Category: TNA

WWE and TNA Announce Multi-Year Partnership

In what many wrestling fans have suspected for months, WWE and TNA Wrestling have officially confirmed their working relationship, solidifying it with a multi-year partnership. The announcement, made via a joint press release on Thursday afternoon, marks a major milestone for both promotions, as two of the biggest names in professional wrestling join forces in an unprecedented collaboration.

Building on a Year of Collaboration

The seeds of this partnership were planted last year, when former TNA Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace made a surprise appearance in the 2024 WWE Royal Rumble. That cameo was followed by a brief stint in NXT for Grace last summer, fueling speculation about a broader working relationship between the two promotions. Over the past year, cross-promotion between TNA talent and WWE’s NXT brand has been met with enthusiasm from fans, paving the way for this formal announcement.

While the press release didn’t go into specifics about whether the partnership would extend to WWE’s main roster, it did confirm that fans can expect continued talent exchanges between TNA and NXT. For now, it seems the focus will remain on developmental and crossover opportunities within these two brands.

A Win-Win for Both Sides

The leadership of both WWE and TNA expressed their excitement about the partnership, framing it as a chance to grow their respective rosters and improve the fan experience. Ariel Shnerer, TNA’s Senior VP of Content & Distribution, emphasized how the partnership has already benefited both companies and their audiences.

“This historic relationship demonstrates that collaboration and competition do not have to be mutually exclusive,” Shnerer said. “Our partnership allows the TNA Wrestling brand and its incredible athletes to reach a significantly wider audience, while giving WWE and NXT stars an opportunity to cross the line and gain valuable experience, as they join forces with one of the most talented rosters in professional wrestling today. The response to our collaboration over the past year has been tremendous, and both companies have benefited—but the fans have reaped the greatest rewards.”

Shawn Michaels Speaks on the Future of NXT and TNA Collaboration

Shawn Michaels, the WWE Hall of Famer and head of NXT, echoed Shnerer’s sentiment, highlighting the opportunities this partnership brings for talent development and fan engagement.

“We look forward to growing and evolving our partnership with TNA Wrestling and its outstanding group of athletes by creating new opportunities to further the development of our talent and to elevate the viewer experience at home,” Michaels said.

The announcement signals an exciting time for both promotions as they work to enhance their programming and strengthen their rosters. Whether it’s NXT stars heading to TNA for new challenges or TNA talent getting the chance to showcase their skills in front of WWE’s global audience, this collaboration promises to shake up the wrestling landscape in ways we haven’t seen before.

What’s Next for WWE and TNA?

While fans may be eager to see main roster crossover events involving Raw or SmackDown, for now, the focus appears to be on the NXT and TNA connection. However, given how open both companies seem to be about this partnership, anything feels possible down the road.

With both brands boasting a wealth of talented wrestlers, the potential for dream matches and unique storytelling is endless. For now, all eyes are on how this partnership will unfold in the coming months—and whether it will inspire other wrestling promotions to consider collaborations of their own.

TNA Genesis 1/19/2024 (Card)

TNA Genesis live on pay-per-view Sunday, January 19, 2025 – Curtis Culwell Center – Dallas, TX.

CARD

TNA World Championship: Nic Nemeth (c) vs. Joe Hendry

TNA X-Divsion Championship: Moose (c) vs. Ace Austin

TNA World Tag Team Championship: The Hardys (c) vs. The Rascalz

TNA Knockouts World Championship – Clockwork Orange House of Fun Match: Masha Slamovich (c) vs. Rosemary

TNA Knockouts World Tag Team Championship: Spitfire (c) vs. Ash & Heather By Elegance w/The Personal Concierge

I Quit Match: Josh Alexander vs. Mike Santana

Jordynne Grace vs. Tessa Blanchard

The System (Eddie Edwards & Brian Myers) w/Alicia Edwards vs. Eric Young & Steve Maclin

(Countdown to Genesis) – Frankie Kazarian vs. Leon Slater

Countdown to Genesis hosted by Busted Open Radio

TNA Impact Preview 1/16/2025

TNA Wrestling will present a new episode of Impact tonight on AXS TV, the last episode before this weekend’s Genesis PPV.

