WWE SmackDown Preview 6/19/2026

WWE Smackdown live tonight at 8/7c on USA Network and Netflix internationally from T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

  • Undisputed WWE Championship Match: Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Gunther (Special Guest Referee: Sami Zayn)
  • WWE Tag Team Championship Match: R-Truth and Damian Priest (c) vs. MFTs
  • Queen of the Ring tournament Semifinal Match: Charlotte Flair vs. Liv Morgan
  • WWE United States Championship #1 Contenders Match: Carmelo Hayes vs. Ricky Saints

Report: TNA Wrestling Moving Toward Developmental Partnership With OVW

TNA Wrestling may soon have an official developmental system in place.

According to PWInsider, TNA and Ohio Valley Wrestling are currently working on an agreement that would see the Louisville-based promotion serve as a developmental territory for TNA talent. The report adds that a deal is expected to be finalized in the near future.

If completed, the partnership would provide TNA with a dedicated platform for developing prospects, evaluating emerging talent, and preparing wrestlers for larger roles within the company.

PWInsider also reports that TNA President Carlos Silva has attended multiple OVW events in recent months, further fueling speculation that discussions between the two organizations have been ongoing behind the scenes. Silva was reportedly expected to attend OVW’s recent celebration of its 1,400th television episode, though he ultimately did not appear at the event.

The potential partnership comes during a period of major transition for TNA. Over the past week alone, the company has undergone significant roster and executive changes.

Tessa Blanchard was released from the promotion earlier this week, while longtime TNA figures Tommy Dreamer and Sami Callihan also departed the company on Wednesday. In addition, TNA recently announced a workforce reduction, describing the move as part of an effort to streamline operations while increasing strategic focus and profitability.

Despite the recent changes, a developmental relationship with OVW could represent an important investment in TNA’s future.

OVW has a long history of developing wrestling talent and is one of the most recognizable developmental brands in the industry. The promotion previously served as WWE’s developmental territory during the early 2000s and helped launch the careers of numerous future stars.

A formal partnership would give TNA access to an established training and developmental infrastructure while creating a clearer pathway for unsigned prospects and younger talent to progress through the system.

The news is also notable given TNA’s ongoing multi-year partnership with WWE, which began in January 2025. While there is currently no indication that WWE would be directly involved in any OVW arrangement, the relationship between WWE and TNA continues to be one of the more significant collaborations in professional wrestling.

As of now, neither TNA nor OVW has officially announced the agreement, but all indications point to a deal being completed in the near future. If finalized, it could mark a major step in TNA’s efforts to strengthen its talent pipeline during a period of significant organizational change.

Sami Callihan Fired From TNA Wrestling Following Behind-the-Scenes Shakeup

Sami Callihan’s time with TNA Wrestling has officially come to an end.

Callihan revealed on Wednesday that he has been released by the company, bringing an end to a tenure that saw him contribute both on-screen and behind the scenes in a variety of roles.

According to Callihan, he was expecting a phone call regarding a possible promotion within TNA’s creative structure. Instead, he received news that the company was moving in a different direction and that his employment was being terminated.

The departure comes during a period of significant change within TNA, which has recently seen several roster exits and major shifts behind the scenes, including Tommy Dreamer’s departure from the creative team.

Fightful Select reports that Callihan was highly regarded throughout the organization. Sources within both the talent roster and company staff reportedly viewed him as a respected figure, and several wrestlers had been advocating for months to see him become more involved with the creative process.

Beyond his work as a performer, Callihan had taken on a number of important backstage responsibilities. He served as both an agent and producer and was considered a popular presence within the locker room.

His influence also extended into TNA’s business operations. Following his retirement from active in-ring competition, Callihan became heavily involved in the company’s marketing efforts. He reportedly played a major role in revitalizing TNA’s merchandise department and was responsible for designing and producing much of the company’s merchandise over the last year.

