By James Caldwell, Torch assistant editor

Ric Flair says his main reason for joining TNA and making his debut on the January 4 live Impact was because he felt wanted by TNA and he didn't feel wanted by WWE, who gave him the ultimate retirement send-off in 2008.

Flair told Mike Mooneyham of the Charleston Post & Courier that he didn't want to sit at home watching two shows on Monday nights when he feels he can still contribute to the wrestling business.

"I think I certainly can add something to the show," Flair said. "And the nice thing is ... they want me.”

Flair says he waited for a phone call from WWE after he worked a brief angle with Randy Orton in 2009 that included them brawling ringside and Flair bleeding from the forehead to sell the angle. He says the call never came to do any follow-up.

Flair defended his decision to return to the U.S. TV wrestling scene (after returning to the ring in Australia two months ago) by saying he's "feeling great - mentally and physically" and he shouldn't have to sit on the sidelines when he feels strongly about what he can contribute to TNA.

Mooneyham reports: "Flair says he loves WWE and always will, but that he needed this opportunity for himself. ... It’s a matter of pride, of belonging, of feeling that old familiar adrenaline rush. Flair says he is excited and energized by the positive vibes coming reverberating throughout the company (TNA)."

Link: Read Mooneyham's report.

[Torch art credit Joe Borzotta (c) PWTorch.com]

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