Santino Marella has high expectations for the TNA roster heading into the new year. The Director of Authority recently identified two talents he believes are on the verge of superstardom.
Speaking on Medd in the Morning, Marella was asked who he thinks will have a breakout year in 2026. He pointed to X-Division standout Leon Slater and rising Knockouts star Xia Brookside as the names to watch.
“I guess I’ll continue to say Leon (Slater), I mean, he’s kind of already had a breakout year, but I believe he’s going to break out even further,” Marella said. “I think Xia Brookside, man, she’s poised to have an incredible year as well.”
Slater has impressed fans with his high-flying ability since joining the promotion, recently capturing the X-Division Championship. Brookside has also made waves in the Knockouts division, forming a tag team with Lei Ying Lee known as the Angel Warriors.
Both talents have been heavily featured in TNA’s recent programming. Slater recently earned a shot at the NXT Championship, winning a fatal four-way match to become the number one contender for Oba Femi’s title at NXT New Year’s Evil in January. Meanwhile, Marella himself recently stepped back into the ring, teaming with Matt Hardy, Mike Santana, and Steve Maclin in a steel cage match on the December 18 episode of TNA Impact.
If you use any portion of the quotes from this article please credit Medd in the Morning with a h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.
