Brian--

You have thought this out a lot, and I am glad. I still want to hear more people's thoughts on the pros and cons.

I am wondering if there is any way legally to indemnify anyone from being sued for libel (if you record it as a voice file and it is played, then I suppose it would be slander, but you're right....libel is printed). Does anyone know if other sites have anything that keeps people from being sued for libel? Also, do local laws apply or US laws since AX is based in the US? I also think the chances of lawsuits happening with a verified forum, while existent, would be unlikely since, as you said, we'd (hopefully) be building a more tight-knit community where people know each other, where stirrers aren't as present, and people would be less likely to say things they'd get sued for.

Also, the teaser idea is intriguing. I think there are some message forums that do that. I know the standard MSN-type "start your own club with message forum here" things do not permit you to view people's profiles at all unless you are a registered user. Also, Brian, to the existing 2600 AX members, you do, as you say, have a great reputation for protecting our privacy. But that reputation won't likely carry over to NEW members who don't know you or this site. I wonder if people who see the site for the first time are going to think "great, I can't even see the full message, nor even see the fighter database....they REALLY want me to give them my personal info.....WHY?" I think for new members, they would be automatically suspicious and reluctant to join. But can AX's reputation and word of mouth advertising we're so good at overcome that and still get newbies to join? I mean, most people probably DO join because someone at their gym who they know and trust recommends the site. Maybe that will grow AX regardless of new restrictions?

Anyway, sorry for the long post, but fortunately for y'all, my train of thought does have a caboose. Just some more thoughts to ponder or write off, as you see fit.