  • Sami Callihan & PCO vs. The Hardys (If Callihan & PCO win, they are added to TNA tag title match at Genesis)
  • Trent Seven vs. Leon Slater
  • Laredo Kid vs. Jake Something
  • Eric Young & Steve Maclin vs. First Class
  • Nic Nemeth & Joe Hendry go face-to-face
  • We’ll hear from Josh Alexander & The Northern Armory
  • Rosemary & Masha Slamovich confessional
  • Ash By Elegance & Heather By Elegance’s Pre-Launch Championship Celebration By Elegance

TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich Appears at WWE NXT, Continuing Crossover Trend

The lines between WWE and TNA continue to blur, as reigning TNA Knockouts World Champion Masha Slamovich made a high-profile appearance at this week’s WWE NXT. Slamovich, one of the most dominant champions in TNA today, was seen sitting ringside during the show, catching attention during a match between Cora Jade and Kelani Jordan.

This isn’t the first time a TNA star has stepped foot in WWE’s developmental brand—last year, Jordynne Grace and Joe Hendry both made waves with appearances on NXT. Now, Slamovich becomes the first TNA talent to cross over in 2025, sparking speculation about what her appearance might mean for both promotions.

A Smirk and a Stare

During the Jade-Jordan match, which centered on both women’s desire to challenge for the NXT Women’s North American Championship, the cameras frequently cut to Slamovich at ringside. Commentary also acknowledged her presence, mentioning her upcoming Knockouts title defense against Rosemary at TNA’s Genesis this weekend. After securing her victory, Jade shot a knowing smirk in Slamovich’s direction—a subtle moment that has left fans buzzing about a potential clash between the NXT standout and the TNA champion in the future.

A Reign of Destruction

Slamovich has been a dominant force in TNA’s Knockouts division, capturing the Knockouts title from Jordynne Grace at Bound for Glory in 2024. Since then, she’s made four successful defenses, including a hard-fought two-out-of-three falls rematch against Grace and a recent win over Tasha Steelz in December. Known for her hard-hitting style and unrelenting intensity, Slamovich has solidified her place as one of the most respected names in women’s wrestling today.

TNA-WWE Crossovers: A Growing Trend

Slamovich’s appearance comes on the heels of Jordynne Grace’s impressive showing in WWE last year. Grace, who also entered WWE as the Knockouts Champion in early 2024, competed in the Women’s Royal Rumble and even challenged Roxanne Perez for the NXT Women’s Championship at Battleground. Her most recent WWE appearance came at NXT 2300 in November, where she joined a star-studded team featuring Stephanie Vaquer, Zaria, Giulia, and Kelani Jordan.

Slamovich’s ringside visit represents the closest she’s come to making an in-ring debut in WWE. The Russian-born powerhouse has made her name on the independent circuit and in TNA, with brief stints in AEW back in 2021. While no official match or storyline has been announced, her presence on NXT hints at exciting possibilities for the future.

What’s Next for Slamovich?

For now, Masha Slamovich’s focus remains on her Knockouts Championship defense against Rosemary at Genesis this weekend. However, her appearance on NXT has opened the door for endless speculation about potential dream matches and storylines. Could Slamovich eventually clash with Cora Jade or another top NXT star? Could this signal deeper collaboration—or even competition—between TNA and WWE?

One thing is clear: Slamovich’s arrival adds another layer of intrigue to WWE NXT, a brand already thriving on fresh faces and compelling matchups.

Stay tuned to Wrestling News Blog for updates on this developing story and coverage of TNA Genesis!

Jeff Hardy Reflects on Redemption, Family, and His Most Meaningful Title Run – “I Came Close To Ending It All In 2022”

Jeff Hardy recently appeared on “The Wrestle Spot” podcast to discuss a variety of topics, including his issues with drugs and alcohol throughout the course of his career.

