TNA Impact live results: International title tournament begins

After last week’s announcement that the Digital Media title would become the new International title, the tournament to crown a new champion begins on tonight’s TNA Impact.

In the first bout, Mance Warner faces AJ Francis and Sami Callihan in a three-way with the winner advancing to next Thursday’s Unbreakable streaming special.

Former World Champions will clash at Steve Maclin battles Eddie Edwards while the high-flying Leon Slater will face Ryan Nemeth.

Former Tag Team Champions The Rascalz will take on The System’s Brian Myers & JDC in a key divisional match.

Reigning X-Division Champion Moose will face Cody Deaner in a non-title match as former X-Division Champion Mustafa Ali takes on former X-Division and Tag Team Champion Ace Austin.

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The usual video package recapping the previous week’s show airs to get things started. The show then settles inside the Impact Zone in St. Joseph, MO., where Tom Hannifan and Matthew Rehwoldt welcome the viewing audience at home.

Ethan Page, Frankie Kazarian & Santino Marella Kick Things Off

“Well, well, well …look who’s back, baby!” He says he’s back in TNA Wrestling, the company where he truly found out who he was. It’s where he found his ego. It’s where he became “All Ego” Ethan Page.

He cut his teeth here and he’s pretty sure he still holds the record for longest reigning tag-team champion in company history. He’s not here to talk about the past. He wants to focus on the future.

He mentions TNA Rebellion 2025, where he will take on Frankie Kazarian and TNA World Champion Joe Hendry, with the title on-the-line. In Los Angeles, at TNA Rebellion 2025, it will be Ethan Page who finally becomes TNA World Champion.

Fans boo. Page responds, “Boo? BOO?!” He asks if the crowd thinks he can’t beat Joe Hendry. They yell back, “No!” He says he already knows what he needs to about Hendry.

He’s got a catchy song, he’s always wearing a tight shirt, he’s got a Slim Shady haircut. He says he will win the TNA World Championship and bring it back with him to WWE NXT.

Frankie Kazarian’s theme hits and out he comes with his Call Your Shot gauntlet trophy. Kazarian and Page exchange insults until TNA Director of Authority Santino Marella cuts them off.

The TNA shot-caller comes out and tells Kazarian and Page that Joe Hendry will be out here later tonight and he will be talking about something that will affect the both of them.

Gia Miller Interviews Steve Maclin, Eric Young Interrupts

After the opening segment wraps up, the show settles backstage where Gia Miller is standing by with Steve Maclin. He talks about his three-way match in the TNA International Championship tournament tonight.

He says he knows The System will be lurking, but he doesn’t need The Armory or anyone watching his back. Just as he says that, Eric Young and The Northern Armory interrupt him.

Young tells Maclin he knows The System will get involved and it will be bad. He says whether Maclin wants it or not, they will be watching and will have his back.

Maclin tells him he’s gonna tell them one last time, he doesn’t want their help. He warns them to stay out of his business and walks off. The show heads into a commercial break.

Ace Austin vs. Mustafa Ali (w/ The Great Hands & Tasha Steelz)

The show returns inside the Impact Zone to the familiar sounds of Mustafa Ali’s theme music. Out he comes along with The Great Hands and Tasha Steelz.

He settles inside the ring for the first match of the evening. Next, the entrance tune for his opponent, Ace Austin, plays to bring out the ABC member. He takes to the ring and the bell sounds.

Ali immediately charges across the ring and hits a wild kick that flattens Austin, thanks to an assist in the form of a distraction by The Great Hands at ringside.

After being on the defensive end for the first couple of minutes, Austin fires back up on offense. He hits a click-click-boom dropkick. Austin drives Ali face-first into the canvas for a two-count.

Once again The Great Hands provide a distraction at ringside. Ali rolls up Austin, but Austin kicks out and sends Ali out to the floor. Ali is caught by The Great Hands. Austin runs and dives and takes out all three.

Steelz and Austin go face-to-face. John Skyler tries to attack Austin from behind, but Austin moves and decks him. Jason Hotch tries next, but Austin avoids him as well. Ali lays out Austin with a steel chair.

The referee saw Ali’s chair shot and immediately calls for the bell. The Great Hands hit their double-team finisher — The Favor. Ali gives orders to Skyler and Hotch. They hold his arms on the floor while his chin is laying on the bottom turnbuckle.

Steelz hands Ali a steel chair. He takes a step back and gets ready to wind up with the chair, when he slowly starts to realize Mike Santana, without music or any crowd reaction, has emerged at ringside.

Ali tries to turn in mid-motion and sneak in a chair shot at Santana as he approached the ring apron, but Santana avoided it. Ali high-tails it out of there with The Great Hands and Steelz. Santana’s theme hits and he poses on the ropes. The show heads to another commercial break.

When the show returns, Ali, Skyler, Hotch and Steelz are scurrying through the backstage area, trying to get out of there. They make it to the parking lot and reach their car. They quickly get in and tell their driver to hit it. The driver turns to reveal he is actually Santana. “Where we going?!” He says, before beginning his attack.

Match Result: Ace Austin defeated Mustafa Ali

TNA X-Division Champion Moose vs. Cody Deaner

Back inside the Impact Zone, the catchy-tune for Moose hits the house speakers, and out comes the TNA X-Division Champion, accompanied by the other members of The System. He settles in the ring for the next match of the evening.

Moose’s music dies down and the entrance music for his opponent hits. Out comes Cody Deaner. He begins cutting a promo as he enters the ring, only to be cut off by JDC. JDC taunts him, asking when he’s won a match in TNA.

JDC offers Deaner a spot in The System. Not as a member, but as the custodian or janitor of the group. He says he can carry their bags and clean up after them. He tells Deaner he doesn’t have many options. “You need to trust in The System, okay?”

Deaner says maybe he should think about his kids. He says it’s not up to him, however, but rather the fans. He asks the fans if he should be The System’s lackey. He decides against it and claims he can beat Moose for the TNA X-Division Championship.

Moose asks Deaner what makes him think he deserves a TNA X-Division Championship shot? He says he’s a nice guy and in a giving mood. He tells Deaner if he can last two minutes in the ring with him right now, he will give him a TNA X-Division Championship match.

Deaner asks the fans if they think he can last two minutes. “Do you think I can last two minutes?!” he says in excited fashion. Out of context that just sounds horrible. The people have spoken, and the two-minute challenge is underway.

The bell sounds and a two-minute clock appears on the screen. Moose immediately batters Deaner down to the mat. He hoists him up and hits a Last Ride-style powerbomb with authority. Moose then starts to taunt him and take his time, playing with his food.

He hoists Deaner up and hits another massive powerbomb. He covers him but pulls Deaner off the canvas at the count of two. Moose goes for a spear, but Deaner rolls out to the floor. Moose chases after him. Deaner rolls in the ring. Moose does as well.

Deaner rolls right back out. Deaner continues to try and avoid Moose to eat away at the clock. The fans count down from ten and the bell sounds. Deaner survived two minutes, and thus, this match continues and is now for the TNA X-Division Championship. Seconds later, Moose spears Deaner and pins him.

