united against rivals. Each member of a team was engaged in a feud with a member of the opposing team, and the main goal for a competitor was to not be eliminated.

This era emphasized safety in numbers. If a team lost a member early, it was a massive, potentially unconquerable setback, forcing the surviving members to fight a strategic numbers game. A perfect example from the 1987 inaugural Survivor Series event is the match featuring five-man teams led by Hulk Hogan and André the Giant, where their missions were to be the larger-than-life alliance that survived the night.



The inaugural Survivor Series in 1987 and the subsequent event in 1988 were composed entirely of these elimination tag team matches- no singles matches, no title matches, and no other gimmick matches. The entire show's foundation was built on this one distinctive elimination concept.

Phase 2: The Attitude Era Detour - A Change of Focus (1998-2002)

In the late 1990s, WWE began to occasionally deemphasize or completely drop the traditional elimination matches from its Survivor Series event in favor of focusing on singles/tag team feuds and gimmick matches. The traditional match was absent from the show twice during this period.

The 1998 Survivor Series was the first one to not feature the traditional elimination tag team match, instead featuring "Deadly Game", a one-night, single-elimination tournament for the vacant WWE Championship. Although featuring elimination matches, the focus was entirely on tournament brackets.

Similarly, the 2002 Survivor Series did not include a traditional elimination tag team match; instead it hosted the debut of the Elimination Chamber. The unique structure was an immense, circular steel cage that enclosed the ring, measuring 16 feet high and 36 feet in diameter, and weighing over 10 tons. The floor surrounding the ring was a hard steel grate, and there were four inner pods with plexiglass for the competitors to await their turn. Two Superstars started the match, and a new participant was released from a pod every five minutes.



Traditional elimination tag team matches were held at the 1999, 2000, and 2001 events, with the most notable being the epic "Winner Takes All Survivor Series Elimination" 5-on-5 match between Team WWE and The Alliance in 2001. This shows that while the main focus sometimes shifted away, the tag team elimination concept was never completely unused in this era.

Phase 3: Bragging Rights & Monumental Stakes (2003–2016)

The WWE brand split began in 2002, and the traditional elimination tag team match format returned in 2003 with a new purpose: superiority. Revived as the ultimate contest between the Raw and SmackDown brands, it had new weight, as the team matches were booked to decide which brand would have bragging rights. The motivation wasn't personal; it was about being superior.

In addition, sometimes it was about control. An example is Team Bischoff vs. Team Austin (2003), which used the elimination match as a clear, high-stakes competition with major consequences: If Team Bischoff wins, Raw co-general manager Steve Austin loses his job, while Eric Bischoff retains his general manager position. This match proved that the format still held powerful, dramatic potential.


It's also worth noting that in this era, a sole survivor sometimes moved up the card in the near future- Randy Orton went from being a sole survivor at Survivor Series 2003 to becoming World Heavyweight Champion in 2004.

The 2010 Survivor Series event was the last one held under the first brand extension (which ended in August 2011), temporarily ending Raw vs. SmackDown-themed matches at Survivor Series for five years until the brand split was reintroduced in 2016. Nonetheless, at least one traditional elimination tag team match was booked annually.

Phase 4: The Final Evolution (Part 1)- WarGames (2022–Present)

The most significant change in the format came in 2022 when WWE permanently replaced the traditional elimination tag team match with WarGames as the headline attraction. WarGames is a multi-person steel cage match that takes place inside a large, rectangular cage surrounding two rings side-by-side. The match, originally created by Dusty Rhodes, features two or more teams (at least three members each) that start with one competitor from each side, followed by an entry process where teams alternate sending in a new member every few minutes, creating temporary numerical advantages. The match does not officially begin until all competitors have entered the cage, a period historically known as "The Match Beyond," and can only be won by pinfall or submission. In WWE, the WarGames match is now the featured attraction of the annual November Premium Live Event, Survivor Series: WarGames.

This shift signifies a complete change in priority for the modern PLE. The WarGames format guarantees a cage-surrounded, high-risk phenomenon. The goal moves from strategic eliminations to the drama of the entry process, violence, and cage spots.



