Professional 'Rasslin

Cable World, Sept 11, 2000

Viacom won WWF television rights to the tune of $28.5 million. USA Networks has appealed this victory, putting a momentary headlock on Viacom's plans to promote the WWF's grand entrance to TNN. Viacom has committed to $8 million in promoting the WWF. That amount of cash can burn an awfully large hole in someone's pocket. Namely, the pockets of Viacom and the WWF since they put all promotional plans on hold until a final decision comes in.

"If they just rely on their Web site to spread the word, that's only about 15% of their audience," says a Turner spokesperson. TNN says the review process for the appeal has been put on the fast track and that a decision will most likely be reached sooner, rather than later.

"We're just waiting for a decision," says a TNN spokesperson.

Regardless, most insiders believe, at the very least, a month is needed to ensure a smooth transition from USA to TNN. We at Cable World think that any motley crew patient enough to sit through endless bouts of steroid-enhanced hulks throwing chairs and stage blood at each other will certainly have the patience to ride out this promotional rift.

In addition, wrestling Web site pwtorch.com feels the WCW will need to find a new home next year since TNT has big plans to become "the women's network" a la Lifetime. This scenario is as realistic as a professional wrestling match.

"I promise you we do not have a some sort of secret plan to unveil that says we want to go after women," says a TNT spokesperson.