Match Result: Moose defeated Cody Deaner

The System (JDC & Brian Myers) vs. The Rascalz (Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz)

After the match, The System gang up and look to deliver a post-match beatdown to Deaner. Before they can, however, The Rascalz’ duo of Zachary Wentz and Trey Miguel hit the ring with bats to make the save.

The show heads to another commercial, with The Rascalz vs. JDC and Brian Myers in tag-team action when the show returns.

As the show returns, all four men are in the ring and ready to roll. The bell sounds to get things started, and now it’s JDC and Myers’ turns to prove themselves to Eddie Edwards, like each member of The System must do tonight. Moose did in the previous bout.

We see some good fast-paced action in the opening moments, and then JDC and Myers start to settle into the offensive lead. After they enjoy a few minutes in control, Wentz and Miguel begin to fight from underneath back into competitive form.

Wentz and Miguel start to pick up the pace and get the crowd involved in the process. Just as it looked like they were rounding third on their way home, The System pull some cheap heel tactics.

We see an illegal assist during a pin that secured them the three-count. They quickly roll out to the floor and retreat as the show heads into another commercial break.

Match Result: JDC & Brian Myers defeated The Rascalz

AJ Francis (w/ KC Navarro) vs. Mance Warner (w/ Steph De Lander) & Sami Callihan in a TNA International Championship Tournament match

When the show returns, the ring entrances begin for the next match of the evening, which is the opening bout of the tournament to crown the inaugural TNA International Champion.

First Class’ AJ Francis comes out accompanied by KC Navarro. Out next is Mance Warner, who comes to the ring with his new fiancée’, Steph De Lander. Finally, Sami Callihan makes his way out.

The bell sounds to get things officially off-and-running. Almost immediately it is clear the three will be leaning on the rule of anything goes in a three-way match. Navarro gets involved, providing an assist that helps Francis settle into the early lead.

As the action continues, De Lander begins playing a big role at ringside in favor of Warner. Callihan cuts off Warner’s momentum. He grabs a flyer and uses it to give Warner a paper cut in between his fingers.

A chair dual between Callihan and Warner leaves them both worse for wears, allowing Francis to finish things off with the TFL for the pinfall victory.

With the win, Francis advances in the TNA International Championship Tournament. The tourney will wrap up at TNA Unbreakable 2025 next Thursday. After the match wraps up, the show heads into another commercial break.

Match Result: AJ Francis defeated Mance Warner & Sami Callihan

Barbed Wire Massacre Announced For TNA Unbreakable

When the show returns, Sami Callihan is in his dressing room when a fired up Santino Marella comes in asking him, “What the hell was that?”

He talks about how violent Callihan and Warner got moments ago during the TNA International Championship Tournament match. Callihan says this ain’t a joke. He wants to finish things once and for all with Warner.

Santino asks Callihan what it is going to take to make that happen. Callihan demands a Barbed Wire Massacre bout with Warner at TNA Unbreakable 2025. Santino gives it the green light. It’s official.

Leon Slater vs. Ryan Nemeth

Back inside the Impact Zone, Leon Slater and Ryan Nemeth make their respective ring walks. The bell then sounds to get the next match of the evening officially off-and-running.

Slater gets off to an impressive start, only for Nemeth to shift the offensive momentum into his favor. Slater doesn’t stay on the defensive for long, however, as he soon begins taking back over.

Slater hits his Twist of Slate homage to The Hardys, and then heads to the top-rope. With the crowd roaring, the young talented TNA prospect hits his 450 swanton bomb for the pinfall victory. The show heads into anther commercial break.

Match Result: Leon Slater defeated Ryan Nemeth

Mike Santana Begins His Revenge On Mustafa Ali

When the show returns, we see a flashback segment with highlights of the classic AJ Styles vs. Samoa Joe vs. Christopher Daniels triple-threat match from the original TNA Unbreakable event.

After that, we shoot to a cinematic experience-style segment, where Mike Santana has John Skyler of The Great Hands tied up in a bunker of some sort. Skyler cries and begs as Santana tells him Ali doesn’t care about him.

He says Ali took one from him, and now he’s gonna do the same to Ali. He’s gonna take his people out one at a time. He stands up with a shovel and winds up to bash Skyler’s head in.

As Skyler flinches and cries some more, Santana stops in mid-swing and sends one final warning to Skyler about Ali.

Eddie Edwards (w/ Alisha Edwards) vs. Steve Maclin

Inside the Impact Zone, the theme for The System hits to bring out Eddie Edwards. He makes his way to the ring accompanied by Alisha Edwards. It’s now his own turn to prove himself.

His music dies down and the familiar sounds of his opponent’s theme plays to bring out “Bulletproof” Steve Maclin. The bell sounds to get things underway.

Maclin starts off strong, but a distraction from Alisha at ringside early into the bout allows Edwards to shift the offensive momentum into his favor.

Maclin takes over again, only for outside interference to once again lead to Edwards in the offensive driver’s seat. The show heads into a mid-match commercial break as Edwards continues to add to his lead.

As soon as the show returns, Edwards lands a vicious chop that echoes throughout the Impact Zone and elicits audible gasps from the crowd. Edwards with a snap-mare to bring Maclin to the mat.

He picks him back up and hits a short-arm clothesline to put him back to the mat. Maclin finally blasts Edwards and decks him. Both guys are down and the fans rally behind Maclin.

They get up and trade shots back-and-forth in the middle of the ring. Maclin comes off the ropes with a Thesz Press and a barrage of follow-up punches on the ground. Maclin with a big slam for a close two-count.

Yet again Alisha gets involved from ringside, and this leads to Edwards to taking back over on offense. He takes too long while climbing to the top-rope, however, and Maclin cuts him off. Maclin climbs up after him but Edwards knocks him off.

Maclin climbs right back up and he hoists Edwards up for a Super-Olympic Slam. Maclin then hangs Edwards upside down in the tree of woe in the opposing corner.

He charges at him and hits a spear to knock him down. The System come out to ringside. They pass Edwards The System ring. Eric Young and The Northern Armory come out.

Young stops Judas and Williams from helping Maclin. Edwards drills Maclin with The System ring and then follows up with the Boston Knee Party for the pinfall victory. The show heads to another commercial break.

Match Result: Eddie Edwards defeated Steve Maclin

Joe Hendry Announcement

It’s main event (segment) time!

When the show returns, matches and segments are announced for next week’s episode of TNA Impact (see below). The familiar sounds of Joe Hendry’s theme song hits the house speakers as the show settles back inside the Impact Zone.

Hendry settles in the ring and talks with a serious voice about suffering a serious rotator cuff injury. He says in this business, you’ve got to take the bad with the good. He says he always claimed he would defend his TNA World Championship against anyone from any company.

He says if you can’t defend the championship, then you shouldn’t be the champion. Fans cut him off with loud “We Believe!” chants. He again mentions having to take the bad with the good. He says the bad news is the medical team has told him he shouldn’t compete.

