Tag: TNA

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

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.

TNA Faces Major Roster Shake-Up As Multiple Stars Are Exiting The Company

TNA Wrestling is entering 2024 with some significant changes, as the company prepares for a wave of talent departures. Following Final Resolution and the most recent TNA Impact tapings, several key names appear to be closing out their runs with the promotion, signaling a major shake-up for the roster heading into the new year.

KUSHIDA Nearing the End of His TNA Run

One of the most notable names preparing to exit is Japanese star KUSHIDA. According to Fightful Select, KUSHIDA is currently wrapping up his last contracted run with TNA. While he’s been a prominent part of the promotion, KUSHIDA’s primary focus seems to be shifting back to New Japan Pro Wrestling (NJPW), where he and Kevin Knight are the current IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Champions. The duo will defend their titles at Wrestle Kingdom 19 on January 4, a clear indicator that NJPW will become his main priority moving forward.

KUSHIDA’s exit will leave a void in TNA’s international presence, as his blend of technical precision and high-flying style has been a key highlight for fans over the past year.

Trent Seven Officially Departs

Another international talent saying farewell is Trent Seven. Reports from PWInsider confirm that Seven has wrapped up his time with TNA, placing him alongside his Speedball Mountain partner “Speedball” Mike Bailey in the free-agent pool. Seven’s departure marks the end of his brief but impactful run with the company, where he delivered standout performances both as a singles competitor and in tag team action.

Jade Chung and Josh Alexander Eye Free Agency

Behind the scenes, Jade Chung has also exited TNA. Chung, who served as a ring announcer and on-screen personality, has officially confirmed her departure, a move supported by her husband, Josh Alexander. Interestingly, Alexander—one of TNA’s top stars and a former World Champion—could also be testing the waters of free agency in the near future. His potential departure would be a major blow to TNA, as Alexander has been a cornerstone of the promotion over the last several years.

Other Big Names on the Move

These exits join a growing list of talent either leaving TNA or reportedly considering their next steps. Among them:

  • Rhino, a TNA Hall of Famer, recently wrestled his final match at the latest Impact tapings, marking the end of an era. On the latest edition of Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer reported that talent was asked to take a pay cut, which factored into Rhino’s exit. He said, “One of the things that happened was a lot of the talent was asked to take pay cuts, I don’t know how many, that was among the reasons Rhino left. So he left. His last match would have been on Saturday.”
  • AJ Francis (formerly known as Top Dolla in WWE) will become a free agent unless he receives a new contract offer before the year’s end.
  • Jordynne Grace, one of TNA’s most decorated Knockouts Champions, is rumored to be WWE-bound once her contract officially expires. Grace’s potential move to WWE has been a hot topic, given her star power and dominance in the Knockouts division.

What’s Next for TNA?

While the departures mark the end of an era for many familiar faces, TNA has long been a company that thrives on reinvention. The upcoming months will likely focus on rebuilding and introducing new talent to fill the gaps left behind. With stars like KUSHIDA, Trent Seven, and Jordynne Grace making waves across wrestling’s global landscape, TNA’s roster shake-up could serve as an opportunity for emerging talent to rise to the occasion.

For fans, the biggest question remains: Who will step up to lead TNA into 2024? As the promotion enters a new chapter, one thing’s for sure—change is coming, and all eyes will be on TNA to see how they adapt in the year ahead.

TNA Star Hammerstone To Undergo Surgery

Hammerstone suffered a knee injury at Turning Point and was pulled from the Final Resolution pay-per-view event.

Taking to Twitter on Saturday, the TNA wrestler announced that he’ll be undergoing surgery. He wrote,

“An unfortunate update. Surgery scheduled.”

Backstage Details On Tessa Blanchard’s TNA Return

TNA Wrestling delivered a shocking twist at Final Resolution 2024 as Tessa Blanchard made her highly polarizing return to the company. Blanchard, whose exit in 2020 was riddled with controversy, re-emerged to attack Jordynne Grace, setting the stage for what appears to be a heated new rivalry.

During Grace’s match against Rosemary, a masked figure—draped in a ski mask and coat—interfered, blindsiding the former Knockouts Champion. The intruder revealed herself after delivering a devastating Hammerlock DDT, pulling back the mask to confirm her identity as none other than Tessa Blanchard. The crowd reacted with a mix of shock and audible disapproval as Blanchard posed confidently, signaling her intent to reclaim her spot in TNA.