Hardy said, “This world title run means everything to me because I came close to ending it all in the summer of 2022, which is in public, and people are aware of my issues throughout the years with drugs and alcohol. But coming out the other side of that, I’ve been saying a lot lately that all these failures man, they have led me to salvation. To just be on the other side of that, I get goosebumps just even thinking about being 47 years old and a champion in TNA, back in TNA, where I’ve had a lot of amazing moments and memories that I’ve created. It just means everything to me and my family, the support of my family, my wife and my daughters, oh my god. If they would have gave up on me, I would have totally gave up on myself. So they are my world, I owe them everything.”

He continued, “I owe so much to pro wrestling in general because it’s gave me such an amazing life. But overall, this championship run might end up being the most important championship run of my career, just because I have survived through all these struggles. I’m so ashamed, and I still feel so much shame and guilt, but I gotta’ get past that and just believe in myself and continue to stay on the path that I’m on. Anything is possible for Jeff Hardy moving forward. Who knows? Hopefully, the perfect ending to my career would be to end up in the WWE Hall of Fame and go out on a high note instead of a depressing low, and I feel like that’s going to happen.”

TNA Impact Preview 1/9/2025

TNA Wrestling will present a new episode of Impact tonight on AXS TV as the build continues for Genesis next week.

  • Gauntlet Match: Mike Santana vs. The Northern Armory
  • Nic Nemeth & Ryan Nemeth vs. Joe Hendry & Rhino
  • The Rascalz vs. The Good Hands
  • The System (Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers & JDC) vs. Eric Young, Jonathan Gresham & Steve Maclin
  • Savannah Evans vs. TBD
  • We’ll hear from Jordynne Grace

TNA Impact Preview 1/2/2025

TNA Wrestling will present the first episode of Impact of 2025 tonight on AXS TV.

  • Jordynne Grace, Masha Slamovich & Spitfire vs. Ash By Elegance, Heather By Elegance, Rosemary & Tasha Steelz
  • KUSHIDA vs. Ace Austin
  • Rhino vs. Ryan Nemeth
  • We’ll hear from Jordynne Grace
  • Tessa Blanchard says she will show up
  • Joe Hendry kicks off 2025
  • Nic Nemeth to speak
  • We’ll hear from Mike Santana

JBL Teases Bold Plans for 2025: “I’m Going All In”

WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield, better known as JBL, is proving that his larger-than-life persona extends far beyond the ring. After a year filled with appearances across various wrestling promotions, the former WWE Champion is gearing up for a monumental new chapter in his career.

During a recent interview on the Something To Wrestle With podcast, JBL teased a high-stakes project he’s planning for 2025. Though the specifics remain under wraps, Layfield made it clear that he’s pouring everything into this endeavor, even if it comes with significant risks.

A Leap Into the Unknown

JBL expressed excitement and determination about his upcoming plans, sharing, “I’ve got some really cool plans starting to come together. This year, it’s going to be attempted. I’m 100% sure of that. Whether it works or not, we’ll see—but I think it will. I’m working my tail off to make it happen.”

He also revealed that 2025 is already shaping up to be a milestone year. “I’ve got a couple of really big things not just tentatively planned but actually scheduled and locked in the calendar,” Layfield said. “I’m building everything around those two different places right now.”

The Thrill of Risk

One of the most intriguing aspects of JBL’s announcement is his fearless approach to taking chances. The self-proclaimed “Wrestling God” said, “I’ve been planning this for the better part of a year, and it’s all going to come to fruition. Either it’s going to work big, or I’m going to go down in flames. One of the two—and I don’t care. I’m going all in.”

For fans of JBL, this bold mindset comes as no surprise. Throughout his storied career, Layfield has consistently thrived on challenges, whether in the ring, at the commentary desk, or in his successful ventures outside of wrestling.

What Could JBL Be Planning?