He says the good news is he told the medical team he will compete at TNA Rebellion 2025. He says he’ll defend his TNA World Championship against two of the biggest scumbags he’s ever met in Frankie Kazarian and Ethan Page.

He vows to walk out of TNA Rebellion 2025 with the TNA World Championship still in his possession. Fans chant “We Believe!” again. Theme for Frankie Kazarian hits and out comes one of his two opponents scheduled for TNA Rebellion 2025.

Kazarian taunts Hendry over his rotator cuff injury. He tells him if he’s not 100 percent, there’s no way he can compete with “The King of TNA.” He tells Hendry he makes the mistake of caring about the stupid fans.

He says he’ll be a beast at TNA Rebellion. He’ll expose of Ethan Page and finally get his hands on Hendry, beat him and become TNA World Champion. Hendry asks if he just said he can’t wait to get his hands on an injured Joe Hendry?

Hendry tells Kazarian one week before Rebellion, at Unbreakable, there is going to be a tag match. It’ll be Kazarian and Tessa Blanchard taking on TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich and TNA World Champion Joe Hendry. Hendry’s theme hits again to wrap up this week’s show.

Thanks for joining us and don’t forget to follow F4WOnline.com’s Matt Boone on Twitter/X.

Next Week On TNA Impact (4/17/2025):

  • Brian Myers vs. Leon Slater
  • Jazmyn Nyx vs. Xia Brookside
  • Jakara Jackson vs. Dani Luna
  • What’s next for Cody Deaner?
  • Elijah has a message ahead of TNA Rebellion

Mike Santana vs. Mustafa Ali rematch set for next week’s TNA Impact

A rematch is set for next Thursday’s Impact.

Friday’s Sacrifice event saw Mike Santana gain the upper hand in his match against Mustafa Ali when members of Ali’s cabinet (Jason Hotch, John Skyler, and Tasha Steelz) came in to interfere. The finish had Steelz hop on the apron, distracting Santana long enough for Ali to roll him up, using the ropes to score the tainted win. After the match, a smug Ali grabbed a beer from a fan in the crowd and put it inside the ring near Santana, a recovering alcoholic.

Later backstage, Santana confronted TNA Director of Authority Santino Marella about the loss. Marella then announced that Santana would get his rematch on Impact this Thursday, and all members of Ali’s cabinet were banned from ringside.

Chavo Guerrero Jr. was also announced as appearing on the show. TNA is set to hold their next television tapings on March 15 in Guerrero’s hometown of El Paso, Texas.

Here’s everything announced for the next episode of TNA Impact:

  • Mike Santana vs. Mustafa Ali (Ali’s cabinet barred from ringside)
  • Chavo Guerrero Jr. to appear

Mustafa Ali vs. Mike Santana added to TNA Sacrifice

Rivals Mustafa Ali and Mike Santana are set to do battle later this month.

TNA Wrestling has added Ali vs. Santana to the card for Sacrifice 2025, which is taking place from El Paso, Texas on Friday, March 14. The show is a live TNA+ special.

Things have gotten personal with the heel Ali playing mind games with Santana on Impact in recent weeks. Santana — who is now two years sober — was attending an Alcoholics Anonymous meeting in one segment when Ali interrupted it to prod him. Santana kept his cool, but Ali interrupted him again the following week with a video accusing Santana of falling off the wagon.

Ali plays a heel politician in TNA and is aligned with John Skyler, Jason Hotch & Tasha Steelz. Santana vs. Skyler is airing on TNA Impact this Thursday.

Santana is on a journey hoping to become TNA World Champion — a title that is held by Joe Hendry at the moment.

Here is the updated Sacrifice card:

  • TNA Knockouts World Champion Masha Slamovich defends against Cora Jade
  • Joe Hendry, Matt Hardy, Elijah, TBA & TBA vs. Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers, JDC, Epico Colon & Primo Colon
  • Ladder match: TNA X-Division Champion Moose defends against Jeff Hardy
  • Mustafa Ali vs. Mike Santana
  • Tessa Blanchard vs. Lei Ying Lee
  • Wes Lee, Tyriek Igwe & Tyson Dupont vs. Zachary Wentz, Trey Miguel & Ace Austin
  • Street fight: Sami Callihan vs. Mance Warner
  • Nic Nemeth returns

Mustafa Ali set for AAA debut this Saturday in Mexico City

Mustafa Ali is set to make his AAA debut as part of the promotion’s upcoming Alianzas tour.

On Tuesday, AAA announced that Ali will wrestle at this Saturday’s TV taping in Mexico City, marking his first appearance for the company.

AAA initially teased Ali’s arrival by announcing a mystery wrestler would be joining the tour and posting an image of a silhouetted figure. However, fans quickly identified the silhouette as Ali.

AAA later confirmed the news, writing, “The mystery has been REVEALED! Mustafa Ali will be present on the new tour this coming Saturday from CDMX.”

Yesterday, LuchaBlog speculated on Ali’s likely role in AAA, suggesting he will be in a spot similar to one previously occupied by Matt Riddle.

“He’s likely wrestling Laredo Kid on 02/15 for the AAA Cruiserweight Championship,” LuchaBlog wrote. “If that match happens, Ali is likely winning and will inhabit the same role as Matt Riddle: occasional big show appearances and being a ‘big name’ because AAA doesn’t believe their Mexican wrestlers are big enough names to draw fans (and aren’t motivated to address that problem.)”

Ali’s schedule remains busy beyond his AAA debut. TNA announced Tuesday that he will appear on this week’s Impact, hosting a Townhall Meeting on Thursday’s episode. He previously faced Laredo Kid on the show, defeating him two weeks ago.

AAA is expected to make further announcements about the Alianzas tour and Triplemania XXXIII at a press conference later today.

TNA Impact live results: NXT’s Cora Jade & Wes Lee in action

The WWE NXT invasion of TNA Wrestling will continue on tonight’s Impact.

After confronting Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich at Genesis, Jade will make her TNA in-ring debut tonight against Hyan.

She will be joined by fellow NXT roster mate Wes Lee who will take on former X-Division Champion Ace Austin. Lee returned briefly last July as part of the initial NXT/TNA crossover.

For the first time since losing the TNA World title, Nic Nemeth will give his thoughts that will kick off the show.

After making his surprise return at Genesis, former X-Division Champion Mustafa Ali will take on former Digital Media Champion Laredo Kid.

Following his unsuccessful attempt to quit the company, Josh Alexander will team with Eric Young against Alexander’s former teammates The Northern Armory (Judas Icarus & Travis Williams).

Leon Slater vs. Brian Myers and a Sami Callihan promo directed toward Mance Warner and Steph De Lander rounds out the show.

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The Nemeth’s & First Class Kick Off This Week’s Show

The show opens up inside the Impact Zone in San Antonio, TX. with Nic Nemeth’s entrance tune. McKenzie Mitchell is shown in the ring and she introduces “The Wanted Man” himself, who comes to the ring to kick things off.

“Genesis was a hell of a night for TNA. Unfortunately, it was not a great night for myself,” Nemeth begins. He makes no excuses. Joe Hendry was the better man, and now Joe Hendry is your TNA World Champion. He insists that isn’t a sob-story, and he makes it clear when one gets knocked down, they get up and do something about it.

