By James Caldwell, Torch assistant editor

TNA wrestler Mick Foley wrote today that the TNA Impact rating on Monday night "wasn't what they hoped for," but he put a positive spin on the opportunity for growth.

"We kicked off what we all hope will be a very exciting time for the company, with what I felt was an excellent Impact," Foley said in his Friday blog on TNA's website. "I know the rating wasn't quite what we are hoping for, but if we keep delivering the type of show fans saw Monday night, I have to believe that eyeballs will start turning our way and the ratings situation will take care of itself."

Foley also talked up Mr. Anderson and The Pope's recent work, saying Anderson hasn't just rested on his laurels from WWE and he doesn't understand how WWE missed the boat on Pope. He also said he believes Jeff Hardy came to TNA for the right reasons.

-- On Mr. Anderson: "In wrestling, as in life, anything that's new and different is bound to face criticism, and I know Ken has gotten a little over the past few weeks, but I think his promos have been incredible. ... It really seems like Ken is a new man in TNA, taking advantage of the change in scenery to brighten his star, instead of just living off the star power he brought with him from WWE."

-- On "The Pope" D'Angelo Dinero: "So let me get this straight...Elijah Burke sat on the shelf for months on end, and was eventually dropped from WWE because they didn't have any ideas for him? Hmm, here's an idea. How about giving him a microphone to speak into, and a ring to wrestle in? Seems to be working pretty well."

-- On Jeff Hardy returning to TNA after January 4: "I've never pretended to know Jeff's thought process, and I kind of only semi-know what brought him to TNA. But I know he feels it was the right move for him - a move that wasn't about money, but about doing what he felt in his heart - and wrestling fans are bound to be much better off for it."

Link: Read Foley's complete blog talking more about the overall feeling on Monday night.

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TNA NEWS LISTING
-- Did you read Bret Hart's comments on Flair & Hogan?
-- Roddy Piper talks about the TNA Impact product
-- Are you attending a weekend house show?
-- Jim Cornette criticizes TNA management

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