The nature of JBL’s 2025 project remains a mystery, but his comments suggest it could be something ambitious and game-changing. Whether it’s tied to wrestling, business, or another passion entirely, one thing is clear—Layfield is embracing the high-stakes mentality that made him a household name in the first place.

Stay tuned to see how JBL’s vision unfolds. Will he strike gold once again, or will this gamble lead to an unforgettable lesson in risk-taking? Either way, the journey is guaranteed to be as compelling as his in-ring career.

Former NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion Jax Dane Passes Away at 48

The wrestling world is mourning the loss of Jeremy Laymon, better known to fans as Jax Dane. The National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) announced Dane’s passing on Thursday, revealing that the former NWA Worlds Heavyweight Champion died on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, at the age of 48 due to complications from a heart attack he suffered in late November.

A Champion’s Journey

Jax Dane began his professional wrestling career in 2012, making his debut with NWA Houston alongside Raymond Rowe—now known as Erik of WWE’s War Raiders. Together, they formed the tag team “The Path of Resistance,” establishing themselves as a force in the NWA scene.

Dane’s career soon skyrocketed, with appearances in New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW) in 2013, where he squared off with internationally renowned talents like KUSHIDA, Shelton Benjamin, and the team of Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson.

In 2015, Dane achieved a rare feat, capturing both the NWA National Heavyweight Championship and the prestigious NWA Worlds Heavyweight Championship. He claimed the world title by defeating Hiroyoshi Tenzan, a former IWGP Heavyweight Champion, cementing his place in NWA history. Dane held the gold for an impressive 419 days, one of the longest reigns of the modern NWA era, before losing it to Tim Storm in 2016.

Beyond the NWA

After his world title reign, Dane ventured into other major promotions. He appeared in Ring of Honor, Ohio Valley Wrestling, and even IMPACT Wrestling under the name Wilcox. Despite his travels, Dane’s connection to the NWA remained strong. He returned to the organization in 2020, where he secured the NWA National Heavyweight Championship twice more.

Most recently, Dane was seen wrestling in October 2024 on an episode of NWA Powerrr, where he teamed with Tim Storm to defeat Jake Dumas and Zyon. This return to the ring showcased his enduring passion for the sport and his continued commitment to the NWA.

Tributes to a Legend

Tim Storm, a former rival and later a tag team partner of Dane, expressed his admiration and grief in a statement shared by the NWA.

“Very few people have been as influential to my wrestling career as Jax,” Storm said. “He was completely unselfish. That is no more evident than in our current tag team. He put me squarely on his shoulders and made it happen.”

Dane’s legacy in professional wrestling is one of strength, resilience, and generosity. From his dominant title reigns to his willingness to elevate others, Jax Dane’s impact on the sport will not be forgotten.

Remembering Jax Dane

As fans and fellow wrestlers reflect on his storied career, Jax Dane will be remembered as a powerhouse in the ring and a mentor outside of it. His contributions to the NWA and the wider wrestling world leave a lasting imprint, ensuring his legacy endures for years to come.

Rest in peace, Jax Dane.

TNA Wrestling In Active Contract Talks As Talent Departures Shake Up The Roster

TNA Wrestling is keeping busy behind the scenes as they prepare for the new year. According to a report from PWInsider, the company is currently in “active talks” with multiple talents regarding new contracts, signaling an effort to lock in key performers as their roster evolves.

This news comes on the heels of several notable departures. As previously reported, stars like KUSHIDA, Trent Seven, and Rhino have all recently wrapped up their time with TNA. While the promotion hasn’t officially commented on these exits, their departures mark a period of transition for TNA heading into 2024.

For fans tuning into TNA Impact on AXS TV, the next few weeks will feature the promotion’s annual Best of the Year episodes, celebrating standout matches and moments from 2023. The first episode featuring new in-ring content is currently set for January 2nd, kicking off what looks to be a pivotal year for TNA.

With TNA actively working to solidify its roster, the question remains: which talents will stick around, and could we see fresh faces join the promotion as it builds momentum? Stay tuned for updates as TNA’s 2024 plans continue to take shape.