He says so in 2025, that’s what he plans to do. As he tries continuing, he is cut off. “My brother is not happy with what happened at TNA Genesis,” says Ryan Nemeth, who comes to the ring and insists Nic got robbed, and that Hendry got lucky.

Ryan goes on to call Hendry a poser, a loser and a “two-pump chump.” He tells Nic he’s better, even if he’s too modest to say it. He vows 2025 will be Nic’s year and calls Hendry a fraud. Nic stops him. He thanks him for the kind words but again insists Hendry earned the win and the title.

“It’s not all doom and gloom, think about it,” Nic continues. He says he can go for the world title and he and Ryan can go for the tag-titles. He is interrupted by KC Navarro, who annoyingly repeats the phrase, “Pardon me?!” in obnoxious fashion.

AJ Francis begins, “Allow me to reintroduce myself, my name is …” well he didn’t continue with “HOV,” we can say that much. He says he’s not here to talk to Ryan, he’s here to talk to the Nemeth brother who actually matters. He mocks Nic’s plans to go for the world title.

Francis goes on to talk about his own end of 2024 and how since then, “Papa’s got a brand new bag,” another song rip-off, to boast about his new TNA deal. He says it’s a new era in TNA and it’s the “T-N-AJ-Francis Era.”

Ryan yells back, “Hey my brother does not deserve to be interrupted, my brother demands respect!” Nic goes on to tell First Class he doesn’t know who they think they are. Ryan cuts him off and says he and his big brother are going to fight them tonight.

TNA Director of Authority Santino Marella’s theme hits and he comes out to announce Ryan & Nic Nemeth vs. First Class in tonight’s main event. His theme hits again and just as fast as he appeared, he was gone.

Tessa Blanchard Punks Out Arianna Grace & Gia Miller

Backstage, Gia Miller is standing by with “The Liaison” Arianna Grace, when up walks Tessa Blanchard. Grace introduces herself to her in bubbly fashion. Blanchard tells her she doesn’t tell her what to do. Grace insists they’re on the same team.

Blanchard blasts her for playing dress up and having everything handed to her. Grace runs off crying. “That’s right, go,” Tessa taunts. She then tells Gia she’s not needed, punks her, takes her microphone and says, “Tessa Blanchard answers to nobody.”

On that note, Tom Hannifan and Matt Rehwoldt run down the advertised lineup for tonight as the match graphics flash on the screen. We then head to the first commercial break of the show.

Cora Jade defeated Hyan

When the show returns, the digital exclusive shared before the show, which features Cora Jade “big-timing” and getting into a pull-apart with Xia Brookside is shown. Jade was initially looking for TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich.

Inside the arena, Cora Jade’s theme hits and the WWE NXT Superstar makes her way to the ring for the first match of the evening. In the ring already is her opponent, Hyan. The bell sounds to get things started, and the two lock-up.

Jade takes the early control with ease. She hits a dropkick on Hyan and hops on the ropes to lay down and boast. She yanks Hyan down by her hair and then plays to the crowd again. She chokes Hyan over the middle rope and then hits a running elbow to her back.

She tries the same thing a second time, but Hyan moves. Hyan hits wasteland and goes for the cover, but Jade kicks out and takes over on Hyan in the corner, before hitting her Jaded finisher for the easy win. Jade beats Hyan down some more afterwards, prompting Xia Brookside to run out for the save.

Jade pretends to run off, and as Brookside turns to check on Hyan, Jade re-enters the ring behind her and hits Brookside with Jaded. Jade is standing tall admiring her dastardly deeds when the theme for Slamovich hits. The TNA Knockouts Champion runs to the ring, and this time Jade runs off for real, stopping briefly to wear Masha’s cowboy hat and taunt her from the ramp.

Gia Miller Interviews Wes Lee, Tyriek & Tyson

Backstage, Gia Miller is standing by with Wes Lee, Tyriek and Tyson. Lee guesses the question is “Why?” in reference to his actions towards his former partners, The Rascalz. He talks about his goal of being NXT Champion and mentions how Tyriek and Tyson are after tag-team gold.

Lee says it all starts tonight when he takes out “The Resident Magician that ya’ll have, Ace Austin.” The three walk off on that note and then the show heads into another commercial time out.

Santino Marella Served Papers & Makes An Announcement

When the show returns, Ash & Heather by Elegance are with George Iceman, who serves Santino Marella with papers from their lawyers. He complains about the Knockouts tag-team title match from Genesis and demands justice.

Santino tells them to relax and announces a battle royal for next week, where the winner earns a Knockouts title bout. He says they are both in it, as are these two who walk up, Spitfire.

Dani Luna and Jody Threat talk trash and get under the skin of the Elegant duo while also being announced for next week’s high stakes battle royal.

Brian Myers (w/ Moose, Eddie Edwards, JDC & Alisha Edwards) defeated Leon Slater

Inside the Impact Zone, The System’s theme hits and out comes the entire group for Brian Myers’ advertised match. Moose, Eddie Edwards, JDC and Alisha Edwards enter the ring with him and they all show off the rings they got each other.

The theme for Leon Slater hits, and out comes the promising young prospect to the ring. After a competitive early back-and-forth, Slater pulls ahead. With Myers on the floor, Slater hits the ropes to build up momentum for a dive, only for all of The System to stand in front of Myers and stop him.

Due to the distraction at ringside as Slater tried pursuing The System on the floor, Myers takes over on offense and brings the action back into the ring. Myers enjoys a few minutes in the offensive driver’s seat until Slater hits a big splash off the ropes.

After shifting the momentum into his favor, Slater goes on his trademark, fast-paced, explosive high-flying offensive showcase for his big comeback. He heads to the top but sees Myers standing, so he leaps over his head and lands on his feet, before blasting Myers and getting a close two-count.

Myers surprises an unsuspecting Slater with an enzugiri, before following up with an even bigger move for a close two-count of his own. The crowd bit on that as the finish. Myers backs into a corner and stalks Slater. He charges at Slater, who drops and rolls up Myers for a crafty two-count.

Slater hits a single leg dropkick that sends Myers to the floor. Slater plays to the crowd before building up a full head of steam. Once again his big dive tease is shut down. This time, however, Slater sprints towards the corner and hits a turning spiraling splash over the ring post to Myers on the floor.

On the floor, Slater dodges an attempted attack by Moose and Eddie Edwards, before blasting JDC on the apron with a big kick. Alisha Edwards slides one of The System’s bulky rings on Myers’ hand. Myers blasts Slater with it behind the referee’s back. He hits his finisher and gets the win.

Sami Callihan Attacks Mance Warner Backstage

Backstage, Mr. 23 himself, no, not Michael Jordan, but Mance Warner, is shown walking-and-talking with Steph De Lander, who still has the TNA Digital Media Championship.

Out of nowhere, Sami Callihan attacks Warner from behind. Hannifan says we’ll hear from Calliahan next. On that note, the show heads into another commercial break.