Blanchard’s history with TNA Wrestling is both groundbreaking and controversial. In 2020, she made history by becoming the first woman to win the TNA World Championship after defeating Sami Callihan at Hard to Kill. However, her departure later that year turned sour after reports surfaced that she refused to return the championship belt and allegedly demanded more money to vacate the title. Compounding the controversy, allegations of bullying and racial misconduct—specifically involving wrestler La Rosa Negra—further stained her legacy.

Blanchard’s return was reportedly kept under wraps from much of the TNA roster and staff, a move likely made to avoid leaks and backlash. According to Fightful Select, sources within TNA, WWE, and AEW were in disbelief at the decision to bring Blanchard back, given her turbulent past. However, it seems TNA higher-ups are banking on her ability to move forward, with reports suggesting she is set to be on her “best behavior” for this new run.

Interestingly, Jordynne Grace has been at the center of the situation, both as Blanchard’s first target and as part of TNA’s larger plans. With Grace rumored to be leaving the company soon—alongside Josh Alexander and “Speedball” Mike Bailey—Blanchard’s return appears to be a strategic move to fill a looming void in TNA’s roster.

Not everyone in the locker room is thrilled about the decision. Grace, in particular, has reportedly pushed back against the idea of working with Blanchard, and it remains to be seen how the rest of the TNA roster will respond. Still, there are some within the company who remain friends with Blanchard and believe her fresh start could be successful if handled correctly.

The decision to bring Blanchard back was not influenced by new Anthem Sports President Carlos Silva, who recently stepped into the role. Instead, the move reportedly came from an unnamed Anthem higher-up, signaling that Blanchard’s return has been in the works for some time.

With her reintroduction as a heel, it’s clear TNA is leaning into Blanchard’s divisive reputation to fuel her character. The question now is whether fans—and the locker room—will embrace this second chapter for one of the most controversial figures in modern wrestling.

During a post-attack comment, she reminded the fans “who the company was built upon.”

Eddie Edwards Clashes With Fan At TNA Final Resolution 2024

TNA Final Resolution 2024 delivered more than just in-ring action this past Friday night, as Eddie Edwards became the center of controversy after a heated altercation with a fan at ringside.

Competing alongside Brian Myers as part of The System, Edwards faced off against the iconic duo of Matt and Jeff Hardy in a high-stakes Tables Match for the TNA Tag Team Championships. However, the spotlight briefly shifted from the action to a surprising moment involving a fan in the front row.

During the match, Edwards began jawing with the fan, which quickly escalated when the spectator decided to cross the line and slap the former TNA World Champion. Although the slap seemed more playful than hostile, Edwards didn’t take it lightly. In response, Edwards delivered a stiff slap of his own, sending a clear message, before forcefully shoving the fan back into their seat.

The TNA officials were quick to de-escalate the situation, escorting the fan from the ringside area. Edwards, unfazed by the chaos, stared directly into the camera with a smirk, playfully taunting, “I’m still having fun.”

As the dust settled on the confrontation, the match reached its climactic conclusion. Jeff Hardy, known for his death-defying style, took to the heights of the audience perch and launched himself onto Edwards, who was sprawled across a table below, sealing the victory for the Hardys in dramatic fashion.

While the Tables Match delivered everything fans could hope for — high stakes, big spots, and wild energy — it’s Edwards’ clash with the fan that left the wrestling world buzzing.

PWInsider reports that the incident was not planned and wasn’t a plant in the crowd.

The report also notes that after being ejected from Center Stage, the individual was handed off to the Atlanta Police Department. It’s unknown if any charges were filed.

You can check out a video of the incident here at this link.

TNA Final Resolution 12/13/2024 (Results) – Return Of Tessa Blanchard

Pre-Show Results

  • Johnny Dango Curtis def. Leon Slater
    Johnny Dango Curtis kept Leon Slater grounded early with some old-school grinding offense, aiming to neutralize the high flyer. Slater eventually found his rhythm, hitting some impressive dives, but his attempt at a swanton 450 missed the mark. Seizing the moment, Dango rolled up Slater with his feet on the ropes for the underhanded victory.
  • Jake Something Goes Solo
    It was announced that Alexander Hammerstone was injured and unable to compete in the tag match. Jake Something brushed off concerns about finding a new partner, boldly declaring he’d fight on his own.
  • Frankie Kazarian def. Jonathan Gresham
    Jonathan Gresham’s technical prowess gave him control for much of the match, but Frankie Kazarian had tricks up his sleeve. After a slingshot cutter and a failed attempt to cheat with his feet on the ropes, Kaz found another way—thumbing Gresham in the eye before locking in a chickenwing submission. Gresham had no choice but to tap.

