TNA Wrestling has reportedly made progress on securing its roster for the immediate future, though the strategy involves a shift in how agreements are structured. Fightful Select reported on Sunday that the promotion has finalized several short-term deals with roster members. These new contracts are approximately three months long, covering the talent through the beginning of 2026. While the report did not list the specific names who put pen to paper on these extensions, it signals a new direction for the company’s talent relations department as they navigate the end of the year.
The move to shorter agreements appears to be mutual between the company and the wrestlers. According to the report, talent have preferred these types of deals to maintain flexibility for both parties. By signing for a shorter term, wrestlers can keep their options open for future employment, potentially allowing them to explore the free-agent market sooner rather than being locked into multi-year commitments. This approach mirrors trends seen elsewhere in the industry where talent value the ability to bet on themselves and renegotiate based on their current market value.
From the company’s perspective, TNA sources indicated that signing shorter deals would provide greater financial flexibility. This strategy allows TNA to manage its budget more dynamically and attracts talent that may not be interested in long-term exclusivity. By rotating talent or securing names for specific run cycles, TNA can keep the product fresh without the financial burden of guaranteed multi-year downsides. This method could enable more surprise appearances and shorter programs featuring international talent or free agents seeking a temporary home.
Several notable names have deals coming due around this time. The report noted that contracts for Jake Something, Zachary Wentz, AJ Francis, and Steve Maclin are among those expected to expire at the end of 2025. Maclin, a former TNA World Champion, has been a top heel for the brand since his arrival. Zachary Wentz has been heavily featured in the X-Division and tag team ranks, while AJ Francis has made a name for himself with his character work since joining the promotion. The status of these specific individuals regarding the new short-term offers remains unconfirmed, but securing them would be a priority for the brand.
The roster shuffle follows a significant departure. Joe Hendry, a former TNA World Champion, has officially left the promotion and signed with WWE. Hendry has already begun appearing on NXT television, marking a significant loss for TNA given his popularity. He also made a surprise appearance at Saturday Night’s Main Event before John Cena’s final match, cementing his transition to the WWE roster. As TNA looks to 2026, filling the void left by top stars like Hendry will likely be a key focus of these new flexible contract negotiations.
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