The Complete A-Z Of Wrestling In 2017
15. L - Localisation
Like the XFL and Triple H always winning, 'localisation' was a failed former concept WWE attempted to heave out of a dumpster in 2017, having tried multiple times overt the last decade and a half to diversify their product to suit all corners of the world via bespoke geographically-targeted spinoffs of the main brand.
The project never materialised beyond tours, live shows and occasional (and completely transparent) outreaches to the potential new markets, but 2017 saw the clearest indication yet that the persistently flawed model is still on the agenda.
January's United Kingdom Championship extravaganza was a critical smash, but a lack of creative outlet beyond the two-night tournament robbed a new title of its prestige and numerous British independent companies of some locked-up talents. Jinder Mahal's abject failings in 2017 included not moving the needle remotely in the country he was cynically positioned to court. Losing to 'The Game' in a half-empty arena was perhaps not how 'The Modern Day Maharaja' saw his moment in the sun turning out.
WWE might want to produce local shows for local people, but a league of gentlemen (and women) servicing one sector still seems vastly out of reach.