Guaranteeing a high-energy show, WarGames is a huge draw- Survivor Series 2023 drew 17,138 fans to the Allstate Arena in Chicago and had a $2.24 million gate, which broke the Survivor Series gate record that was set in 2021. It marks the end of the traditional Survivor Series elimination tag team match as the event's main focus.

Phase 5: The Final Evolution (Part 2) - Cross-Promotional Warfare (2025)

The brand superiority concept that defined the Survivor Series match for over a decade has found a fresh, external utilization in 2025, as a result of the now-fractured relationship between WWE's NXT brand and TNA. The October 7th WWE NXT SHOWDOWN event will be a sanctioned inter-promotional war built entirely around the classic Survivor Series-style elimination tag team match. There will be two 5-on-5 elimination matches -one for the men and one for the women- pitting members of the NXT roster against members of the TNA roster.

This represents the ultimate expression of the "superiority" concept. It moves beyond internal WWE brands and uses the elimination format to settle a dispute between two entirely separate companies. The concept transforms the match from something to be utilized as an annual internal rivalry into the supreme battle for cross-promotional bragging rights and superiority.

Three Essential Opponents for AJ Styles' Retirement Run

AJ Styles has publicly stated that he plans to retire in 2026, which means the wrestling world is due for one of the greatest farewell tours in history. A final run isn't only about the matches- it's about the narrative.

Not only is AJ Styles one of the most popular and talented wrestlers in the world, but he has proven himself over and over again by dominating in major companies internationally. Styles is a two-time former WWE Champion, a WWE Grand Slam Champion, a two-time former TNA World Champion, and a two-time former IWGP Heavyweight Champion.

For a career as vast as The Phenomenal One's, his final opponents should symbolize his journey. I believe the perfect finale requires three matches, one representing the future of the industry, one being a wrestler Styles has a lot in common with, and one being a wrestler he has a past with.

Here are the three men AJ Styles should face on his way out.

1. Leon Slater

Leon Slater recently became the youngest TNA X-Division Champion in history, and he had an interaction with AJ Styles, who returned to TNA and gave Slater a major endorsement after his victory.


It was a symbolic passing of the torch moment, showing the impact Styles, the inaugural TNA X-Division Champion and eventual face of the company, has had on a wrestler like Slater, a young, top member of the TNA X-Division, with the best years of his career ahead of him. While Styles and Slater were in the ring together, at one point, the TNA fans chanted, "One more match!", and when Styles was interacting with the crowd before leaving the ring, he could be heard saying, "I hope we get that match." Clearly, AJ Styles vs. Leon Slater is a match that Styles wants, and it would be a highlight of Slater's career.

2. Rey Mysterio

AJ Styles and Rey Mysterio are very similar, two respected veterans who achieved main event success and World Championship reigns, with Mysterio being a former WWE Champion, a two-time former World Heavyweight Champion, and a WWE Grand Slam Champion. Styles has excellent high-flying skills, while Mysterio is an iconic figure of lucha libre, a style known for its aerial artistry. The fact that two wrestlers of their levels of status, whose careers overlapped significantly, have only had four singles matches wit each other (three in WWE and one in the UK) is widely considered a significant missed opportunity, especially since Styles and Mysterio have complete respect for each other, and both have spoken highly of the other as a performer. This retirement run will be the last chance for another AJ Styles vs. Rey Mysterio match.

3. CM Punk

It is well-documented that AJ Styles and CM Punk have had issues with each other that have nothing to do with WWE, so a Styles-Punk match would be of great interest to fans. In June of this year, during a "Triple Threat" match between Styles, Punk, and El Grande Americano, a moment of sportsmanship was shown between Styles and Punk, as they shook hands in the ring. This shows that there is respect between the two of them, and that perhaps the issues have been squashed.

