Anthem Acquires Majority Interest in TNA Impact Wrestling

Toronto-based Anthem Sports & Entertainment Corp. has officially acquired a majority interest in TNA Impact Wrestling.

Anthem, which also operates Fight Network -- Impact Wrestling’s exclusive broadcaster in Canada – has formed Anthem Wrestling Exhibitions LLC to operate the wrestling franchise, according to company officials. 

Anthem Sports & Entertainment Corp. executive vice president Ed Nordholm will serve as president of Anthem Wrestling Exhibitions LLC. Dixie Carter, chairman of Impact Ventures -- the parent company of TNA Impact Wrestling -- will resign her position and join the Advisory Board of Fight Media Group, focusing on the global growth of the Anthem’s combat sports brands.

The announcement follows Anthem's having settled a financial dispute between TNA Impact and William “Billy” Corgan over financial loans Corgan made to Impact Ventures.

“We are thrilled to have acquired TNA IMPACT Wrestling,” said Nordholm in a statement. “As we grow Anthem’s linear, digital and mobile platforms globally, top tier content with global appeal is key to that success and this acquisition is a perfect strategic addition to our portfolio. IMPACT has been a dominant wrestling brand around the world for more than a decade and we are confident that Anthem can leverage its assets and strategic partnerships to take IMPACT Wrestling to even greater heights.”

Carter, who will remain a minority equity shareholder, added: “We have worked hard to find the right company who would acquire TNA, use its strategic influence and have a long-term commitment to the brand. TNA’s incredible fans, talent and staff deserved to see the brand continue to thrive after 15+ years of incredible growth.  I’m excited to move to a new position and work with Anthem on their global strategic plan, and I am confident TNA IMPACT Wrestling is going to be a huge part of their success.”

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.