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Why did Billy Corgan buy the NWA?

Published in Wrestling Business 2 mins read

Billy Corgan bought the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) primarily due to his long-standing passion for professional wrestling and his ambition to rebuild a historic brand. His acquisition was the culmination of years of involvement and experience within the wrestling industry.

Corgan's Deep Roots in Professional Wrestling

Corgan's interest in wrestling began as a fan, and he soon discovered a natural aptitude for the business. This intrigue evolved into active participation, laying the groundwork for his eventual purchase of the NWA.

A Journey Through the Ranks

Corgan's path to NWA ownership involved several key ventures that provided him with practical experience and a deeper understanding of the industry's intricacies:

  • Resistance Pro-Wrestling (2011): Corgan launched his own independent wrestling promotion, Resistance Pro-Wrestling, in Chicago. This hands-on experience allowed him to learn the operational aspects of running a wrestling company from the ground up.
  • Total Nonstop Action (TNA) Wrestling: He later served as a creative executive for TNA, one of the largest wrestling promotions in North America. This role provided him with invaluable insight into mainstream wrestling production, storytelling, and talent management at a higher level.
  • Prior Ambitions: Before successfully acquiring the NWA, Corgan also launched an unsuccessful bid in the wrestling business, indicating a persistent desire to own and shape a promotion.

Rebuilding a Legacy

The NWA, with its rich history dating back to 1948, offered Corgan a unique opportunity. It was a brand with significant heritage but had lost much of its prominence over the decades. Corgan saw the potential to revitalize this storied organization, leveraging its legacy while implementing a modern vision. His ambition was not just to own a wrestling company, but to restore a significant piece of wrestling history to relevance through strategic creative direction and business acumen.

By acquiring the NWA, Corgan aimed to fuse his creative vision with a brand that resonated deeply with wrestling fans, offering a platform to showcase his particular talent for the business that he had cultivated over many years.