Many people go to car races to see the crashes. Many people go to hockey games because they like to see the fighting. Wrestling was huge in the 70's and 80's because fans loved watching the circus. There are other examples, but I think you get the point.
Do you think it's possible that people flock to Earl's table just to see the sideshow? If the answer is yes, is THAT what we want pool to become?
Look, I have absolutely nothing against Earl Strickland. He is without a doubt the finest 9-ball player to have ever graced the sport of pool. I have never met him personally, but I believe those when they say he is a great guy to be around away from a tournament table. I just don't think it's okay for him to be sitting in his chair being vocal (sometimes to the point of insulting/condescending) towards opponents or fans while the other contestants are sitting in their chairs acting like the professionals they are perceived to be.
If every pool player acted like Earl does with his tableside (bad) manners, pool would quickly become nothing more than a circus show for the casual fan, no longer worthy to even be called a sport anymore.
And....why don't the other players act up and raise hell tableside? Probably because like myself, they learned growing up than when you lose your turn at the table, you sit in your chair and STFU and be reasonably still. Give your opponents the respect they're due as you would want in return. When I was coming up through the pool halls in my youth, his tableside manners could very well get you hurt.
Just my thoughts....not an Earl hater at all. I just would like pool to continue to be a gentleman's game and retain its professionalism.
Maniac