The Wrestling Post – 12.15.12

Welcome to another edition of The Wrestling Post.  This week we look at TNA’s venture into lottery tickets, reduction in PPVS and the WWE’s iPad App.

TNA agrees to pact with lottery ticket maker

MDI Entertainment, LLC has signed a deal with TNA wrestling for lottery branded scratch tickets with images of TNA stars. The agreement includes images on promo materials as well as the possibility of personal appearances and public service announcements.  The agreement includes the possibility of second chance prizes including the possibility of TNA merchandise and/or trips to TNA events.

(H/t:  Cageside Seats)

Payout Take:  A good partnership for both companies as it allows some promotion of the TNA brand and it gives the company some exposure to a greater population of people.

WWE’s iPad App offers second screen experience and PPVs

Last week, the WWE began promoting a second screen experience entitled “WWE Active” which allows users of the App access to additional information including polls, trivia and the opportunity to watch backstage features during the live edition of RAW.  In addition, the WWE announced that users could eventually order PPVs on the App which would allow mobile access to watch WWE PPVs

Payout Take:  The WWE iPad App is very popular with 2.7 million downloads in 215 countries.  Having used the app, it definitely is one of the better free downloads for iPad users.  The move to utilize the app to include additional original content allows more interaction with its fans.  The PPV component is one way to monetize the app and give fans another way to access the WWE.

TNA reduces PPV schedule

The Wrestling Observer (subscription required) reported that TNA Wrestling will be reducing its total PPVs for 2013 from 12 to 10.  This would allow for better buildup between pay per views.

Payout Take:  Less is more.  This is a good move by the company as it can build on storylines and hype the matches for a PPV.  The move should help with overall PPV sales for the year and shave down production costs for two less PPVs.