The System Taunts Leon Slater Backstage, The Hardys Defend Him

When the show returns, Leon Slater is being mocked by Frankie Kazarian. The System come in and do the same, telling Slater he can hold their rings or be their errand boy. The Hardys finally come up and defend Slater.

The System taunt them, calling Slater the English Hardy Boy. Matt Hardy insists Slater has star written all over him. He says next week, The G.O.A.T.’s will stand next to that man. The System say they’ll see them there.

Sami Callihan & Mance Warner Brawl Continues

Although we were scheduled to “hear” from Sami Callihan, instead we “see” him, as he emerges from the production arena next to the entrance area, still brawling with Mance Warner. Callihan beats Warner down at ringside and throws him in the ring. He grabs a baseball bat and heads into the ring with it.

Rehwoldt talks on commentary about Callihan’s questionable history with bats in TNA. Callihan blasts Warner with a steel chair and then places it over his head. He hoists his baseball bat up, but sees Steph De Lander coming down to the apron.

Callihan reaches over to deal with De Lander, who throws Warner the belt. Warner blasts Callihan with it. De Lander holds Callihan’s lifeless head up and Warner charges at him and blasts him with a knee strike. He taunts Callihan and then makes out with De Lander as the crowd boos.

Steve Maclin Warns Eric Young About Josh Alexander

When the show returns, Eric Young and Steve Maclin are talking backstage. Maclin warns Young about aligning himself with Josh Alexander. He says he’s not going to say, “I told you so.” He walks off. Young says, “I’ll be fine.”

Mustafa Ali defeated Laredo Kid

Inside the Impact Zone, the theme for Laredo Kid hits and out comes the popular masked wrestling star for the next match of the evening. He settles in the ring and then the theme hits to bring out Mustafa Ali as his opponent in what will be Ali’s first TNA match in six months.

The bell sounds and this one gets underway with Ali slowly circling Kid with an ear-to-ear smile on his face. The lock up and Ali grabs a headlock. He hits the ropes and shoulder blocks Kid down. He hits the ropes again and hits a hurricanrana, stopping to admire his work.

Ali traps Kid in a submission on the mat. Kid escapes, but Ali hits him with a hard open-hand slap. He hits the ropes but runs into a big move from Kid that nearly takes his head off. Kid goes for the cover, but only gets two. Ali goes for a backslide with his feet on the ropes, but the referee catches him.

While arguing with the referee, Ali is rolled up from behind by Kid, who gets a close two-count. Ali blasts Kid with a loud open-hand chop. Kid answers back with one of his own. With Ali on the floor, Kid hits the ropes to build up a full head of steam before diving head first into a standing Ali.

On the floor, Ali grabs and tears at Kid’s mask while also hitting him with a thumb to the eye. Kid answers back with a Bas Rutten style palm strike. Ali fights back and hits a cradle DDT off the apron onto the floor. In the ring, Ali immediately heads to the top-rope and hits a 450 splash for the win. The show heads to another commercial break after the match.

Mike Santana Confronts Mustafa Ali Backstage

When the show returns, Mustafa Ali is all smiles backstage with his personal security. He talks about the successful start to his campaign and how it is going to continue, when up walks Mike Santana, who asks if they have a problem. Ali’s security moves in, so Ali tells them it’s okay.

Santana says they can handle this like men after the disrespect Ali showed him at TNA Genesis. Ali says he just had a grueling match. He says he knows a supporter of his campaign who might be interested and walks off.

The Northern Armory (Travis Williams & Judas Icarus) and Eric Young & Josh Alexander fight to a No Contest

Inside the Impact Zone, The Northern Armoy duo of Travis Williams and Judas Icarus make their way out to the ring for the next match of the evening. They settle inside and their music dies down.

The catchy-ass entrance for Eric Young goes down next, with the commentators catching the viewing audience at home up on the risk Young is taking in trusting Josh Alexander tonight.

Finally, Josh Alexander’s tune hits and out comes “The Walking Weapon” in his first in-ring performance since quitting TNA after losing in an “I Quit” match to Mike Santana at TNA Genesis. Alexander and Young talk before the bell.

Young and Icarus kick things off for their respective teams. Young slams the hell out of Icarus, who tags in Williams. Young tags in Alexander, who takes the early offensive lead over his former ally. Icarus comes in, but Alexander handles both Northern Armory members by himself.

Alexander backs Icarus into the corner and chops the hell out of him. He does the same and whips him into the opposing corner, but Williams runs the apron and leaps in front of the turnbuckles to prevent his partner. Icarus follows up and blasts Alexander and then tags Williams in.

Both members of The Northern Armory hit back-to-back diving splashes onto Alexander on the floor. Back in the ring, Williams goes for the cover on Alexander, but only gets two. Alexander fights back and makes the much-needed tag, only for Young to hit the ring, turn around and knock the hell out of him.

Young does the slow, horror movie-style evil turn and flashes the equally evil smirk to the crowd after a long glare. Meanwhile, Icarus and Williams are beating the crap out of a lifeless Alexander, as Young directs traffic. Young finishes Alexander off with a jumping piledriver. The show heads to another commercial break.

Wes Lee defeated Ace Austin

When the show returns, Wes Lee’s theme hits and out comes the WWE NXT Superstar for the second NXT vs. TNA crossover match of the evening. The ABC entrance music hits next and out comes Ace Austin, as the commentators do a live read for TNA’s new deal with BLCKSMTH.

Austin snatches up a side head-lock off the initial lock-up. Lee cartwheels his way out of it and isolates the arm of Austin, cranking on the limb until Austin reverses and brings Lee down to the mat, controlling his arm.

The slow-paced action speeds up from here, with each guy running the ropes, hitting the match and flipping to avoid move-attempts from the other, all while ultimately doing nothing but landing one up-kick each.

At this point, fans chant “NXT! NXT” but they are eventually overtaken by a “TNA! TNA!” chant. Interestingly enough, the chants continue to out-shine the slow action in the ring, with a loud single “Boring!” chant being heard as Lee throws nothing-happening kicks at Austin.

Austin starts to fight back, and things begin to pick up once again. Austin hits a big leaping forearm to Lee from the apron. He looks for a springboard kick, but Lee avoids it. Austin hits a side-Russian leg-sweep, and quickly pops back to his feet for a fancy leg-drop.

The crowd comes to life in the background as Austin works over Lee in the corner. Austin comes off the ropes with a big kick to the back of the neck of Lee. He follows up with a cover, but only gets two. Austin muscles Lee up with a gut-wrench seated powerbomb for another two-count.

Austin calls for his finisher, but as he waits for Lee to get up, Tyson and Tyriek run out. Austin sees them coming and meets them at the end of the ramp from the apron. He hits a couple of kicks and then builds up a head of steam for a turning dive, where he almost landed on his head.

Back in the ring, Austin looks to springboard off the ropes from the apron, when Tyson and Tyriek get involved again from the floor. The distraction allows Lee to blast an unsuspecting Austin with his finisher for the win.