Nonetheless, the flames of interest in a singles match between AJ Styles and CM Punk were ignited many years ago, and it's not going to be satisfied unless it happens before they both retire, which means in Styles' case, before the end of 2026. Although they have had many singles matches with each other in the past (including in ROH, NWA NLW, and IWA MS), a match between the two of them in WWE would be very different. Styles and Punk are not the same people that they were back then. Over 20 years ago, Styles and Punk were two hungry young wrestlers wanting to earn respect, using everything in their movesets to prove a point. Today, AJ Styles and CM Punk are established veterans. A singles match between them would not be about a position on the roster and their place on the card. Instead, it would be about their legacies, on a platform where the spotlight is brighter and the pressure to deliver is greater. A singles encounter in WWE would be more refined and strategic, where every near fall and signature move carries the dramatic finality of a chapter ending, reflecting their standing as main eventers who know how to utilize the grand stage.

AJ Styles' final run demands opponents who reflect his decades of dominance. These three matches, regardless of outcome, would be the final, Phenomenal chapters in one of the greatest careers in professional wrestling history.

Hulk Hogan: An Unparalleled Legacy in Professional Wrestling

The wrestling world, and indeed the broader landscape of popular culture, mourns the passing of Hulk Hogan, a titan of the industry. His influence was so impactful that it's difficult to imagine professional wrestling as we know it today without his groundbreaking contributions. From the experience of Hulkamania to his revolutionary turn as "Hollywood" Hulk Hogan, he consistently captured the attention of millions, transcending the squared circle to become a global phenomenon.

This post aims to reflect on the unparalleled career of Terry Bollea, the man behind the red and yellow, and later, the black and white. It's a look back at how one man's charisma, showmanship, and business awareness reshaped an entire entertainment genre.

Hulk Hogan's Monumental Career: A Retrospective

Hulk Hogan’s complete impact on the pro-wrestling industry will never be duplicated. Upon winning his first WWE Championship in January 1984, Hogan set a foundation that began a revolution in the wrestling industry, as he captured the attention of wrestling fans (as well as created new wrestling fans) with incomparable showmanship and delivered promos that sold out venues worldwide. As the main face of WWE, Hogan took the company into the mainstream and helped to turn the pro-wrestling industry into a major business.

While in WWE during his first run, Hulk Hogan headlined eight of the first WrestleMania events, with WrestleMania III in 1987 being the largest-attended one, where he defeated Andre the Giant moments after delivering the slam that was heard around the world. This event is the second-largest attended WrestleMania in history.

Hulk Hogan faced Andre the Giant in a 1988 rematch on “The Main Event,” which was broadcast live on NBC-TV and drew 33 million viewers, the largest viewership for a televised pro wrestling event in American history.

By the time Hulk Hogan had completed his first run in WWE, Hogan had become WWE Champion five times, with his first reign being the third-longest in history to date. During Hogan’s second run in WWE, he captured the championship a sixth time.

After Hulk Hogan’s first run in WWE, he eventually went to WCW, where he revolutionized the pro-wrestling industry for a second time. As the leader of the New World Order (nWo) faction, which is still popular to this day, Hogan’s presence drew high viewership numbers, attendance figures, and PPV buyrates.

In 1997, Hulk Hogan main-evented Starrcade, which has gone down as the highest-grossing PPV event in WCW’s history. On July 6, 1998, he main-evented “WCW Monday Nitro” in front of an attendance of 41,412 fans, the largest live-televised crowd for a non-PPV in history.

Hulk Hogan won the WCW World Heavyweight Championship six times, and this championship later became known as the World Heavyweight Championship in WWE after they gained ownership of it. No matter the name, this championship is one of the most prestigious titles in pro-wrestling history. During his first reign, Hogan held the championship for 469 days, the longest reign in the championship's history. During his second reign, Hogan made history again by holding it for 359 days, the second-longest reign in the championship's history.

For all of his contributions to the pro wrestling industry via WWE and WCW, Hulk Hogan has been inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on two occasions- individually, and as a member of the nWo.

In October 2009, Hulk Hogan joined TNA, brought in to help take TNA to a higher level. He pushed for TNA-TV to go live, going as far as stating that doing so would solve 75% of the issues in TNA. Going live had a positive effect on the roster, its morale improving due to the motivation involved with putting on a live show.

