— As has been noted, while the issue regarding Jeff Jarrett being romantically involved with Kurt Angle’s ex-wife Karen came to a boil this week, it had been an ongoing rumor in the lockerroom for some time (and many knew it was a valid rumor). That adds intrigue to reports that Angle threatened to kick Jarrett’s ass if they had an encounter at this weekend’s house show and pay-per-view, since it is unclear why Angle would suddenly react violently to something most believe he knew for months. Many have reported that while the situation is real and a legitimate source of heat at the moment, it would not shock anyone to see Angle and Jarrett bury the tension (as they did in co-existing after their power struggle last year) and use the Jarrett/Karen relationship as fuel for a television fued.
A big factor in the recent lockerroom tension is the internal division regarding the future of TNA’s creative direction. Angle has reportedly said he anticipates receiving booking power, and while numerous reports claim that TNA is not planning to give Angle significantly more influence, there have long been rumors about Jarrett’s influence being in jeopardy. Jarrett has been criticized by many for his creative choices, as the feeling is that TNA has effectively become a weekly television show (rather than a wrestling brand)–its ratings are solid, but live event and pay-per-view revenue is quite low.
— Vince McMahon reportedly laughed hysterically and popped huge for the Pretty Ricky character when R-Truth had his “audition” in front of the creative team. The feeling is that McMahon’s support prompted everyone else to get behind the character, even though some were not impressed.
Source: Wrestling Observer Newsletter
