In the latest episode of 83 Weeks, Eric Bischoff delved into the impact and legacy of former TNA President Dixie Carter on the world of pro wrestling. He discussed how Carter influenced the industry during her tenure and the various challenges she faced while running the promotion. Bischoff shared his thoughts on her leadership style and the initiatives she implemented to grow TNA’s presence in a competitive market. Check out some highlights from the episode below (thanks to 411mania.com for the transcription):
Eric Bischoff on Dixie Carter’s impact on the wrestling business:
I think that’s a little broad. Conrad, I think the business would be exactly where the business is without Dixie Carter and TNA. I think the individuals that you referenced may not be a part of it, because of exactly what you said. You know, you’ve — it’s one thing to learn your craft and get better at your craft and go out there every night and practice, and get yourself on TV and grow your own personal brand. But you’ve got to be able to pay your bills in the process or you’re going to be working in a warehouse, or as a stockbroker or whatever, real estate agent. Dixie did provide those people an opportunity to stick with their dream, and to get better and grow with it. I don’t think in terms of its impact on the industry in general, I can’t subscribe a lot of credit to TNA for that. But I can certainly acknowledge what they did for individuals.”
Eric Bischoff on if TNA wanted to position Carter as the Stephanie McMahon of TNA:
No, they wanted to position her as Vince McMahon. That’s what Dixie wanted. That was her primary driver, was to be recognized as the first female president of a highly successful professional wrestling company. She wanted to be in the same conversation as Vince McMahon, or Paul Heyman, or Eric Bischoff.”
Blue Techker Dixie definitely helped keep TNA alive.
Thinker Pedia Dixie needs more credit for the success of TNA.