I was looking for this thread, but I couldn't find it. So, what is your take on the IFL? Are they here for the long haul?
Personally, I didn't like the team concept at first, but it's starting to grow on me. The thing that I do enjoy are the superfights and of course the featured fights between tough competitors. The only other thing that bothers me is the fact that I just don't know when it airs...the time delay is pretty whack also.
Like you I didn't care for the team concept at 1st either. It sounded kind of gimmicky and cheesey to me. It makes for pretty good TV though, especially if the score is tied and the last fight really matters.
I think the IFL can be successful if they stick with their current format and continue to sell cheap tickets. I don't think they will ever be a competitor to the UFC or PRIDE because it will be tough to pay top fighters the same as the bigger companies do. IFL is a great place for guys at the tail end of their career or guys just getting into the sport and trying to make a name for themselves.
The IFL just signed a new deal with Fox Sports and My Network TV to have more televised fights on national TV. This new TV deal and the additions of more teams in 2007 and 2008 bodes well for the company's future
It's different, and the team concept gives a new direction to MMA. Sure, MMA is a combat sport that involves 2 men trying to beat one another, but the IFL has the team mentality encoded in it. I dig it, and I think it'll be around for a while.
I also really dig the whole "Who's going to be the next coach?" ordeal. It's really cool to see former favorites try their hand at giving a team direction.
It's different from the UFC or PRIDE. Sure, it's a gimmick, but it's a good one. I'm watching, and as long as the competition is good I'll keep watching.
i think the concept is gonna be what keeps it afloat. its different from the ufc or pride and gives mma fans a new way to look at fighting. if they keep putting up good fights then i dont see why it wouldnt last.
Now that the IFL is on My Network TV, it gives me a reason to finally watch that network when there is not a Dallas Stars Hockey Game or a Scrubs rerun.
Will the IFL succeed?
Linear Mode
