by James Caldwell, Assistant editor

When a wrestler or, in the case of Mick Foley, a former wrestler turned authority figure turned announcer, leaves WWE for TNA, the company line is about wanting to help TNA grow, be part of something that could change the wrestling business, and take advantage of the lighter schedule.

Rarely is there a discussion of the talent currently in TNA to show a strong knowledge of the product or wanting to be involved in specific storylines that could enhance the hot-and-cold TV product.

Asked about the advantages of joining TNA in the Charlotte (N.C.) Observer to promote Sunday's PPV, Foley said it's mainly the schedule.

"Travel is more limited. It's a more regular schedule," Foley told Courtney Devores. "I'm glad I had the opportunity to see most of this country and quite a bit of the world, but I have four kids. I'm getting a chance to spend more time with my younger kids than I was able to with my older kids."

Although no specifics were offered on how he could make a difference in the wrestling business working with TNA, Foley said a strong consideration for him personally was believing he couldn't make more of a difference in WWE.

"It felt like I'd done everything I could in WWE," Foley said. "The TNA opportunity sounded like a positive way to make a difference in the wrestling business. I thought I would have some doubts, but it's been a guilt-free move - the best thing I could have done."

Foley said watching "The Wrestler" inspired him to consider an idea he's thrown around in his head for a future fictional story related to a wrestling trip to West Africa in 1987.

"It was a hectic trip, and the government was overthrown within weeks after I left," Foley said. "I had always thought I could tell an interesting tale, but until the critical acclaim of 'The Wrestler,' I didn't think there would be interest."

FYI: TNA's "Genesis" PPV takes place Sunday night at the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte. TNA is offering several discount ticket offers, which readers can find out about here. Foley is returning to the ring in a six-man tag match, teaming with Brother Devon and A.J. Styles.

Link: Charlotte Observer interview with Mick Foley.

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