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KELLER'S TAKE
KELLER SHORT: If Brother Ray retires from the ring, there's another valuable role he could play Jan 8, 2009 - 3:08:53 PM
Earlier today, we ran highlights of an interview Brother Devon did with Alex Marvez regarding the future of Brother Ray in wrestling. Devon said Ray is physically banged up and might need extended time off. This is a story on a number of levels, and Ray's current health is the top priority. He was among the wrestlers whom you would guess just by looking at him probably ate the least healthy diet and workout routines, which combined with all of the bumps and hardcore style matches he's had over the years, it's no surprise his body is breaking down. Hopefully he can take whatever time off he needs and do whatever can be done to get himself into shape where he at least live day to day with minimal pain and get in better health overall.
The other aspect of this is Ray's connection to pro wrestling. One thing I've thought for a while that Ray would be excellent at is being an agitating heel commentator. His mic work, when he's now spewing vile, hateful, sexist comments to get a reaction, is really entertaining. He's quick-witted and articulate. I believe there is still a place for a strong heel commentator, but they have to be the type you'd want to spend an hour or two listening to each week. In TNA's case, even if a little of Brother Ray went a long way, well, there's so little wrestling on TNA Impact, there'd only be a little bit of him if he were on color.
Now, I've become a fan of Don West's commentary, so I'm not pitching for him to be replaced. But perhaps Ray would be a key ingredient in a good three-way set-up for Impact. Or, if TNA expanded to another program, Ray could be used on color there. Or, if TNA had no role for Ray, WWE might consider him for a spot on one of the three shows should a slot open. From his promos and guest commentary, he seems like the type who, if he adjusted his thinking to get others over instead of himself, would know how to do that well.
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