TNA Wrestling Bans Blading & Intentional Bleeding

In a major policy shift, TNA Wrestling has officially banned blading—putting an end to a 22-year tradition that often showcased the “Crimson Mask” as a gritty badge of honor in the company’s storytelling. The announcement, reported by PWInsider, was delivered to talent during a locker room meeting held on Friday, May 2.

The new directive outlaws the practice of intentional bleeding, marking the first time since TNA’s 2002 inception that the company has taken a firm stance against it. While accidents will still be understood as part of the risk of in-ring work, deliberate bloodletting—long a staple of hardcore bouts and personal feuds—will no longer be permitted.

Despite this, fans can still expect to see blood in the upcoming Dog Collar Match between International Champion Steve Maclin and Eric Young. That bout, which was taped on May 1 prior to the policy being enacted, is still set to air with its original content intact. However, it’s expected to be one of the last high-profile examples of blading in the promotion moving forward.

This change also comes after the recent very bloody Barbed Wire Massacre Match at TNA Unbreakable between Sami Callihan and Mance Warner

The change is being attributed to multiple factors. Health and safety were cited as top priorities in the decision, especially as concerns about infections and long-term damage continue to evolve in the wrestling world. In addition, TNA is reportedly making a concerted effort to appeal to a broader audience and maintain strong relationships with current and potential advertising partners—many of whom view excessive blood as a liability.

This move brings TNA in line with WWE’s long-standing approach. WWE famously banned blading in 2008 during the PG era, though there have been recent exceptions. Notably, Gunther busted open Jimmy Uso in a brutal match on SmackDown, suggesting that WWE may be more open to blood—albeit in a controlled, storyline-driven context.

For longtime TNA fans, this marks the end of an era that helped distinguish the promotion from its more sanitized mainstream counterpart. Still, it’s clear the company is prioritizing professionalism and growth as it continues to rebuild its brand under the revived TNA banner.

Do you think this policy change helps or hurts TNA’s product moving forward?