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Billy Corgan loves wrestling (here he is with Mexican wrestlers at a 2010 MTV World Stages event). That’s an understatement, as many wrestling fans realize. I don’t know much about the sport, but some of my friends keep me up to date on the industry. Billy dislikes a lot of things, and he’ll let you know it. When he likes something (CATS), he’ll let you know that too. There are few things that Billy loves more than watching two guys thrash about in a ring, and he can philosophize endlessly on the subject. Like a rat in a cage, holding a cat and watching wrestling. Now Billy has accepted a full-time job as a TNA wrestling producer. He’ll write scripts and dream up storylines too:

Corgan will develop characters and create story lines for TNA’s flagship program IMPACT WRESTLING, broadcast Fridays at 9 p.m. EST/8 CST on Destination America, as well as other TNA programming.

“I’ve known Billy for years and have always been blown away by his musical artistry, as well as his knowledge and understanding of professional wrestling,” TNA President Dixie Carter said in a release. “He has always impressed me with his creativity and passion for our business. Billy is truly gifted and understands the emotion tied to the psychology of connecting with an audience. The more we talked, the more I realized his perspective has the potential to make a huge impact on our brand.”

Corgan said in a release: “Saying I’m humbled and honored by this opportunity to be part of TNA, a world-class wrestling organization, is an understatement and a dream come true. What’s great is the entire TNA organization stands in full support of my music life with the Smashing Pumpkins. In return, I’m fully committed to using my 30 years of entertainment experience, along with my deep-rooted passion for pro wrestling, to take on the thrilling challenge of creatively contributing to IMPACT WRESTLING, finding and developing new talent, and working eye-to-eye with the best-of-the-best. For as cultures currently evolve at great speed, so must pro wrestling meet and supersede such expectations to thrive.”

[From Miami Herald]

The announcement continues to pour the Corgan praise from a heavy ladle, describing him as “a powerhouse” and “an ardent historian of professional wrestling and a true visionary” with “pioneering perspectives.” The sport of pro wrestling is nothing if not enthusiastic.

I think this is a fine outlet for Billy, and he’s very passionate about wrestling. I also like how upfront pro wrestling is when they admit that most of what happens in the ring is staged. Sure, it’s a little odd that these guys dress up and costumes and “beat each other up,” but this is show business, baby. Pro wrestling is no more bizarre than a superhero movie. So what does this do to Billy’s music career?

Photos courtesy of Getty & WENN