Also during Hulk Hogan’s time with TNA, the company became involved with new sponsors. Advertisers look for opportunities that will give them exposure. If your brand is not popular and marketable, it will not be sponsored. Hogan was the biggest name in TNA, and his being connected to the company made the TNA product attractive to advertisers who may not have heard of TNA otherwise or may not have been interested in them previously.

Hulk Hogan is a significant member of the pro-wrestling industry outside of US-based companies as well. In Japan’s NJPW, he became a part of the original IWGP Heavyweight Championship lineage in June 1983, and was the first holder of the championship in fact.

Hulk Hogan’s success in pro wrestling led to success in the world of acting, where he appeared in films such as "Rocky III," (which Hogan was a part of before he became the superstar that he is today), “No Holds Barred,” “Mr. Nanny,” “Gremlins 2: The New Batch,” and “Spy Hard.” Hogan also appeared on the television series “The A-Team.”

Beyond the Ring: Hulk Hogan's Enduring Influence on the Business

Beyond the impressive statistics and memorable matches, Hulk Hogan's true genius lay in his ability to fundamentally alter the business of professional wrestling. Hogan didn't only perform; he mainstreamed it. Before Hogan, wrestling was often seen as a niche, regional attraction. He transformed it into a family-friendly, nationally televised spectacle, drawing in audiences who had never considered watching before. Hogan's accessible, patriotic, "Real American" persona, combined with his larger-than-life presence and catchphrases, made wrestling digestible and exciting for a broad demographic, from children to their parents.

Hulk Hogan's appeal wasn't limited to North America; he cultivated a significant and passionate fanbase in Japan as well. Hogan's work in NJPW, particularly becoming the inaugural IWGP Heavyweight Champion, cemented his status as a global icon. Japanese fans, known for their appreciation of technical skills and Japanese wrestling's unique style of physicality, embraced Hogan's larger-than-life persona and powerful offense, solidifying his international drawing power and demonstrating his worldwide appeal across different wrestling cultures.



This mainstream appeal had a ripple effect throughout the industry. It led to unprecedented merchandise sales, record-breaking pay-per-view buyrates, and packed arenas, proving that professional wrestling could be a major entertainment business. Hogan's success set the template for what a top-tier wrestling superstar could achieve, influencing generations of performers who aspired to match his drawing power and connection with the audience. Even the stars of the Attitude Era, a period defined by its edgy content, pushing boundaries, and often sparking controversy, were reacting to and building upon the foundation Hogan firmly established.

Being involved with the formation of the New World Order further demonstrated Hulk Hogan's business awareness and adaptability. This heel turn was a daring, shocking gamble that paid off hugely. The Monday Night War, a fierce and competitive head-to-head ratings battle between WWE's Raw and WCW's Nitro, was back and forth when it began in 1995 but the Hulk Hogan-led nWo took WCW to another level when the faction launched the next year, keeping the company at the top of the ratings and giving them a remarkable edge in the war. Hogan proved that a performer could reinvent themselves and remain relevant at the very top for years, and successfully doing so is a mark of exceptional talent.

A Legacy That Will Not Be Duplicated

Hulk Hogan's impact on professional wrestling is endless. He was more than a wrestler; he was a cultural icon who brought the business into the homes and hearts of millions worldwide. Hogan's ability to connect with an audience, to generate excitement, and to consistently deliver memorable moments made him a central figure in wrestling. Hogan's contributions to the growth and popularity of the industry will forever be etched in its history. He was, and remains, a one-of-a-kind phenomenon.

Continuing the Legacy: The WWE Shop Collection

In recognition of his endless impact, WWE has released the Hulk Hogan Legacy Collection on WWE Shop. This new collection allows fans to celebrate the permanent mark he left on the wrestling world and to own a piece of his legendary career and support the legacy of one of wrestling's greatest figures.

