Jeff Jarrett Discusses The Merger of Impact and Global Force Wrestling

Impact Wrestling Executive Producer Jeff Jarrett was recently interviewed by Akhilesh Gannavarapu of WrestlingInc., where he discussed a number of topics. Most notable of these was the merger of Impact Wrestling and Global Force Wrestling.

Below are some questions, along with Jarrett’s answers:

Can you tell us what it means to you to return to Impact Wrestling, and putting your vision in place?

“I’m very thankful. I’m very, very blessed. You know, I’ve done quite a bit of media since I’ve been here, and as Impact, we’ve reached our 15th anniversary – at Slammiversary, 15 years live at Orlando. It’s been surreal; who would’ve thought that back on June 19th 2002, when we had our very first show, and the ride we’ve been on as an organisation, and I left back in December 2013, and here we are in 2017 and I’m back, and the team is coming back together. It was the last piece of the puzzle, and it’s just very, very exciting.

“Our digital growth over the last 100 – 120 days has exploded, we’re obviously in India to produce an Impact show, which is a first. Back in 2013, when I was still with the organisation negotiating a contract, and who would’ve thought, after all those years, I’m back here, and Anthem – they’re great partners to work with. So here we are, producing Impact in Mumbai in Film City – it’s history being written.”

About the growth of Impact Wrestling in the past 15 years:

“It’s something I’m super excited about. It’s no secret that we’ve had our ups and downs. But since I’ve come back on board and Anthem’s come on board since January 1st this year, we have our Spike TV deal in the United Kingdom, obviously the Sony SIX situation here, where we’re producing Impact, we’re about to kick off our live events – restart that program back in the States in the late summer, and our licensing program and merchandise – the growth is very enjoyable.

“Just to think about all the situations that are going on – like in Africa, in South Africa, Super Sport is our partner there. And the growth there in digital perspective is enormous. We’re just excited on all fronts.”

You’ve merged Global Force Wrestling with Impact Wrestling. Can you give us your thoughts behind the idea, and also regarding the GFW title being added to the list of championships in the promotion?

“Yes, it’s a part of the merger. As things come together, and the fans will see on television – like you just said, I launched Global Force Wrestling (GFW) in April 2014. The days, and months, and now the years, as they roll by, and as they become one (Impact Wrestling and GFW), I think it’s going to be an interesting situation for the fans, and something we’re all excited about. Which is a part of the rebranding.”