National Wrestling Alliance commentator Jim Cornette recently spoke to Sports Illustrated. As candid as ever, Cornette discussed The Rock, NWA Powerrr, and what Billy Corgan does for the organization.
Check out highlights below:
WHY NWA POWERRR IS APPEALING TO FANS:
It’s pro wrestling presented in a fashion from 30 years ago, done by guys that weren’t born 30 years ago. Cowboy James Storm and Eli Drake, those guys can talk and rile the people up. Those Dawsons, those big fat f—s from North Carolina, may look like big fat f—s but they’re also tough as bikers and I wouldn’t call them big fat f—s to their faces at the bar. They are out to beat some people. And there is Nick Aldis, the world champ. What else do you need in one hour? And there aren’t people getting brain damage from taking reckless bumps over and over again.
ON THE ROCK ENJOYING NWA POWERRR:
The Rock had seen a tweet where I’d answered a person’s question about something related to studio wrestling, and Rocky took that opportunity to say he’d checked out the show and it was cool. Rock loves wrestling in general, but this also has a nostalgic feel for him because of his family.
Not only did The Rock start in the Memphis studio in the last year the Memphis studio was a program back in the ‘90s, but he also went with his father so many times. I have tapes of his father doing studio wrestling from the ’70s. He likes that intimate atmosphere and that old fashioned, territory style of the business.
WHO SHOULD BE CREDITED FOR NWA REVIVAL:
I’ve got so much of the credit for the show, and people have been reaching out thanking me. I’m merely an employee, though an opinionated employee. Billy Corgan has done a tremendous job, and Dave Lagana has produced everything. They have resurrected not only the brand, but the championship and the Crockett Cup, and now this series.
Get even more by reading the full interview and learn why Cornette believes The Rock should get into politics.