When "The Nature Boy" was being sent off for his "retirement," many fans & critics alike believe that he was not given the time he deserved to build up the storyline for his exit, and was not ever really called upon/given the opportunity by World Wrestling Entertainment to participate to the build-up for this year’s WrestleMania (XXVI). Others say that Flair joining TNA might taint his legacy in some capacity, so The Big Mosh asked Flair for his reponse on the both of these topics. "I think I would have been included in that (WrestleMania XXVI,) but I had already decided that I would go work for TNA. The ultimate respect I have for the people at the WWE, especially the performers, it was all about the opportunity. When Hulk called me about Australia, I thought ‘why not man?’ I feel good. I’m not hurtin’, I feel like a million bucks, I work out everyday. I’ve got too much energy to be sitting around at home…Ask my wife? Way too much energy…But I felt great so when the opportunity came around, I kinda’ just went ‘Let’s do it.’ And then from there, it evolved to this, but my legacy (after meeting Dixie Carter & being there for two tapings), will be enhanced by being there, and I’ll guarantee you that. And if I haven’t shown you guys that in the last couple of weeks, something’s wrong, because I’m juts getting going. They still got me on a muzzle up there, but when I get going & when they turn me loose in TNA, then we’ll really get going."
Ric was asked if he would like to contribute to the TNA Creative Team in any capacity, and in the process, put his "two cents" in regarding other storylines in the company. Flair’s answer was very straightforward & showed that his role as being the mentor of "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles is where his head & heart is currently. "I have no interest in being part of any of the storylines or creative. If they ask me a question, I’m gonna’ give them an straight answer, because I know a straight answer would be perceived as something I really feel. I don’t get involved in anyone else’s business. I’m there primarily the role is with AJ, to make our part of the show the very best it can be, and he & I will compete together against everyone else on that show…That’s how I live my whole life."
TNA President, Dixie Carter, called in as a special surprise for Monday Night Mayhem’s eight-year anniversary celebration during Ric’s interview to take the time The Mayhem’s crew (past & present) for their support & dedication to TNA Wrestling since the company’s inception. "Every year, everyone said we wouldn’t make it, and every year we celebrate our anniversary together, and I’m so proud.. First of all, I would like to thank your listeners for keeping you guys on the air and growing every year…You guys do a great job. You make wrestling proud, and TNA is very proud to be working with you. On behalf of all the guys here at TNA, we want to say congratulations on eight great years in the business, and you represent wrestling so well, and we’re proud to be a small part of it." She did wish to take the time to have the fans throughout the world know what it has been like working with "The Nature Boy" in TNA Wrestling. "Very proud…a legend. How blessed we are to have him with us." Mayhem Nation: The only place you can hear Ric Flair & Dixie Carter together is exclusively on The Monday Night Mayhem Radio Network.
More is contained in this exclusive interview with the legendary "Nature Boy," including Flair’s uncensored & candid thoughts on his reasons for leaving World Wrestling Entertainment, the strengths & weaknesses he currently sees in TNA Wrestling (and how he feels the company can build & improve in the year ahead), the story behind his friendship with The Post & Courier’s Mike Mooneyham (one that has to be heard if you are a true fan and/or "student of the game"), along with his reactions to hearing a special message for him from his fellow WWE Hall Of Famer, friend, & colleague, "Good Ol’ J.R." Jim Ross. What are Flair’s comments on the rumors of TNA’s interest in signing the long-time voice of the WWE? How much would he like to see that happen? Find out Ric’s answer to this much talked-about question by listening to the eight-year anniversary celebration of "Your Home Of Wrestling Radio," Monday Night Mayhem! Don’t forget to tune into TNA iMPACT this Thursday night (beginning @ 9PM ET/8PM CT on Spike TV), and call your local cable or satellite provider for TNA’s Against All Odds, February 14th live & only on Pay-Per-View.
