Why TNA Needs to Rebuild the X Division

Why TNA Needs to Rebuild the X Division

by Ethan Lewis

2013 wasn't a good year for TNA. Financially nor creatively. I'm not poking fun at the company, I'm speaking as a concerned fan. I've been watching TNA on a regular basis since around 2007. Before then I watched periodically, and what I missed from that time, I have went back and watched. So I can tell you, the company isn't as good as it used to be. This year they lost Matt Morgan, Tara, Mickie James, Hulk Hogan, Eric Bischoff, AJ Styles and Jeff Jarrett. When Hogan and Bischoff left, I was happy because in my opinion they are part of what brought TNA down. When AJ left, I was sad for the company because they lost their biggest star, but I was also supportive of AJ because he said he had to do what was best for him and his family. I respect that.

With all of this top talent leaving, the question remains what can TNA do to build their company back up to what it used to be? There are several things I think TNA could do that would help get them back on track, but in my opinion the first step to bringing TNA back to what it once was is rebuilding the X Division.

The X Division is what TNA was built on and what it was known for. AJ Styles, Christopher Daniels, Kazarian, Chris Sabin and Samoa Joe put on legendary matches throughout 2002-2006 that put TNA on the map. They were hungry young stars that got the opportunity to show everyone how good they were and they did just that. The X Division was a huge drawing factor.

Most of the guys who helped put TNA and the X Division on the map are either no longer with the company or are competing in the main event scene. AJ Styles has left the company. Daniels and Kazarian are teaming together. Samoa Joe is regarded as a main event star. My point being, the first big wave of X Division wrestlers that made the division so great have moved on to other things. This means TNA needs a new group of motivated young guys to bring the X Divison prominence. They need this generation's AJ Styles, Jerry Lynn, Christopher Daniels, Samoa Joe and Kazarian. I firmly believe that TNA has several wrestlers on the roster that could bring the X Division back to what it once was.



The first guy that comes to mind is Kenny King. King made a name for himself in companies such as ROH before coming to TNA. My first glimpse at King was when he debuted in TNA. I was instantly impressed. The guy is ready for a leading role in the company. Christopher Daniels even said so. I honestly believe he could carry the division to new heights. One man can't do it by himself though and that's where Manik comes in to play.

Manik, formerly known as Suicide, has been with TNA for several years and is one of the most talented guys in the company. He reminds me alot of guys like Low Ki and AJ Styles. He's been involved in many great matches and I believe if given the spotlight, he would definitely impress.

Another name that comes to mind is Zema Ion. He is a former X Division champion and an outstanding talent. While his gimmick may get under your skin, his matches will amaze you. Ion has proved on numerous occasions that he can hang with the best. He's a very good wrestler and would be a great addition to a growing Division.

Last, but not least we have the American Wolves, Eddie Edwards and Davey Richards. Edwards and Richards have made their name across the independent scene in companies such as ROH and PWG. TNA definitely made a good decision by signing them. Both men are loaded with talent and could be a huge boost to the X Division. I can't wait to see what Edwards and Richards do in TNA if given the opportunity.

These five men could very well be the next big stars of the X Division. Not only that, I believe they could bring the division out of the slump it is currently in. These competitors could put on matches reminiscent of the early days of the X Division which would draw more attention to TNA. The old days of the X Division are what many people miss about TNA thus putting the focus on the division would be a huge step in the right direction. I hope TNA capitalizes on this amazing opportunity to revamp the division that took their company to new heights.