You Can’t Spell Elite Without E-L-I

The new GFW Champion is already among wrestling’s elite talents.

Andrew Balaz
Aug 28, 2017 · 3 min read

Listen to it, the undeniable kavorka of new GFW Global Champion, E-LI Drake. What may be seen as insignificant to some, is actually a huge step towards building a new foundation for the company. GFW has a lot of work ahead of them to repair the damage the old TNA moniker did to the brand. Let me talk to you Dummies, on how Eli Drake is not more of the same, but, the guy to change the game.

His beginnings in the company were fairly lackluster, as a part of The Rising, he was really nothing more than Drew Galloway’s cronie. Then he did what anyone sick of playing second banana would do, smacked Drew with a crutch to cost him a title opportunity. It was at this point Eli could be himself, and not have to bend to being part of someone else’s group.

Even though his initial run at being his own man started off…less than stellar, it was building towards something. Every promo he’d cut, he gave a little more of himself, and we got what many people cry for all over the internet…attitude. What can be described as a little bit of Chris Jericho/The Rock style of verbally eviscerating a man while playing to the crowd, mixed in nicely with a tough Stone Cold Steve Austin brand of physicality, he’s nearly the perfect storm.

These things bode wonderfully for a fledgling brand like GFW. Using some logic from the old territory days, if GFW wants to gain traction and eyeballs, they need a captivating figure to lead their brand. Ric Flair drew a house back in the day, not only because he was a top wrestler, but because his persona was infectious. The full of himself heel, that thinks he can beat every man and sleep with every woman, the formula is time tested and mother approved.

Some questions have come up regarding his ability in the ring and if it’s strong enough to compete with the other companies fighting for “second place”. When it comes down to ability to work a crowd and a match, Eli has proven himself numerous times. Most recently, the Slammiversary 15 match, wherein, he was the one working with D’Angelo Williams for most of the more elaborate spots, helping Williams go over and look like a million bucks.

Going over all of the points, it’s impossible not to give the direction a chance. After GFW had a fairly strong showing at AAA Triplemania 25, as well as Eddie Edwards being the first gaijin to win the GHC title, we could have some great matches in the future. Since Eli is so over, even with a notoriously tourist filled crowd, he can play both Heel and Face, which could translate well on a local and global platform.

All in all, GFW has been trending upwards in both quality and decision making. So let’s get on the gravy train that is Eli Drake, and ride it straight to the bank.

That’s not just a saying…that — is just a fact of life!

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Andrew Balaz

Written by

Opinionated Sports & Entertainment enthusiast.

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