Convergence in Wrestling

Speaking of convergence, there's this new concept in wrestling called, "Cyber Sunday." It's a pay-per-view event in which the fans supposedly create the entire pay-per-view. What WWE's doing is they give the fans a website to go to where they can vote for who wrestles who, what stipulations are involved in the match, right down to the attire of what the female wrestlers are wearing. It's touted as putting the fans in 'complete control of the situation.'

However, much like Star Wars' fan films, they're in complete control "ONLY if....." For example, they'll give you the following choice: "Who do you want to challenge Randy Orton for the title?" They'll give you three choices: "Shawn Michaels - Mr. Kennedy - Jeff Hardy." By that, they're limiting what the fans can actually control.

FURTHERMORE, using that same example, they'll announce the pay-per-view months in advance, but every week on TV, they'll make the 'companies pick' look like the stronger, more viable choice. For instance, they'll give you the three choices, but Shawn Michaels will be winning every week, getting the most television time, and put in situations where he lays out the other two picks. Meanwhile, Mr. Kennedy and Jeff Hardy could be burried, losing in the opening matches, all in an attempt to sway the votes.

Overall, I think it's pretty smart business. Make the fans think they have a choice so they're happy, meanwhile influence their decision so it's best for business overall.