The combination of creative, production, and marketing duties made Callihan one of the promotion’s more versatile behind-the-scenes contributors.

While his TNA chapter has come to a close, Callihan is not expected to be away from wrestling for long. He remains the driving force behind Pro Wrestling Revolver, the independent promotion he founded, and will continue overseeing and producing events for the company.

Given the positive reputation he reportedly held backstage, it will be interesting to see whether another major promotion looks to utilize Callihan’s experience in a creative or production role in the future.

For now, TNA continues to undergo significant organizational changes, with Callihan becoming the latest notable name to exit the company during a busy and transformative period.

TNA Thursday Night iMPACT! Preview 6/18/2026

TNA Thursday Night iMPACT! tonight at 9/8c on AMC.

  • Indi Hartwell vs. Elayna Black
  • Moose & The Hardys vs. Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers & Bear Bronson
  • Mustafa Ali, John Skyler & Jason Hotch vs. K.C. Navarro, Mike Santana & Nic Nemeth
  • Ricky Sosa vs. TBA
  • Frankie Kazarian’s The King’s Speech with Leon Slater and Cedric Alexander
  • Xia Brookside appears

AEW Dynamite Preview 6/17/2026

AEW Dynamite live tonight at 8/7c on TBS and HBO Max from the Smart Financial Centre in Sugar Land, Texas.

  • MJF and Mark Briscoe announce their teams for Forbidden Door Steel Cage
  • Women’s Owen Hart Cup Tournament Semifinal: Mercedes Mone’ vs. Hazuki
  • 12-Man Tag Team Match: Team MJF vs. Team Briscoe
  • Will Ospreay and Swerve Strickland face-to-face

D’Lo Brown Weighs In On The Possibility Of The Rock’s Seven Bucks Productions Purchasing WWE

Could The Rock one day own WWE? According to former WWE star D’Lo Brown, it’s not as far-fetched as some fans might think.

Speaking on The Coach & Bro Show with Jonathan Coachman and Vince Russo, Brown discussed a scenario in which Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and his Seven Bucks Productions company could eventually acquire WWE from TKO Group Holdings.

The conversation began when Coachman floated the idea of The Rock taking control of WWE and potentially installing longtime collaborator Brian Gewirtz in a leading creative role. Brown responded by saying he could envision such a move happening down the line.

“I could see Seven Bucks trying to buy WWE and Rock owning it all,” Brown said.

Brown also addressed the longstanding speculation surrounding the relationship between Johnson and WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque. According to Brown, there has always been a competitive dynamic between the two dating back to their days as top stars during WWE’s Attitude Era.

“Paul and Dwayne don’t like each other, and they are definitely oil and water,” Brown claimed, while noting there are both on-screen and backstage elements to their relationship.

The Rock and Triple H famously feuded throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s, helping define one of WWE’s most successful periods. Over the years, reports and rumors have occasionally surfaced regarding tension between the two behind the scenes, though neither man has publicly suggested that any personal issues currently affect WWE operations.

Coachman went a step further during the discussion, referencing his previous prediction that Triple H could eventually be removed from his creative leadership position. That prediction was largely based on the belief that Johnson’s influence within WWE could continue to grow.

However, recent reports suggest TKO remains firmly behind Triple H. Earlier this year, it was reported that Levesque signed a new multi-year agreement with the company, reinforcing his role as the executive overseeing WWE’s creative direction.

As for The Rock, his influence within WWE has undeniably increased since joining TKO’s board of directors. In addition to his executive role, Johnson has remained involved on-screen through his “Final Boss” character, making several high-profile appearances over the past few years.

Despite the speculation, there is currently no indication that WWE is for sale or that Seven Bucks Productions is pursuing an acquisition. For now, the idea remains just that—a hypothetical scenario discussed by former WWE personalities.

Still, given The Rock’s business success, his growing influence within WWE, and his position on TKO’s board, comments like Brown’s are certain to spark debate among wrestling fans about what the company’s future ownership structure could look like years down the road.

