ROH on HDNet finished

[AZUCAR!]

Ring of Honor's series with HDNet will end with the promotion's January tapings in Philadelphia,PA at the ECW Arena, PWInsider.com has confirmed.

Those tapings will carry episodes on the network through April 2011. ROH sources categorized the split as simply the promotion's two year contract with the network ending and in an exclusive statement to PWInsider.com, ROH commented, "Ring of Honor Wrestling would like to thank HDNet for the last two years, especially those behind the scenes that made it possible every single TV taping."

While everyone had high hopes for the series (the network's first foray into pro wrestling), the reality seemed to be that HDNet, as a network, didn't have the brand awareness or clearances needed to really make a difference for ROH as a promotional partner, while ROH didn't have the awareness to bring new eyeballs to HDNet.

While the series produced the most in-ring wrestling per hour of any nationally televised wrestling show, it wasn't bringing in huge numbers for either side and the hoped-for international television clearances revenue didn't pan out, either.

That said, ROH and HDNet have not ended their business relationship entirely. The two sides are currently in negotiations for the network to carry a potential live ROH special in 2011 as well as other potential projects beyond that.

ROH sources noted that they are already free and clear to pursue a new television deal and are currently looking at least one potential new TV partner.

I am told that relations between HDNet and ROH remain friendly and on good terms. It's not a case of the series ending with bad blood.
Following the final TV tapings in January, the promotion intends to take some time off from the Philadelphia market before returning to running regular events.

ROH on HDNet debuted in March 2009. The final tapings will take place 1/21 and 1/22 in Philadelphia.

Ring of Honor issued the following statement to PWInsider.com in response to the story I wrote about this evening:

Ring of Honor completed its 2 year TV contract with HDNet. During this time "ROH on HDNet" fans witnessed many great matches, the introduction of the ROH Television Title, and the crowning of new tag champions, among other historical moments. HDNet will air new episodes of ROH until 4/4/11. Please continue to support ROH and watch these new shows on HDNet.

Negotiations are underway for HDNet to broadcast a live special in 2011, and we will bring you more information on that as it becomes available. Ring of Honor Wrestling would like to thank HDNet for the last two years, especially those behind the scenes that made it possible every single TV taping.

The final ROH on HDNet TV tapings are scheduled for January 21st & 22nd in Philadelphia, so come out and support ROH as we close out our weekly run on HDNet.

I wouldn't mind them finding a new TV partner as long as it works out for them. Or just have them concentrate once again on the DVD shows.

 

[InYourFace]

Cant say im upset since that program was just terrible.

 

[SAIYANS]

Not shocked, why waste the programming if you are Cuban for a brand that isn't gaining ground?

 

[Phenomenal1]

Cant say im upset since that program was just terrible.

This.

 

[The Nicker]

This.

Wow, you are a very individualistic person with highly strong opinions. You should remain a moderator since you are so involved and bring so much to your position.

I really don't it was a good thing for either HDNet or Ring of Honor that Ring of Honor was airing on that network. They definitely need something better, but they may be focusing a little too much on the wrestling and not the evolution of it's entire product. Sometimes it takes one tiny little non-wrestling thing to gain publicity. It's not that they have to follow TNA and WWE's trend, but once in awhile, they should cater to non-wrestling fans. Just until they are able to be more well-known.

 

[dreamboy3000]

This could be another nail in the coffin of ROH.

To lose this deal is bad news, and they can't even get a deal in the UK despite us having hundreds of channels.

They will likely struggle even more nowadays at holding onto their best guys.