The NXT trio attack Austin afterwards. The Rascalz run out to make the save, and then the show heads into another commercial break, with the main event waiting on the other side.

Joe Hendry Concert Next Week

When the show returns, a commercial airs for TNA at Full Sail University. We then shoot to TNA World Champion Joe Hendry in a blue room. “Say his name, and he appears,” Hendry begins, as always.

He talks about how he’s unsure who will emerge as his first title challenger. In the meanwhile, next week, on TNA iMPACT, you’re going to see Joe Hendry in concert. He tells us we’ll be treated to a form of entertainment like no other.

The Nemeth Brothers (Nic Nemeth & Ryan Nemeth) defeated First Class (AJ Francis & KC Navarro)

It’s main event time!

After Hannifan and Rehwoldt run down the advertised lineup for next week’s TNA iMPACT on February 6 (see lineup below), the show returns inside the Impact Zone where First Class duo KC Navarro and AJ Francis make their way out for the main event of the evening.

The obligatory unzip and moan precedes the theme for the former top dog in TNA, as Nic Nemeth makes his way out accompanied by the man proud to be his little brother, Ryan Nemeth. The Nemeth Brothers head in the ring, with Ryan wearing a jacket to match his big brother.

After the bell sounds, Francis and Ryan Nemeth kick things off for their respective teams. Francis kicks Ryan down to one knee and demands he tag in “big bro.” Ryan obliges, and “The Wanted Man” hits the ring, shifting the offensive momentum in his team’s favor.

Nic lands a big leaping forearm that gets Francis second-guessing himself enough to voluntarily head over and tag out. Navarro comes in, but doesn’t fare much better in the initial exchanges. Navarro mocks Nemeth’s hip-swivel taunt, but it backfires as Nic blasts him upon turning around.

Nic and Ryan team up for some double-team spots, which culminates with Francis and Navarro both on the floor upset and re-grouping. On that note, the show heads into a mid-match commercial break as the main event of the evening continues.

When the show returns, the First Class duo of Francis and Navarro are in a comfortable offensive lead, utilizing frequent tags to keep a fresh man on the beaten down Ryan at all times, all-the-while taunting Nic on the apron.

Eventually, Ryan makes the much-needed hot tag to Nic, who comes in the ring with a ton of energy off the hot tag, immediately shifting the offensive momentum back in his team’s favor. He hits the Jerry Lawler Heart Attack special rapid-fire elbow spot on Navarro, which brings Francis in.

Ryan also hits the ring and takes care of Francis, while Navarro surprises Nic with a roll-up in the ring for a close two-count. Navarro blasts Nic with a big super kick for another close pin attempt seconds later. Nic fights back and hits a FameAsser on Navarro.

Ryan tags himself in, just as Nic hits Danger Zone. Ryan steals the pin and over-celebrates as Nic watches in disbelief, before ultimately hesitantly celebrating with his little brother. Francis carries Navarro like a baby to the back as Hannifan and Rehwoldt wrap things up.

Next Week:
* TNA Knockouts No. 1 Contender Battle Royal
* Leon Slater & The Hardys vs. Moose, JDC & Eddie Edwards
* Mike Santana vs. Matt Cardona
* Joe Hendry In Concert

Thanks for joining us and don’t forget to follow F4WOnline.com’s Matt Boone on Twitter/X.





Daily Update: Triple H, Charlotte Flair, Mustafa Ali

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest Free YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

Among the topics covered:

  • What are the issues with AEW and what can be done to fix some of them easily
  • A look at Wednesday’s show and the different issues regarding the big picture
  • Why WWE doesn’t get hurt when it does the same things listed as mistakes when AEW does them
  • Where AEW actually stands in television
  • Preview of Saturday Night’s Main Event, Royal Rumble and business notes
  • UFC 311 coverage of the show changed at the last minute
  • A look at TNA’s Genesis PPV, its relationship with WWE and its first live TV shoot
  • Game Changer Wrestling returns to the Hammerstein
  • What happened with PCO and why
  • 2024 Awards ballot
  • The most detailed look at the ratings over the past week including Raw on Netflix
  • New CMLL marketing gimmick
  • Stardom comes up with new booking concept and debuts it this past week
  • Dragon Gate comes to the U.S.
  • Japanese promotions try to present united front
  • Notes on first live TNA TV show in eight years
  • Britt Baker update
  • Ricky Starks update
  • Grand Slam Australia update
  • Notes on new AEW dates
  • Major issue long-term for AEW younger talents
  • Advanced ticket sales for upcoming WWE & AEW shows
  • International TV ratings and streaming numbers
  • More on Dana White and boxing
  • Chris Weidman retires
  • Craig Piligian announced for UFC Hall of Fame
  • One of the most popular fighters from 15 year ago cut by UFC
  • Lots more on WrestleMania
  • Corey Graves update

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter Back Issue

Thursday Update

WWE

Other Wrestling

  • With 90 days having passed since she was released from her WWE contract, Nixon Newell (the former Tegan Nox) posted that she is now officially a free agent. She is taking bookings at [email protected]. Indi Hartwell is also now entering free agency after being released on the same day as Newell. Hartwell’s first post-WWE appearance will be at WrestleCon’s convention in Indianapolis this Saturday.
  • Mustafa Ali, who has signed with TNA Wrestling, told The Takedown he fully believes that he could be the face of a company:
    • I fully believe that Mustafa Ali could be the face of a company, could be the World Champion of a company. You could sit me down with any sponsor, with any publication, with any TV show. And I dress like a star. I’m in the best shape of my life. I’m mentally, physically healthy. You’re not going to hear anything bad about me in the news. I’m not getting arrested. I’m not failing a drug test. I’m the epitome of a professional.
  • Penelope Ford was the guest on AEW Unrestricted this week.
  • Ricky Starks is facing Aaron Solo for Turnbuckle Championship Wrestling in Buford, Georgia on Saturday, February 15.
  • ESPN published a feature story on The Wrestling Club, which is led by English teacher Victor Taylor Perry at KIPP AMP Middle School in Brooklyn.
  • Ring The Belle has an interview with Gisele Shaw.

Mustafa Ali returns to TNA, announces he has signed

Mustafa Ali is back in TNA Wrestling and says he has signed with the company.

Ali returned to TNA on Thursday’s live Impact, interrupting a Mike Santana promo to reveal that he has signed a new contract.

In 2024, Ali wrestled 20 matches for TNA, including winning the X-Division Championship from Chris Sabin in his debut at No Surrender last February. Ali eventually dropped the X title to Mike Bailey at Slammiversary last July, then finished up on the next night’s TV tapings. His last TNA bout aired on the August 1, 2024 Impact in an unsuccessful World title challenge against Nic Nemeth.

In his return segment on Thursday’s Impact, Ali continued to use the politician persona that he has employed since departing WWE in 2023.

Thursday’s Impact also included a new Digital Media Champion in Steph De Lander, who debuted her new boyfriend Mance Warner in the big reveal of who was behind the 23 vignettes airing on recent Impact episodes.

Our report from the show is available here.

