Former WWE star Road Dogg, or Brian James, has offered an insightful critique of the current state of WWE, shedding light on a critical issue that many fans and industry insiders might have overlooked. James' perspective, gained from his extensive experience within the company, highlights a fundamental problem with the way WWE utilizes its roster.
James emphasizes the importance of a balanced approach to storytelling, suggesting that WWE's current strategy of focusing solely on top-tier talent is detrimental to the overall show. He argues that the absence of mid-card entertainment is a significant hindrance, stating, 'You can't just have a top guy and tell his title story, or a girl and tell their title story – you've got to have some underneath stuff.' This sentiment underscores the need for a diverse range of storylines and characters to engage and captivate the audience.
The former wrestler's critique extends to the creative direction of Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), a developmental territory for WWE. James praises OVW's approach, which he believes WWE officials should emulate. OVW, under the leadership of Al Snow, is described as a 'variety show' that seamlessly blends comedy, serious wrestling, and engaging title stories, along with a strong women's division. James' analogy of a bear riding a bicycle and a guy spinning plates beautifully encapsulates the idea of variety and the need to keep the audience entertained.
His departure from WWE in March, citing a desire to spend more time with his family and the feeling that things were 'moving too fast,' further emphasizes his point. James' departure, while personal, underscores the importance of a sustainable and well-paced creative process in professional wrestling.
In my opinion, James' critique is a call to action for WWE to reevaluate its creative strategies. The company has a rich history and a massive global fan base, and it is crucial to maintain a balance between top-tier talent and mid-card entertainment. By incorporating the variety and storytelling techniques praised by James, WWE can ensure that its shows remain engaging and captivating for all fans, from the casual viewer to the die-hard enthusiast.
What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential impact of such a shift. WWE has the power to influence the entire industry, and by addressing this issue, they could set a new standard for professional wrestling, ensuring that the art form continues to thrive and evolve.
In my view, WWE's current approach to storytelling is a missed opportunity. By embracing the lessons from OVW and incorporating a more diverse range of characters and storylines, the company can create a more sustainable and engaging product. This is not just about improving the show; it's about preserving the legacy of professional wrestling and ensuring its future success.
