James Beard 20 Years Ago

I remember seeing James for the first time on ESPN/Global Wrestling Federation. Very solid in ring official.

You don't have to be in a suit in order to let people know you're the "boss".  But you do at least have to be in casual type clothes. 

Plus you have a lot of promoters that are also workers (obvious reasons why they run a company most times). 

Let me be clear, what I am about to say is no reflection on Mr. Beard; a man whose pedigree and contributions to the industry I admire and respect.

Disclaimer done, there is a salient saying: "clothes make the man." Prior to my mid-2011 retirement from a full-time senior managerial with the #2 public transportation entity in the world, I maintained a strict dress policy. That policy mandated businesslike attire to specifically include (for males) a necktie.

At some subordinate levels under my jurisdiction, it was clear that a business suit was expected.

Why?

Because it was my belief (that remains) that formal business attire frames perspective, stimulates thought processes and commands respect from subordinates.

How, then, does this apply in professional wrestling? I can tell you for an absolute fact that every time I saw Vince McMahon Senior, he was in a suit. Be it behind the scenes at Madison Square Garden or in that mysterious office in Manhattan's Holland Hotel. So were his top lieutenants like Arnold Skaaland and Gorilla Monsoon.

Image is important. Image in the ring contains the ingredient of ring-wear (attire). It helps to put-over the gimmick. It counts toward credibility.

So too, does this apply to the promoter. I understand "business casual." I do not get nor accept "business sloppy." If a promoter wants to stand out as the top executive in the eyes of sponsors, patrons and his/her locker room, the promoter needs to dress the part.

When my partner Phil Varlese and I met with important sponsors and venue landlords, we dressed in a style designed to objectively manifest the professionalism of our promotion. When Larry Brannon and I traveled many miles to secure venues and technical support for the Ring Warriors brand, we did the same.

Perception counts. And it is under an individual's complete self-control.

Yep, you were one of the people I was thinking of, David Fuller does at most shows as well.

One of the reasons Louis Thez held the title as long as he did was because he not only looked like a champion in the ring, but out of the ring. He was in a suit and tie when he was out and about.