(Photo credit: Raymond Flotat)
Billy Corgan has been extolled by music critics and fans alike for his creativity that defined the Smashing Pumpkins and brought alternative rock to the forefront of mainstream music in the 90’s. Fewer people are aware, however, that this creative talent is not limited to the bounds of music and art; for years, Corgan has also been involved with the creative processes behind professional wrestling. In this métier, Corgan has recently taken his most ambitious role yet as President of Total Nonstop Action (TNA) wrestling promotion.
Corgan will be replacing Dixie Carter, who will move to the role of Chairman and Chief Strategy Officer. Carter discussed this decision in a statement made by IMPACT Ventures.
Billy is a visionary, an iconic artist and savvy businessman with an incredibly gifted creative mind. He has built a decades-long successful global brand, and also has a deep passion and understanding for professional wrestling. In working with Billy over the last 16 months, he has impressed me to the point that I’ve been in discussions with him to take an elevated strategic leadership role within the company. The more we discussed our vision for the organization, the clearer it became that position needed to match his commitment.
Corgan has worked around professional wrestling for several years. In 2011, the Pumpkins frontman created Resistance Pro Wrestling, an organization that brings 300-600 fans to events in Chicago. In April 2015 he began to work with TNA as the Senior Producer of Creative and Talent Developmental. The position involved creating characters and building storylines for the promotion. Several months later, he purchased a minor share of TNA.
Corgan released a statement on his new role:
I believe in this company, its passionate fans, the talented roster and the dedicated staff and crew… I am committed to this great opportunity and will use all of my resources and connections to drive the success of this company. This year we have made significant strides in establishing a strong foundation for our future and will be aggressive in continuing to evolve and grow the IMPACT brands.
Corrigan is accepting the position after a tumultuous 5 years for TNA. The company has been dropped by Destination America and Spike TV before being picked up by the relatively new Pop network. They organization has also struggled to retain talent; a number of its performers have left TNA for more established wrestling promotions such as the WWE.
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