Was the original ECW really that good?

Not trying to sound like an asshole, but if it wasn't for that "joke of a company" Jeff Hardy likely doesn't have a career. Seeing as you're using his image in your avi, I suspect you are a fan. Thank ECW for Hardy being able to find a niche in the world of pro wrestling. Hardy never competed in ECW, but without their influence on the WWF Attitude (and yes, ECW did influence the WWF immensely) Hardy never would have found a role in the WWF.

ECW was different, it was counterculture. It's failure was becoming too popular. Had it stayed small, like ROH, it's probably still around in some capacity today.

That said, I also think that it was the right company at the right time. There was a expiry date on the type of pro wrestling they were presenting to the consumer. I have no doubt that Paul Heyman would have found a way to revolutionize the industry again by transforming ECW into something new when a change was needed.

ECW was not for everyone, but it was much more than just chair shots and blood. It had some great wrestlers too. For every Sandman, there's a Chris Benoit. For every Sabu, there's a Dean Malenko. All ECW did was tap into a segment of the market that wasn't being serviced by the WWF and WCW. It helped to influence the Attitude Era, no doubt. ECW will be fondly remembered by this fan.

E-C-Dub! E-C-Dub! E-C-Dub!