Thanks for the reply, Jack....
I appreciate you recognizing that I haven't bashed/ disrespected the PDI (nor will I).
My point was that the half of the lineup you think you would have beaten at last years NY Pro, isn't the group the paying public was paying to see...they pay to see the names.
By perception isn't based on my affiliation with the IFBB, NPC, or any of the 25+ year friendships, associations I've built...it's based on simple economics and knowing what people are willing to pay for.
Much like there were some damn good athletes in the USFL, XFL, WCW, etc....the bottom line was the fans didn't embrace them, and didn't support them with their dollars.
There are some good athletes in Europe...that no one knows here, that no one knows anything about...the key would to try and create a fanbase with magazine exposure. Will the mags be receptive to showcasing athletes that don't live here on a reg basis? Will European sponsorship last for long with shows put on in the US?
There are a million questions that have yet to be answered...and the only way they will get answered is when the first PDI show takes place. Until then we can speculate all we want, and it's good fodder for the boards...thats about it.
I wish you the best my friend, hopefully this will work out for yourself and the other athletes involved.
Chick, as I expected, you answered with class and dignity, thats why I am a fan of yours. Thank you for the respect, seriously,, and yes,, we shall see.
On a different note, got to say, I was on an elevator with you and some powerlifters @ the Arnold, in the hotel. I just had to say, you were cracking on liners, and I was laughing my ass off.
When you retire form comp. you should be a comdedian, you are funny aas hell.
I continue to be one of your fans.....
jack