TNA Wrestlings big AMC debut may have drawn brutal reviews from some fansbut according to a new backstage update, the network itself was more than pleased.
PWInsiders Mike Johnson reports that AMC executives were in attendance for the January 15 edition of TNA iMPACT! at the Curtis Culwell Center in Texas, and despite the shows flaws, the word making its way around AMC yesterday was that execs on site at the Thursday Night Impact premiere were very happy with the show.
Thats a stark contrast to how the episode was received online. On Cagematch.net, one of the internets most-used wrestling databases, TNA iMPACT! currently holds a 1.52 out of 10 ratinga scathing score based on early user reviews.
Part of the backlash likely stems from the notable absences during the broadcast. Steve Maclin, Dani Luna, and several backstage agents were missing due to unresolved visa issues, which prevented them from making the taping. Their absence left gaps in the roster, despite a historic night that featured returns from AJ Styles, Nic Nemeth, and Matt Hardy.
The premiere marked TNAs first show on AMC and AMC+, ushering in a new distribution era aimed at expanding the promotions reach beyond its former AXS TV limitations. And while online reception wasnt kind, the internal response from AMC suggests the network remains optimistic about the partnership.
Can strong network support outweigh a rough critical start? Please share your thoughts and feedback in the comment section below.
