With TNA Wrestling recently securing a new media rights deal with AMC, the focus has shifted to the talent roster, many of whom have reportedly been exploring their options. According to the latest Wrestling Observer Newsletter, several top names in TNA are in active discussions with WWE while they await new contract offers from TNA.
Talent ‘Patiently Waiting’ For TV Deal
Dave Meltzer reports that the delay in TNA’s television announcement caused a backlog in contract negotiations. Many wrestlers have been holding out, expecting that the new media rights deal would lead to more lucrative offers.
“From one person close to the scene, a lot of the talent has been very patiently waiting for the announcement of the television deal because the company has been slow in offering new contracts,” Meltzer wrote. “The belief was they were expecting offers after this deal and the level of those offers now will be something monitored by many.”
Comparisons To Jordynne Grace And Joe Hendry
The report notes that the current talks between TNA talent and WWE are reminiscent of the buzz surrounding Jordynne Grace and Joe Hendry earlier this year. Both stars made high-profile appearances on NXT while still under contract with TNA, opening the door for further crossover and recruitment.
“There are active top TNA wrestlers in discussion with WWE similar to what happened with Jordynne Grace and Joe Hendry,” Meltzer stated. This suggests that the “forbidden door” between the two promotions remains a key factor in talent relations.
Who Is Waiting For Offers?
Meltzer identified a specific list of wrestlers who fall into the category of waiting for new deals from TNA. The list includes former WWE stars and homegrown TNA talent who have become staples of the brand.
“Those who fit into the category of waiting for new offers are believed to include Mike Santana, Mustafa Ali, Jake Something, AJ Francis, Steve Maclin and Zachary Wentz,” the report confirmed. As TNA prepares for its premiere on AMC in January 2026, retaining these names will likely be a priority for the promotion.
