Even though it seemed sudden, the relaunch of ECW was in the mind of Vince McMahon for quite a while after the success of last year’s pay-per-view. Writers and bookers were so impressed with the turn out they wanted to start a storyline to bring back the brand in 2005. But WWE opted to concentrate on the building SmackDown and RAW champions Batista and John Cena. WWE formally had discussions of starting up an ECW brand after the fast sellout of tickets of the second One Night Stand pay-per-view. To Vince McMahon, more than anyone else, it indicated that ECW was more than just a reunion show to the fans.
In 2001 WWE bought the ECW brand and the intellectual property and video tape library for over $3 million. WWE decided it was time to earn a faster return on the investment than just the long-term benefits of its inclusion in the "24/7" channel, DVD compilation footage, and the annual pay-per-views.
The ECW brand will operate under the WWE parent company and will have its own teams to run day-to-day operations. Bookings and talent will go through WWE management but it is said that Paul Hayeman will have carte blanche in running the brand.
WWE will use current road agents to book matches and handle operations on the road. WWE has already booked Nutter Center in Dayton, Ohio for the first ECW-specific show with Raw and Smackdown talent also booked for the show which will be broadcast as a USA Network special. Afterwards, ECW will debut as a single brand at the ECW Arena on 6/24.
ECW will start out in smaller venues and slowly build up to larger arenas. WWE is looking for a late night time slot to place the show in. Either on USA Network or one of its sister stations under the Universal Network umbrella.
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[ Source: Pro Wresting Torch Newsletter ]