Aces & Eights: How It Could Have Hit a Jackpot in TNA

Aces & Eights had all the potential to become a wrestling empire. Their initial success, culminating in Bully Ray's championship win and leadership reveal, positioned them for a long and impactful run. However, opportunities that were not taken in branding and long-term storytelling ultimately prevented them from reaching their full potential. In this second part, I will explore how a stronger foundation could have been built for Aces & Eights to have lasting success.

As well presented that the Aces & Eights storyline and faction were in TNA, one aspect that could have been improved on was strengthening the brand. For example, the Aces & Eights would have notably benefited from having their own website, as the nWo did, to further establish their brand and extend their storyline. Such a platform could have provided a space for "manifestos", cryptic messages, recruitment videos, and behind-the-scenes content (in character), adding more realism to the faction. Furthermore, it could have promoted a community of ride-or-die-ers (like how the nWo had nwo-ites) through forums, Q&As, online interactions with the Aces & Eights (in character), and contests & giveaways (perhaps for signed merchandise or even "honorary membership" in the faction, which would have incentivized participation and built a sense of belonging), reinforcing fan engagement and transforming casual viewers into invested fans who would have been excited to be part of the Aces & Eights' world. Merchandise sales through the site would have further solidified their brand and generated revenue. The website could also have served as a central hub for all Aces & Eights information, including a timeline of key moments in the Aces & Eights storyline (presented from their perspective), member bios, news, match results, and videos of televised segments featuring the Aces and Eights.


A well-executed website that was promoted heavily on social media would have been a valuable asset in elevating the Aces & Eights brand. Fans who were on the fence between supporting the faction and thinking that they were a fad would have identified with the Aces & Eights better if they were visiting the faction's website regularly which was extending the storyline beyond television.

It's also worth noting that Aces & Eights having a high level of focus on the X-Division, World Tag Team, and Knockouts World Championships could have remarkably strengthened their presence in TNA. Targeting all divisions would have fully established them as a dominating force, intent on controlling the entire company, raising the stakes of their actions.

Additionally, feuding with established stars in these divisions would have provided exposure and the opportunity for those wrestlers to elevate their own status. This would have been a form of marketing, both for the faction itself and for TNA as a whole. And TNA/Aces & Eights were not lacking the talent to take on these roles- Kenny King would have been a good recruitment choice to pursue the X-Division Championship, and the faction had a young & improving team in Wes Brisco & Garrett Bischoff going after the World Tag Team Championship, although there was not a strong program around their pursuit. Brooke did pursue the Knockouts World Championship, but only as a part of, "#1 Contendership" and "Three Way" matches, as opposed to a program. Brooke winning the Knockouts World Championship and then engaging in a series of singles matches with ODB would have been something fresh for fans, as the only time that Brooke and ODB have ever had singles matches with each other was at TNA house shows in 2011. A televised series of matches between the two women would have helped elevate the division.

In late 2013, TNA underwent restructuring, which included changes in TNA's creative team. As a result, the decision was made to wrap up the Aces & Eights storyline. Bully Ray lost the TNA World Heavyweight Championship in October, and in November, he lost a match that had the stipulation that if he lost, the Aces & Eights would have to disband. TNA wanted to go in a new creative direction, however, had the Aces & Eights brand been stronger, perhaps the company would have been willing to continue the storyline. Remember, no one had any idea that the nWo would become as popular as it did. Excellent creativity gave the nWo appeal, but strong branding kept the appeal lasting- even today, wrestling fans wear nWo merchandise. How the Aces and Eights was branded made the difference between whether the storyline lasted the one year plus that it did, and the three years plus that the nWo storyline lasted. The nWo's enduring legacy is a testament to the power of strong branding. Had Aces & Eights focused on building a stronger brand, they could have achieved similar longevity.