Final Resolution Results

  • X-Division Championship: Moose (c) def. Kushida
    Moose dominated early, slamming Kushida into steel steps and powerbombing him onto the apron, leaving him motionless. As the referee’s count neared 10, Moose arrogantly stopped the count to inflict more punishment. However, Kushida dodged Moose’s charging attack, sending the champ crashing into the steps. Kushida targeted Moose’s left arm, expertly wearing him down with precision submissions. Despite the pain, Moose powered through with one arm, eventually landing a dropkick to intercept Kushida’s handspring elbow and finishing with a devastating Spear to retain the title.
  • The Rascalz def. Sami Callihan & PCO and Jake Something
    With Hammerstone out, Jake Something went solo in this three-way tag bout. Jake showcased his resilience, powerbombing everyone in sight. But in the end, the Rascalz’s speed gave them the edge. Zachary Wentz hit a flying stomp on Jake, followed by Trey Miguel securing the pinfall.

Mystery Continues
Post-match, Sami Callihan showed respect to the Rascalz, but the eerie “23 mystery” video played again, teasing answers but delivering none. Callihan grew visibly agitated, accusing the Rascalz of being behind the cryptic messages.

  • Ace Austin def. Trent Seven
    Trent Seven disrespected Ace Austin by tearing up a Chris Bey t-shirt after a powerbomb. That lit a fire under Austin, who rallied back. Seven nearly had it won after a Burning Hammer on the apron and a piledriver, but Ace shocked everyone by kicking out. Channeling Bey’s spirit, Ace hit the Art of Finesse and followed up with The Fold to secure the win.
  • Jordynne Grace vs. Rosemary Ends in Chaos
    Jordynne Grace appeared to have the upper hand, nearly sealing the victory with a musclebuster. Just as the referee counted, someone yanked him out of the ring.

Tessa Blanchard Returns
The masked attacker revealed herself as Tessa Blanchard, making her presence felt with a hammerlock DDT on Grace. Backstage, Tessa declared her intentions: she’s back to reclaim what’s hers.

https://x.com/ThisIsTNA/status/1867754696053539171

Jordynne Grace responded about the attack from Tess Blanchard later in a backstage interview.

  • #1 Contender Match: Joe Hendry def. Josh Alexander, Mike Santana, and Steve Maclin
    In a chaotic four-way clash, Josh Alexander resorted to underhanded tactics, zip-tying Santana to the barricade and landing a low blow on Steve Maclin. Before Alexander could seal the win with the C4 Piledriver, Joe Hendry intervened, hoisting Alexander up for the Standing Ovation slam to claim the victory. Hendry now has a world title shot at Genesis on January 19.
  • Knockouts Championship: Masha Slamovich (c) def. Tasha Steelz (Falls Count Anywhere)
    With Alisha Edwards ejected from ringside, Masha Slamovich and Tasha Steelz brawled all over the arena. The final moments unfolded on the entrance ramp, where Slamovich countered a cutter, sent Steelz into the ropes, and delivered a vicious knee strike. She followed up with a piledriver on the ramp for the decisive win.
  • TNA World Tag Team Championship: The Hardys (c) def. Brian Myers & Eddie Edwards (Tables Match)
    In a brutal tables match, both members of the opposing team had to be put through tables to win. Myers went first after a double-team crucifix slam, but Matt Hardy evened the score with a Twist of Fate on Myers through a table. The action escalated into the stands, where Jeff Hardy delivered the highlight of the night—a Swanton Bomb off the upper deck to drive Eddie Edwards through a table for the win.
  • TNA World Championship: Nic Nemeth (c) def. “Top Dolla” AJ Francis
    Nic Nemeth started fast, but KC Navarro’s interference allowed AJ Francis to take control. Navarro was eventually ejected, but Francis continued his dominance. On a chokeslam attempt, Nemeth countered mid-air into a Fameasser, then sealed the deal with a superkick and The Danger Zone to retain the title.

Post-Match Showdown
After the match, Navarro returned to attack Nemeth, with Francis ready to deliver more punishment. Joe Hendry ran in for the save, clearing the ring. Tensions escalated as both Hendry and Nemeth grabbed the world title simultaneously, engaging in a heated tug-of-war and intense trash talk to close the show.