TNA wrestlers wow the fans

TNA wrestling were warmly welcomed last night by Birmingham's NIA crowd marking their first visit to the West Midlands.

Fans of 'TNA Impact', screened on cable television's Bravo channel each Saturday were finally given the opportunity to experience the 'Impact Zone'.

The build up of enthusiasm within the crowd was loud and clear as the first wrestlers hit the ring to rapturous applause. Combining a roster of ex-WWE superstars and homegrown talent, TNA delivered a spirited performance that delighted fans.

Although past his wrestling sell-by date, Mick Foley drew one of the best responses of the night by his personality alone. In the ring Mick immediately took to the mike to entertain fans with his special brand of storytelling helping to build up the following match.

As a New York Times best-selling author, Mick has proved over time that his words are as equally entertaining as his matches. Fans were delighted.

This is a strong point of interest to many wrestling fans. Whilst American wrestling may appear to be built upon one off matches between skilled professionals, the use of storylines play a greater part in the action than you may think. Seasoned fans of sports-entertainment know the importance of a great plot. The story of a hero or anti-hero against his or her opposite number is the generator of interest that can make or break a match even before the opening bell.

The inclusion of storytelling combined with incredible matches is what made the evening such a great success. Many WWE European tours have failed to offer the audience the experience of being a part of what they see each week on TV. TNA delivered what felt like a big pay-per-view event.

The efforts of each performers created an infectious enthusiasm that could be felt and heard throughout the NIA.

AJ Styles, Kurt Angle and Britain's Doug Williams all electrified the audience with energized skilled performances. Each match created excitement and drama that could not fail to impress.

We all hope the 'Impact Zone' will arrive in Birmingham again real soon, hopefully this time with cameras rolling.

By Adam Phillips.