The Aces & Eights storyline had significant potential for long-term development. Had it continued beyond a year, the Aces & Eights could have dominated TNA completely, controlling multiple championships, key positions, and even the company's direction in a "takeover" angle, while they run the show and dictate who gets opportunities, increasing the faction's heat. This power dynamic could have created storylines with other wrestlers fighting for their place, challenging the faction's authority, and creating genuine underdog stories. Internal conflict, betrayals, and power struggles within the Aces & Eights would have added layers of drama and plotting. Could Bully Ray maintain control, or would a new leader emerge, shifting the faction's direction and creating new rivalries? This internal tension would have kept fans guessing and invested in the group's changes. Also, the "mystery" element that launched the storyline could have been utilized again, with there being a hint that there was an authority within the Aces of Eights above President Bully Ray, or that there were more complex motives behind the faction's motives than previously believed. This constant evolution would have motivated fan speculation and made fans become more engaged for the long-term.

Aces & Eights is potential proof that having a strong marketing strategy and creating a strong brand identity are not only a necessity for a promotion, but for wrestlers and factions as well. The initial mystery and intrigue, the reveals, and the dominant presence of the group were all promising elements. However, TNA's unwillingness to continue the storyline longer than it could have is a reminder that a powerful marketing plan and sturdy brand identification is what leads to taking someone/something to another level and experiencing things such as a stronger presence, drawing good crowds, and having successful sales. In poker, aces & eights is a strong hand that helps you win a jackpot if it's played right. The same can be said for the Aces & Eights period in TNA. The faction had all the ingredients for a wrestling jackpot: intrigue, shock value, and a dominant presence. However, opportunities that were not taken in branding and long-term storytelling likely prevented them from achieving their full potential. In the world of professional wrestling, a powerful story needs a powerful brand and a long-term vision to leave the greatest lasting impression possible.

Aces & Eights: The Rise of TNA's Motorcycle Gang Faction

Aces & Eights.

The name creates images of rebellious bikers creating chaos while they make it be known that, "When you ride with the Aces & 8s, you never walk alone!" When TNA introduced the faction in 2012, Aces & Eights dominated storylines for over a year, creating a sense of intrigue and anticipation. It was masterfully executed, and had the potential to deliver even more than it ultimately did. The nWo is considered by many to be one of the best pro-wrestling factions of all time, and Aces & Eights had the ingredients to earn that distinction as well.

It started off with three masked men appearing and sneak attacking Sting in the middle of the ring while he was cutting a promo during the June 14, 2012 episode of, "IMPACT WRESTLING". For maximum impact, it was done during the last segment of the show.



Storylines play a large role in American pro-wrestling. Fans enjoy seeing a storyline encapsulate the action that takes place in the ring, especially if it's of the mystery genre. That style of storyline makes fans sit on the edges of their seats while they watch the story unfold, wondering what is going to happen next. After the show is over, they go online and speculate with fellow fans, the angle's details still fresh in their minds. And most importantly, they come back for more.

In the early stages of the Aces & Eights storyline, masked assailants ran rampant throughout the company with possibly a mastermind within TNA controlling them behind the scenes, and there was suspense of not knowing what was going to happen next. It reminded me of how WCW was in 1997, complete with closing segments that were the best part of the show. The last five minutes of the August 23, 2012 episode of, "IMPACT WRESTLING" was the most exciting closing segment I had seen on an American pro-wrestling show all summer.



The storyline was kept under wraps very well, which was beneficial to it. Both fans and the pro-wrestling media were speculating on a regular basis regarding who it would turn out was supposed to be behind Aces & Eights (much like they speculated on who would be next to join the nWo back in the 90s). Always having an aura of mystery and suspense around them, it was never known when the Aces & Eights were going to show up, and if it was obvious that they were going to show up, it was never certain regarding in what capacity it was going to happen. And with TNA talent "crossing enemy lines" and joining the Aces & Eights, it was never clear who was going to join next, or when. During a promo segment? During a match? The only way to find out was to keep watching. After not being seen on "IMPACT WRESTLING" for weeks, Mr. Anderson returned as an ally of the Aces & Eights. During a wedding segment, Taz went from being the best man to being revealed as the newest member of the Aces and Eights in the blink of an eye.




