TNA recently instituted a new policy where it’s contracted talent are no longer allowed to wrestle on independent shows that are released on DVD or broadcasted via iPPV or television. Previously, TNA talent was allowed to work indy shows, even if those shows were released on DVD, as long as it was the indy promotion selling the DVDs directly and not a third party (such as Amazon.com or Best Buy).
Since many of TNA wrestlers make a portion of their income from working indy shows (and many indy promotions depend on TNA stars to sell tickets & DVDs), this is likely to have a big impact on the industry.
Chavo Guerrero recently had to cancel a scheduled appearance for Quebec’s North Shore Pro Wrestling due to the new policy:
“I will not be appearing @NSPW on Oct 6 due to them not honoring their contract. They decided last min that they wanted to tape & sell DVD’s Of me & that was never discussed. That is of course illegal to film & distribute w/out permission. I’m sorry to ppl who have already paid But that is completely on @NSPW plz don’t blame me. I’m still willing to hold up my end of the deal. Plz take your complaints to @NSPW”
NSPW responded via Twitter:
“Due to TNA deciding that their talent cant appear on indy feds’ dvd, we hav no choice but to cancel Chavo Guerrero’s appearance on Oct. 6th. Mr. Guerrero’s claim that we decided last minute to tape and sell dvds is incorrect has we have done dvds of all of our shows. It is just not possible to cover the cost without dvds of the event. Never in the past has this been an issue with any guests. NSPW finds the situation and the decision made by TNA to prevent talent from appearing on dvds to be unfortunate. NSPW doesn’t hold anything against Mr Guerrero and wishes him nothing but the best with TNA Wrestling. A suitable replacement for our Main Event will be announced tonight!”