We have been expecting a formal announcement of Anthem Sports & Entertainment taking over TNA for a while now. PWInsider reports that they will most likely become the official new owners of TNA on January 1st. We should not expect an announcement until then.
An official meeting is also expected to take place backstage during next week's tapings in Orlando. Anthem officials are reportedly working on re-negotiating contracts with talents who have current deals that expire in early 2017, including Drew Galloway and The Hardys, so be on the lookout for new deals announced in the coming weeks.
Also, Anthem officials are continuing discussions with Jeff Jarrett, but there has been no sign of a deal being reached with Jarrett to return to the company at all. However, anything is possible. Jarrett currently spends much of his time in Los Angeles, focused on finding potential Global Force Wrestling TV deals.
According to the Wrestling Observer Newsletter, TNA hasn't been paying its production crew in a timely manner. As of one week ago, many hadn’t been paid for the October tapings, even though they were told to expect paychecks this week. A reprieve is coming from two directions, however. TNA will be receiving a seven-figure payment from Sony Six in India this week, and Anthem officially takes ownership on or about the first of the year.
TNA is in need of a new revenue stream at this point. They lost their UK TV deal, and the Sony Six deal in India is how they make the majority of their income. To that end, TNA is planning to do a multi-date tour of India this summer. Dixie Carter suggested during a recent meeting that they tape 12 weeks worth of shows while in India. Dixie maintained that it would be cost effective, since the talent will be in India already, but that idea was rejected.
Another of Anthem’s plans to create revenue is start running live events/house shows again, but nothing has been announced as of yet.
The Hardy Family New Year's Special airs tonight on Pop at 8/7c. A preview can be seen at the top of the page.
