According to reports by Mike Johnson of PWInsider.com, Ring of Honor and HDNet will part ways ending the television agreement between the two companies effective April 5, 2011. ROH will be holding a series of TV tapings in January that will serve as the final events being provided in a weekly format on HDNet. These final tapings will take place on January 21 and 22 in Philadelphia, PA.
The show, which debuted in March 2009, was signed to a two year agreement and reportedly wasn’t bringing in big numbers due to a lack of brand awareness for HDNet and more mainstream awareness of the ROH product. Any hopes for international television distribution never come to fruition. Despite the agreement ending, ROH and HDNet are in discussions about a live special in 2011.
ROH sources have stated they are now free to pursue other television outlets going forward and are currently exploring options with at least one outlet right now.
ROH’s official statement reads:
“Ring of Honor completed its 2 year TV contract with HDNet. During this time “ROH on HDNet” fans witnessed many great matches, the introduction of the ROH Television Title, and the crowning of new tag champions, among other historical moments. HDNet will air new episodes of ROH until 4/4/11. Please continue to support ROH and watch these new shows on HDNet.
Negotiations are underway for HDNet to broadcast a live special in 2011, and we will bring you more information on that as it becomes available. Ring of Honor Wrestling would like to thank HDNet for the last two years, especially those behind the scenes that made it possible every single TV taping.
The final ROH on HDNet TV tapings are scheduled for January 21st & 22nd in Philadelphia, so come out and support ROH as we close out our weekly run on HDNet.”