Tommy Dreamer Exits TNA, Road Dogg Reportedly Among Possible Creative Replacements

A major shakeup has hit TNA Wrestling’s creative team, as longtime company figure Tommy Dreamer has announced his departure from the promotion.

During Wednesday’s episode of Busted Open Radio, Dreamer revealed that he and TNA had mutually agreed to end their working relationship. The announcement comes amid a period of significant change within the company, which has recently seen several talent departures and backstage restructuring.

According to Dreamer, the decision was made following a conversation with TNA President Carlos Silva.

“Yesterday, I had a great conversation with Carlos Silva, and me and TNA are no longer in a relationship. We’ve mutually agreed to part ways,” Dreamer said.

Dreamer reflected on his lengthy history with the promotion, emphasizing that he leaves without bitterness despite the emotional nature of the decision.

“I’ve given so much of my life to that company. I don’t have any ill will or malice. I want it to survive, and I want it to be the best it can be.”

The former ECW Champion has worn many hats in TNA over the years, serving as a performer, producer, mentor, and key member of the creative team. His influence behind the scenes has been significant, particularly during the company’s rebuilding efforts in recent years.

Backstage Reaction To The Change

Following Dreamer’s announcement, Fightful Select reported that while he remained well-liked within the organization, some talent had become increasingly critical of aspects of TNA’s creative direction over the last several years.

The report also noted that at least one source within the company had anticipated Dreamer’s departure, though there was an expectation that any transition would take place after next weekend’s Slammiversary pay-per-view rather than beforehand.

Who Could Take Over?

According to PWInsider, Delirious is expected to serve as the lead figure on TNA’s creative team in the immediate future. Delirious has been heavily involved behind the scenes and worked closely with Dreamer, making him a logical short-term choice to help guide creative plans.

However, the long-term picture may be less clear.

Fightful Select reports that rumors have already begun circulating regarding a possible replacement, with WWE Hall of Famer Road Dogg aka Brian James said to be among the names being discussed internally.

Road Dogg has extensive experience in creative roles, having worked as a writer and producer for WWE across multiple eras. While there is currently no indication that a deal has been reached, his name being linked to the position will undoubtedly generate discussion among fans.

A Major Turning Point For TNA

Dreamer’s departure represents one of the most significant backstage changes TNA has undergone in recent years. Combined with recent roster exits and ongoing organizational changes, the company appears to be entering a new phase heading into Slammiversary.

Whether Delirious ultimately remains in charge or TNA looks outside the company for a permanent creative leader remains to be seen. Either way, Dreamer’s exit closes a notable chapter in the promotion’s history and raises important questions about the direction TNA will take moving forward.

WWE NXT Preview 6/16/2026

WWE NXT tonight on at 8/7c on The CW and Netflix internationally.

  • NXT North American Championship #1 Contenders Match: Tavion Heights vs. Jackson Drake
  • WWE Women’s Speed Tournament First-Round Match: Layla Diggs vs. Arianna Grace
  • WWE Women’s Speed Tournament First-Round Match: Izzi Dame vs. Thea Hail
  • Nattie vs. Jaida Parker
  • Naraku and Tony D’Angelo face to face

Report: Tessa Blanchard Granted Release From TNA

TNA Wrestling’s recent wave of roster departures reportedly continues, as Tessa Blanchard is said to have parted ways with the company.

According to Fightful Select, Blanchard requested and received her release from TNA. As of this writing, TNA has not publicly commented on the report or officially confirmed her departure.

The reported exit brings an end to Blanchard’s second run with the promotion. She originally competed in TNA from 2018 to 2020, establishing herself as one of the company’s top stars during that period. Her accomplishments included reigns as Knockouts Champion and TNA World Heavyweight Champion, making her one of the most decorated performers in company history.

