**Update** a previous version of this story noted that GFW’s Kevin Sullivan was the former wrestler and booker from WCW. It turns out it is a different Kevin Sullivan who is the VP of Production at Impact. We regret the error.
Earlier this week, Sports Illustrated’s Justin Barrasso reported that GFW/Impact is “hemorrhaging funds” and the company’s majority owner, Anthem Sports and Entertainment, is ready to sell to the highest bidder and get the hell out of Dodge.
As Impact is no stranger to financial woes, many took the report as fact – including the two people who stand to gain the most from the company’s failure, Matt and Reby Hardy.
The Hardys will outlast all. pic.twitter.com/I5VnK6CNBZ
— REBORN by FATE (@MATTHARDYBRAND) September 6, 2017
— Reby Hardy (@RebyHardy) September 5, 2017
Yall trippin if you think imma be anything BUT laughing at the misfortune of someone who went SO OUT OF THEIR WAY to fck w my family. FOH.
— Reby Hardy (@RebyHardy) September 5, 2017
However, GFW Vice President of Production Kevin Sullivan also took to Twitter to refute Barrasso’s report.
@SInow when did it become ok to print bs? As a journalism major, I find your fact checking to be less than diligent.
— Kevin Sullivan (@KevinSullyTV) September 7, 2017
@SInow will you be following up with another story with the facts? @GFWWrestling is: Launching the Global Wrestling Network.
— Kevin Sullivan (@KevinSullyTV) September 7, 2017
Is launching on Pluto TV. Is launching in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, via ran FIGHTING. And extended their deal on @PopTV
— Kevin Sullivan (@KevinSullyTV) September 7, 2017
@SInow “Anthem is committed to broadening Global Force Wrestling’s footprint, as we work alongside international broadcast partners…
— Kevin Sullivan (@KevinSullyTV) September 7, 2017
@SInow “…digital platforms and professional wrestling promotions to bring our passionate fans a high-quality product…
— Kevin Sullivan (@KevinSullyTV) September 7, 2017
@SInow “…that not only stands out in today’s media landscape, but continues to thrive into the future.”
— Kevin Sullivan (@KevinSullyTV) September 7, 2017
@SInow Uncertain future?
— Kevin Sullivan (@KevinSullyTV) September 7, 2017
I’m not sure who or what to believe here. On the one hand, GFW did issue a press release announcing the launch of the Global Wrestling Network – “a multi-platform digital service designed to give fans around the world instant 24-hour access to the extensive GFW and IMPACT libraries” – as well as new TV deals with Pop TV, Pluto TV, and 7Sports. Notably, the press release was issued the same day the Sports Illustrated report was published. Perhaps GFW/Impact was in dire financial straits while Barrasso was finalizing his report, and the company struck these deals just in the nick of time? It’s hard to say.
Who do you believe? Do you think GFW is suffering financially or not? Share your thoughts and comments below!