At TNA Lockdown 2013 in front of the biggest domestic crowd ever for a TNA show, Bully Ray won the TNA World Heavyweight Championship while simultaneously revealing that he was the president of the Aces and Eights faction. This championship victory gave the Aces & Eights new life and brought them to the forefront of TNA, just as Hulk Hogan brought the nWo to the forefront of WCW when he was revealed as the leader of the nWo and shifted the balance of power. The heel heat was raw when Bully Ray cut his post-match heel promo, as the ring was pelted with garbage thrown into the ring by angry fans, which was the same way that WCW fans reacted when Hogan revealed that he had turned heel. The Aces & Eights had reached an nWo-level of dominance in TNA.



It was the Aces and Eights' time to be highlighted to their fullest potential, especially Bully Ray. Many had been praising him for over a year. Even Ray himself had noted that his career had new vitality. For the first time in Ray's career, the weight of a pro-wrestling company was resting on his shoulders.



When reviewing the eventual reveal of Bully Ray as the president of the Aces & Eights, it's obvious that choosing Ray was not a last-minute decision, as there were hints during the months leading up to it. With the Aces & Eights getting involved in Bully Ray-related situations on more than one occasion (to the benefit of Ray) since they made their debut, it's quite clear what Ray was referring to when he would constantly mention Bully Nation. And it appears that Ray threw a major hint regarding his affiliation with the Aces & Eights during the summer of 2012 on Twitter.

Believe none of what you hear and only half of what you see.Things are about to get interesting.#BULLYNATION

— Bully Ray (@REALBully5150) August 31, 2012

The night before Bully Ray posted that tweet, he was on an episode of "IMPACT WRESTLING" appearing to make a save against Aces & Eights.



Also, Ray would rarely join in on brawls against the Aces & Eights members, and when he did, they didn't put up much offense (if any). And one time, Bully Ray -limping with a chain- was keeping seven members of the Aces & Eights at bay. Unrealistic? Of course it was- it was all "a part of the plan".

In addition, Eric Bischoff (who was TNA Executive Producer at the time) was a red herring suspect, posing as the president of the Aces & Eights on an episode of, "IMPACT WRESTLING". He clearly wasn't Bully Ray, and Bischoff certainly did his job well, convincing viewers that he was the president. Bischoff barely tried to disguise his voice, making it obvious who he was. This created a tremendous wave of gossip, as fans and members of the pro-wrestling media were sure that they knew the identity of the President of the Aces and Eights.



Bully Ray's reveal as the leader of Aces & Eights at Lockdown 2013 was a pivotal moment, solidifying their dominance and elevating them to the top of TNA. The faction had reached an NWO-level of prominence, and the future seemed limitless. But this was just the peak of their ride. In Part 2, I'll take a look at the opportunities that were not taken that prevented Aces & Eights from achieving legendary status and examine how their brand could have been built for long-term success.

The Role of Tech in Connecting Wrestling With Other Media

In recent years, the media industry has been evolving rapidly, and pro-wrestling companies like WWE, AEW, and TNA are using technology to connect the wrestling industry with other industries that fall under the umbrella of the media industry.

Platforms Instagram, X (formerly branded as Twitter), and TikTok have enabled wrestling companies to communicate directly to fans around the world, creating a sense of community and building brand awareness.

Wrestlers also utilize tech, hosting live streams on Twitch and further growing their personal brands. They include Kenny Omega, Adam Cole, Johnny Gargano, Dakota Kai, and Michin.

WWE utilizes Peacock as an exclusive streaming partner (and is moving Raw to Netflix) and TNA+ is TNA's streaming platform- these services have made it easier for fans to access wrestling content on demand, expanding the reach of their companies beyond traditional television, similar to how independent promotions have been using streaming services.

The integration of wrestling with gaming, through video games, mobile apps, and virtual reality experiences, can attract new audiences and offer fans interactive ways to engage with the industry.

Advanced video editing software like Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D have allowed for improved production quality with more creative and visually appealing wrestling content, from highlight segments to documentaries. Also, green screens and virtual sets can create immersive and realistic environments for segments, enhancing the storytelling and production value.

Technology can be used to create unique and personalized merchandise, such as custom T-shirts, action figures, or NFTs.