Daily Update: Natalya, Drew McIntyre, Mustafa Ali

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest Free YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

The  new issue of the Observer is on the site today (after a snafu):

  • Full coverage of the lessons of Saturday Night’s Main Event, from ratings to execution
  • The Athletic story on Lee Fitting, plus our thoughts on the subject
  • B.J. Whitmer alleged victim Jaime Hawn comments on current and former AEW legal heads
  • Full coverage of New Japan’s show in Long Beach with the Mercedes Mone vs. Hazuki main event
  • Update on Worlds End and the Battle of Orlando
  • CMLL’s international based show on Friday and what went right and wrong
  • Dragon Gate’s lastest major show of the year
  • The most detailed look at the ratings of all the pro wrestling TV shows and UFC shows including segment ratings, standings for the week and night, demos, comparisons with last year and a lot more
  • Annnouncer leaves company after more than 30 years and why
  • Stardoms’ end of year show
  • Comedy wrestler retires
  • CyberFight (DDT, NOAH and TJPW) financials looked at
  • How sports ratings are doing
  • Notes on a movie on one of the most legendary woman wrestlers of all-time that will be out  in March
  • Chris Jericho and Matt Cardona angle in GCW and how it came about
  • Tessa Blanchard to TNA notes and the bigger picture
  • WWE, AEW and TNA PPV numbers updates
  • Notes on changes in WBD structure
  • More on AEW move to MAX
  • Ticket advanceds for WWE & AEW shows
  • UFC business updates
  • More on WWE to Netflix and international TV notes
  • Dwayne Johnson box office notes

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter Back Issue

Tuesday Update

Natalya

WWE

  • The full match between Drew McIntyre and Sami Zayn from Monday’s Raw has been uploaded in full to WWE’s YouTube channel.
  • WWE’s YouTube channel also has a look at the Bloodline story in 2024.
  • Following her loss last night in the Women’s Intercontinental title tournament, Natalya wrote on social media: “There’s so much more I want to say, but I don’t know how to. I wake up everyday  worried that I wont be able to realize my full potential. It haunts me. More than I can say. But I’ll never stop fighting. I’ll never stop showing up for my dreams. I love and appreciate everyone who’s fought hard with me. You guys are truly the best.”
  • A new teaser for Penta El Zero Miedo aired on Raw last night.
  • Drew McIntyre has a message for The Bloodline and fans ahead of Christmas.
  • Aaron Rourke vs. Timothy Thatcher in a WWE ID Showcase match has been added to Beyond Wrestling’s December 31 event in Worcester.
  • This week’s WWE Vault content has a focus on ECW. In the last couple of days, Gunther introduced the ECW One Night Stand 2005 match between Mike Awesome and Masato Tanaka, The Dudley Boyz relive their greatest moments, and the Rob Van Dam vs. Jerry Lynn match from Hardcore Heaven 1999 has been added.

AEW/Other Wrestling

TNA Impact live results: Thanksgiving special

Never before seen matches are the focus of tonight’s Thanksgiving night edition of TNA Impact which will see a slew of current and former champions in action.

Reigning TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth will take on former champion Sami Callihan while reigning X-Division Champion Moose battles Digital Media and International Champion PCO in a casket match.

Former Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace takes on current Knockouts Tag Team Champion Dani Luna.

In a three-way, former X-Division Champion Mustafa Ali takes on Leon Slater and Trent Seven while former X-Division Champion “Speedball” Mike Bailey battles Jake Something.

In tag team action, Joe Hendry & Rhino will battle First Class’ AJ Francis & KC Navarro.

Friday will see TNA return with their Turning Point streaming special.

**********

Tom Hannifan and Matt Rehwoldt intro’d the show and plugged Friday’s Turning Point special. The two joined the show between matches, adding some context for the streaming special.

Sami Callihan, PCO & Joe Hendry defeated The System (Moose, Eddie Edwards & JDC)

This match was taped in Nashville in October.

Callihan hit his Cactus Driver ’97 on Edwards in stereo with PCO hitting a chokeslam on JDC. Hendry then got into the ring and hit his Standing Ovation on Edwards to get the pin and win.

Jordynne Grace defeated Dani Luna

This was taped in June in Philadelphia while Grace was Knockouts Champion. However, she didn’t come out with the belt here so there was some pre-planning going on. As expected, this was a hard hitting and entertaining match that Grace won after hitting a Grace Driver.

Thanksgiving skit

Callihan, PCO, Xia Brookside, Jason Hotch and Jon Skyler were sitting around a table in the “Death Machine Poker Tournament” and eating some Thanksgiving-esque dinner. The tl;dr of this: PCO won the pot which included pushing some of his chips and food into the middle of the table. The win pleased everyone but Hotch and Skyler which led to some arguing and Santino Marella appearing out of nowhere to book a match for next Thursday.

Oh, and someone got a pie to the face:

Mustafa Ali defeated Leon Slater and Trent Seven in a three-way

This was also from June in Philadelphia and was very quick, lasting just six minutes or so. Ali picked up the win after stealing the pin on Seven after Slater hit a swanton on him.

Jake Something (w/ Hammerstone) defeated “Speedball” Mike Bailey

This was from October in Nashville. These two have shared the ring frequently over the last two years in both TNA, Deadlock Pro, and other promotions.

Hammerstone’s presence led to the end as Bailey was going up to the top to finish Something, but Hammerstone shoved him from behind. Bailey recovered but as he went for his spinning kick, he ran into a running elbow/forearm from Something that gave the big man the victory.

Joe Hendry & Rhino defeated First Class (AJ Francis & KC Navarro)

This took place in Fayetteville, North Carolina, just a few weeks ago. The end came when Rhino took out Francis with a gore and Hendry caught Navarro with a Standing Ovation for the pin.

PCO defeated Moose (w/ The System) in a casket match

This took place this past July in Montreal following the Slammiversary pay-per-view. The casket was used during PCO’s entrance and so they decided to get the most out of it and use it again here.

This had a wild start as Eddie Edwards and Brian Myers got involved nearly immediately which led to Joe Hendry running out to even the odd. Alisha Edwards then hit a low blow on Hendry which led to PCO grabbing her. He was able to move out of the way as Moose speared her by mistake.

About a minute later, PCO hit a swanton and then simply rolled Moose into the casket for a surprisingly quick win.

TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth defeated Sami Callihan in a non-title match

This took place this past September in San Antonio, Texas, and featured Hannifan and Gia Miller on commentary. It was also a first-time ever match.

Both guys had near falls late, but Nemeth eventually picked up the win after countering a Callihan charge with a superkick and the Danger Zone for the pin and win.

Here’s the full lineup for Friday’s Turning Point:

  • TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth defends against Eddie Edwards
  • Two-out-of-three falls match: TNA Knockouts Champion Masha Slamovich defends against Jordynne Grace
  • TNA X-Division Champion Moose defends against Laredo Kid
  • No DQ match: Josh Alexander vs. Steve Maclin
  • Turkey Bowl match: Joe Hendry vs. Eric Young vs. Hammerstone vs. PCO vs. Brian Myers vs. John Skyler
  • Mike Santana vs. Frankie Kazarian
  • The Hardys (Matt & Jeff Hardy) & Ace Austin vs. The Rascalz (Trey Miguel & Zachary Wentz) & KUSHIDA
  • Pre-show: Rosemary vs. Xia Brookside vs. Savannah Evans

Mustafa Ali to open Chicago Wrestling Center in January 2025

Mustafa Ali is opening a wrestling school.