However, her first tenure ended under controversial circumstances. During her championship run, allegations regarding past racist behavior and bullying resurfaced, generating significant backlash. Around the same time, Blanchard was unable to appear for TNA during the COVID-19 pandemic while serving as world champion, ultimately leading to her release from the company.

When she returned to TNA in late 2024, fan reaction was mixed, with some audiences continuing to reference the previous controversy during her appearances.

Before re-signing with TNA, Blanchard had been working extensively for Mexico’s Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL), where she captured the CMLL World Women’s Tag Team Championship alongside Lluvia. Although she initially stepped away from CMLL after returning to TNA, she resumed working for the promotion in 2025 and continued making appearances there while remaining under the TNA banner.

That dual affiliation reportedly became a point of tension behind the scenes. Recent reports indicated that some within TNA were unhappy with Blanchard continuing to work for CMLL, particularly given the complex relationships between WWE, TNA, AAA, AEW, and CMLL.

One match that reportedly drew attention was Blanchard’s bout against Persephone during CMLL’s WrestleMania weekend event in April. Persephone is associated with both CMLL and AEW, and the situation reportedly created frustration among certain decision-makers connected to TNA.

While nothing has been officially confirmed, speculation has emerged that Blanchard may have been forced to choose between continuing her relationship with CMLL or remaining with TNA. If true, the report suggests she opted to continue her work in Mexico.

With Blanchard now reportedly gone, TNA has seen several notable names leave the company in recent weeks, following the reported departures of Myla Grace and former TNA World Champion Steve Maclin.

For now, fans will be waiting to see whether Blanchard addresses the situation publicly and what her next move will be as she continues her career outside of TNA.

Amazing Red Set For First TNA Appearance In 15 Years At Slammiversary 2026

TNA Wrestling has officially announced the return of one of the most influential stars in X-Division history.

The company confirmed that Amazing Red will be part of Slammiversary 2026, marking his first appearance for TNA since 2011. The pay-per-view takes place on June 28 at Agganis Arena in Boston.

Red was originally scheduled to make a one-off return during a TNA event in April 2020, but those plans were canceled when the show was called off due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, more than 15 years after his last TNA appearance, the former X-Division standout is finally set to step back into a TNA ring.

While TNA has not revealed exactly what role Red will play at Slammiversary, speculation is already centered around the Ultimate X match for the X-Division Championship. Cedric Alexander is scheduled to defend the title against Leon Slater and four additional competitors who have yet to be officially announced.

With multiple spots still available, many fans believe Red could be one of the participants in the high-risk contest that helped define his legacy.

Few wrestlers are more closely associated with the early success of the X-Division than Amazing Red. His innovative offense and fast-paced style played a major role in shaping the division during its formative years, influencing an entire generation of wrestlers who followed.

Outside of TNA, Red continued to leave his mark on the industry by founding House of Glory Wrestling, a promotion that has grown into one of the most respected independent organizations in the United States. He remains active both as a performer and as a trainer through the House of Glory wrestling school.

Slammiversary is shaping up to be one of TNA’s biggest events of the year, and the addition of a returning legend like Amazing Red adds another layer of excitement to an already stacked card.

Whether he ends up competing in Ultimate X or finds himself involved in another capacity, fans will finally get to see the former three-time X-Division Champion make his long-awaited return to TNA later this month.

TNA Slammiversary (Sunday, June 28) —

  • TNA World Champion Mike Santana defends against Nic Nemeth
  • Knockouts World Champion Lei Ying Lee defends against Xia Brookside
  • Ladder match: TNA Tag Team Champions Brian Myers & Bear Bronson defend against The Hardys and The Righteous
  • Moose vs. Eddie Edwards
  • Ultimate X match: X-Division Champion Cedric Alexander defends against Leon Slater and four other competitors to be announced
  • Ricky Sosa vs. Eric Young
  • Knockouts Tag Team Champions The Elegance Brand defend against Allie & Rosemary