Platforms that allow fans to interact with wrestlers and each other can generate revenue through subscriptions, virtual goods, or advertising.

Technology has enabled the wrestling industry to expand its reach and collaborate with other forms of media, such as movies, television, video games, music, and podcasts. Wrestlers have transitioned to acting careers, appearing in films and TV shows, while wrestling-themed movies and series have brought the industry to wider audiences. Video games featuring wrestling characters have allowed fans to interact with their favorite stars in new ways, and wrestling-themed music and podcasts have provided platforms for in-depth discussion and analysis. These crossovers have helped to increase the popularity of wrestling and introduce it to new audiences.

It should be noted that there is a potential challenge when using tech in the pro-wrestling industry- there will be pressure to constantly create engaging content. I minored in Computer Applications in college, which enables me to be a bridge between the wrestling industry and the technology industry. Wrestling companies having writers with technical knowledge would help them explore the potential of emerging technologies such as virtual reality or artificial intelligence, and incorporate interactive storylines that would enhance fan engagement.

By leveraging technology, the wrestling industry can connect with other forms of media, further expanding its reach, and enhancing its storytelling, which would attract new fans and create a more interactive experience. Simultaneously, data collected from fans by promotions could be monetized to develop new products and services, therefore creating new revenue streams. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and exciting applications in the wrestling industry.

[TNA Wrestling] Emergence 2024 on 8/30 at Old Forester's Paristown Hall (Louisville)

TNA Wrestling Emergence 2024 will feature high stakes and exciting action when it comes to Old Forester's Paristown Hall in Louisville, Kentucky on Friday, August 30 with an 8PM ET start time!

In the main event, TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth will face a true test when he defends his championship against former TNA World Champion Josh Alexander in a 1 hour, "Iron Man" match! Alexander proved that he has the stamina to compete at a high level for 1 hour when he wrestled Mike Bailey in late-2022 and the match lasted 59:48 before Alexander picked up the win. He was defending the TNA World Championship at the time, and in this upcoming match at TNA Wrestling Emergence 2024, he is challenging for it, which may make Alexander more relentless and more willing to go the extra mile and willing to take bigger risks. Meanwhile, Nemeth has shown throughout his career that whether he's in a match where he has a strong advantage or the odds are stacked against him, Nemeth is a dedicated wrestler who always strives for victory, and this match will not be an exception.

In another singles match involving top talents, former TNA Digital Media Champion Matt Cardona will go against current TNA Digital Media Champion PCO! This will be their first singles match with each other, and their clash of personalities guarantees that it will be an intense encounter. Recently, Cardona made a surprise return to TNA by crashing PCO's wedding to Steph De Lander.





The Knockouts Division will also be showcased at TNA Wrestling Emergence 2024, as TNA Knockouts World Championship Jordynne Grace teams with Spitfire to go against against Ash By Elegance and the TNA Knockouts World Tag Team Champions, Alisha Edwards and Masha Slamovich!

The X-Division is about high-flying action, and it too will be represented at TNA Wrestling Emergence 2024, when Mike Bailey defends the TNA X-Division Championship against Zachary Wentz, Jason Hotch, WWE NXT Superstar Riley Osborne, and two other opponents in an, "Ultimate X" match!

Ultimate X matches, with suspended cables connected to metal structures 15 feet above the ring, always featured thrilling moments as the match participants climbed the structure in an attempt to claim the prestigious TNA championship that hangs above the ring. TNA fans are eagerly awaiting the return of Ultimate X!

ULTIMATE X RETURNS at #TNAEmergence!

Watch #TNAiMPACT NOW on TNA+: https://t.co/ZoOeNdpoUi pic.twitter.com/tgB5xP0GVH

— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) August 2, 2024

Don't miss your chance to experience TNA Wrestling Emergence 2024 live! Secure your tickets now.

https://ticketmaster.evyy.net/c/3851170/264167/4272?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ticketmaster.com%2Fsearch%3Fq%3DTNA%2Bwrestling%2Bemergence