Hogan Knows Best?

Hulk & Brooke

By Kevin Hunsperger
@kevinhunsperger & @my123cents on Twitter

It's been announced that Brooke Hogan is the latest hire by Impact Wrestling.  She'll be the Executive in Charge of the Knockouts.  I don't want to be too critical, because I know this is all a part of the storytelling process, but first of all, what does that mean?  Is Hulk Hogan's oldest child going to be the "GM" of women's wrestling in TNA?  I don't get the title.

Secondly, I don't get the reasoning for putting her in this position. I don't think an "executive" should be someone who has NO EXPERIENCE in the field that they are overseeing.  Yes, being the child of a wrestler makes you closer to the business, but does it make you an authority?  Has Brooke ever taken a bump?

I realize I may be offering too much criticism here because this angle involves the Hogan family.  Some have argued that Vince McMahon, Dusty Rhodes, Verne Gagne, and Fritz Von Erich all hired their kids, so why not Hulk?  I guess I can't argue that point too much, as I don't remember the skill level that the second and third generation stars had at the time of their hires.  But I do know that

Vince for example had Shane and Stephanie doing grunt work before they landed TV roles and executive jobs.  Vince himself toiled for his father before he was an commentator and eventual owner of the WWF/WWE.  The Von Erich boys were natural high school and college athletes, it made sense that they'd transition into wrestling.  And before the gender bias is thrown out there, I'd be critical of this decision if it were Nick Hogan hired to the position.

The McMahon Family

I have no problem with Brooke getting a break and starting in the business.  But why not start off at a lower rung on the ladder.  Make her a backstage interviewer or I'd even be more accepting of a role as a valet.  I don't get the whole "executive" thing.  Part of the problem admittedly may be that I don't keep up with Impact like I should.  This could be just some goofy storyline that will come to pass.  Since I'm on a rant though, it kind of reminds me of the Garrett Bischoff situation.

I know nepotism exists in wrestling and all walks of life.  In some cases it's worked out really well.  But many times it ends up with an unqualified or less talented performer taking a spot from someone who truly deserves to be there.

On a positive TNA note though, I do applaud their decision to test the market for a live show.  This COULD be a first step in helping bolster sagging ratings.  The company has been around for a decade now, it's time to show some growth.  While I won't be watching the show (it's on opposite our radio show From the Rafters Radio), I do hope that it is a success.  The WWE seriously needs some competition and fans deserve another alternative.

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