Jim Ross reveals key issues facing TNA following Toby Keith’s attempted investment

Country music star Toby Keith has been linked to TNA in the past as a potential owner/investor as the company.

However, Jim Ross revealed that Keith is essentially out of the mix after dealing with control/creative issues that certain members of TNA management wanted to retain.

Ross added in a new blog at jrsbarbq.com that he would have been part of a re-branded/re-named “TNA” package if Keith bought an interest in the company.

“My Oklahoma friend Toby Keith had a legit interest in buying TNA in the past and he and I discussed my potential involvement, of which I was interested working with Toby,” Ross revealed. “He was ready to write a check, but he had to have full control with no restrictions regarding creative, etc. and that was not on the table.”

Now, Ross believes that TNA is at a critical spot where certain members of management have to give up control in order for the company to stay afloat.

“Apparently a new investor or buyer is at play for the struggling company,” Ross said. “Without significant, live event revenue, and a viable, PPV component in the revenue mix it will not be surprising to hear of any pro wrestling company being in financial peril. I hope that the eventual fate of TNA is much different than those within the company and others close to the matter are saying. Nonetheless, it is somewhat obvious that the next few months are going to be crucial in determining the future of the company.”

Ross added that he thinks a complete overhaul of the company’s brand and image would be necessary to be successful in the U.S. wrestling industry.

“As I’ve said before, it may be best for the company to re-brand themselves and move on from the public perception that the brand currently has in the marketplace. New name..new philosophy..new approach to their presentation based on the talents that they have to work with on a regular basis,” Ross wrote.