Jeff Jarrett recently opened up about his 2013 attempts to purchase TNA Wrestling on the podcast My World With Jeff Jarrett. The conversation revealed insights on why the deal with Toby Keith fell apart and provided a behind-the-scenes look at the wrestling organization’s ownership dynamics.
Jarrett, the WWE Hall of Famer, explained just how pivotal the negotiations were, highlighting the timeframe from February to December of 2013. According to him, not once during these discussions was the issue of Dixie Carter remaining as an on-screen character brought up. He stated, “Not one time during the entire negotiation — from February of 2013 until December of 2013. Not one time was [Dixie being an on-screen character] brought up. Not one time her — any ofthat.”
These comments reveal the underlying tensions between Jarrett and the Carter family, particularly when it came to the potential for control over the wrestling company. Jarrett emphasized, “At the end of the day, Bob Carter completely understood ... he was willing to completely lose his investment as opposed to give up control.” This signals the commitment of the Carter family to maintain their influence over TNA, regardless of the financial ramifications.
Adding to the intrigue, Jarrett recounted how the negotiation process was affected by complications, including rumors of behind-the-scenes meetings. He noted, “You know, when they went behind my back and flew up to Oak City, the lawyer and Janice, to have a meeting... basically say, ‘Hey, we want you on board, but Jeff can’t be attached.’” Interestingly enough, this meeting, lasting less than 15 minutes, saw Dixie’s name excluded entirely from discussions, showcasing the fragmented approach to decision-making within TNA's ownership.
Jarrett's perspective sheds light on the wrestling promotion’s complex narrative involving its key players. He acknowledged the influential role played by wrestling legends like Hulk Hogan, who was operating more as Dixie’s ally. Jarrett straightforwardly stated, “Hulk is only performing for a party of one, and that's Dixie Carter. Not Bob Carter, Dixie Carter.” This paints Hogan's public persona as more of a loyalist supporting Dixie, rather than being independently driven.
The fallout from these negotiations highlighted the cracks within TNA’s management structure, as Jarrett’s interest in acquiring the firm also underscored larger issues present within the wrestling industry itself. The dynamics of control, ownership, and operational decision-making are pivotal themes, especially as TNA had previously achieved considerable prominence within professional wrestling.
Looking back, the missed opportunity for Jarrett and Keith to take the reins of TNA may represent not just the failed merger of personalities but also serve as commentary on broader industry challenges. What would have been different had Jarrett succeeded? Would TNA have adopted broader management strategies to compete with bigger companies like WWE? Or was the corporate structure too inflexible to adapt?
These are relevant questions as wrestling fans and analysts reflect on the evolution of TNA Wrestling and its often tumultuous history. With Jarrett’s recent comments, listeners are reminded of how intertwined personal dynamics, control, and the push for creative freedom heavily influence the wrestling business.
Looking forward, the podcast offers insights not just for wrestling enthusiasts but also for business professionals interested in the negotiations and relationship dynamics of corporate takeovers. Understanding how personalities can complicate or facilitate negotiations might provide valuable lessons across various industries.
Jarrett's reflections on the past suggest lessons learned—whether through missed opportunities or interpersonal tensions, there's no doubt the world of wrestling will keep its audience guessing. Whether there will be new chapters for TNA or the emergence of other competitors, the narratives continue to evolve, much like the wrestling storylines audiences have come to love.