Ali announced today that the Chicago Wrestling Center will hold classes inside the ThinkFitClub in Niles, Illinois, beginning in January 2025. 

From the Chicago Wrestling Center website:

“Train to become a professional wrestler in an extensive four-month course. Train directly under Mustafa Ali, a 20+ year veteran of the industry who has competed in WWE, TNA, and New Japan Pro. Students will have access to top-of-the-line gym and cardio equipment before and after training sessions. Students will have access to cinematic cameras for promo class. Students will receive an exclusive CWC Tracksuit.”

The website includes statements from several wrestlers, including Seth Rollins, Rey Mysterio, Malakai Black.

Seth Rollins: “Ali has a combination of passion, dedication, experience and intellect that is unmatched. i’ve known him for 20 years. there’s no one i could recommend higher for professional wrestling training.”

Rey Mysterio: “I’ve had the opportunity to share the ring with Ali and can confidently say he’s very well rounded and would be a great trainer.”

Malakai Black: “Mustafa has overcome pretty much everything in this industry, this school is another notch on his belt of continued success working for every major company in the world and succeeding in all. I don’t often say this but in an industry where training is so watered down this is the school for you, this is where it will be done right. Fundamental Pro Wrestling with everything chance to succeed if the mindset and work ethic is there.”

Gail Kim: “Would highly recommend checking out Mustafa’s CWC. His commitment to his craft and his ability to show his experience with others really resonated with me with our time together working. I have no doubt of the level of excellence he would pass on to his students both in the ring and outside the ring.”

Mike Bailey: “There are few pro wrestlers in the world who only have great matches, but there are even fewer who truly pro wrestling. Mustafa Ali is one of those people. If you have the opportunity to learn one of the greatest minds in wrestling, jump on it.”

TJ Wilson: “Mustafa Ali is one of the most talented and creative individuals I’ve encountered in the last few years. Being trained by Ali would put anyone in a great position to pursue a career in this fantastic industry, as he has his finger on the pulse of the business.”

Ali also recently announced signing with The Gray Talent Group for work in film and television.

Mustafa Ali wants to face Hiromu Takahashi in 2025 NJPW Best of the Super Juniors

Mustafa Ali is shooting his shot.

Ali came up short in his match against Hiromu Takahashi at Friday’s NJPW Capital Collision, losing after Takahashi countered Ali’s 450 splash and hit the time bomb for the win. After the match, Ali could be heard shouting at the announcers, who later said that Ali wanted a match against Takahashi at next year’s Best of the Super Juniors tournament, noting that he and Takahashi were currently tied at one win each.

The two first faced off at Windy City Riot earlier this year in Chicago, with Ali scoring the win.

Since being released by WWE last fall, Ali has worked the independent circuit and TNA, where he won the X-Division title in February. After losing the title to Mike Bailey in July he departed TNA, losing to Nic Nemeth in a match that had been for the TNA World Championship.

Coming up short in this year’s Best of the Super Juniors tournament, Takahashi has spent most of the summer working both in NJPW and CMLL, where he’s faced off against the likes of Mistico and Templario.

Mercedes Mone, Mustafa Ali matches confirmed for NJPW Capital Collision

New matches for NJPW Capital Collision have been confirmed, including Mercedes Mone and Mustafa Ali in action.

NJPW has officially announced two new matches for the August 30 Capital Collision event after teasing the bouts earlier this week.

NJPW Strong Women’s Champion Mercedes Mone will defend her title against Momo Watanabe at the show as first hinted at early Thursday.

Mustafa Ali will face Hiromu Takahashi in Washington, DC on August 30 after Hiromu issued a challenge to Ali in a video promo earlier this week.

Capital Collision will stream as a pay-per-view on NJPW World on Friday, August 30. The card for the show:

  • NJPW Strong Women’s Champion Mercedes Mone defends against Momo Watanabe
  • NJPW Strong Openweight Champion Gabe Kidd defends against Lio Rush
  • NJPW Strong Tag Team Champions TMDK (Shane Haste & Mikey Nicholls) defend against Hechicero & Virus
  • NJPW Strong Tag Team title number one contender’s match: TMDK (Robbie Eagles & Bad Dude Tito) vs. Grizzled Young Veterans (James Drake & Zack Gibson) vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi & Tomohiro Ishii
  • Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Titan
  • Tom Lawlor & Fred Rosser vs. Jorel Nelson & Royce Isaacs
  • Trish Adora vs. HANAKO
  • Hiromu Takahashi vs. Mustafa Ali

Hiromu Takahashi challenges Mustafa Ali for NJPW Capital Collision

A singles match featuring two junior heavyweights could be added to the Friday, August 30 NJPW Capital Collision card.

In a new video posted to NJPW’s social media accounts, junior heavyweight legend Hiromu Takahashi issued a challenge to Mustafa Ali to face him in a rematch in Washington, DC at Capital Collision:

Hiromu & Ali met earlier this year at Windy City Riot in Chicago on April 12, with Ali scoring the victory.

Capital Collision streams as an NJPW World pay-per-view on Friday, August 30 at 8 p.m. Eastern time from the Entertainment and Sports Arena. The current official lineup for the event is as follows:

  • NJPW Strong Women’s Champion Mercedes Mone in action
  • NJPW Strong Openweight Champion Gabe Kidd defends against Lio Rush
  • NJPW Strong Tag Team Champions TMDK (Shane Haste & Mikey Nicholls) defend against Hechicero & Virus
  • NJPW Strong Tag Team title number one contenders match: TMDK (Robbie Eagles & Bad Dude Tito) vs. Grizzled Young Veterans (James Drake & Zack Gibson) vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi & Tomohiro Ishii
  • Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Titan
  • Tom Lawlor & Fred Rosser vs. Jorel Nelson & Royce Isaacs
  • Trish Adora vs. HANAKO

Mustafa Ali done with TNA Wrestling for now

Image: TNA Wrestling

Former X-Division Champion Mustafa Ali is done with TNA Wrestling as of now, according to a new report from Fightful.

Ali posted a farewell letter to the X-Division last week on social media after his defeat to TNA World Champion Nic Nemeth, but it wasn’t fully clear if he was wrapping things up with his tenure overall.

Ali first announced he was heading to TNA in January as part of a post-WWE “world tour” that has seen him in the rings of NJPW, GCW, Deadlock Pro, and Prestige Wrestling among other groups. He made his TNA debut at February’s No Surrender, defeating Chris Sabin for the X-Division title.

He would wrestle 20 total matches for the company, defending the title eight times in that span in both TNA and several indies. He lost the title to “Speedball” Mike Bailey at July’s Slammiversary.

Ali is still taking indie bookings and has commitments through November which includes a trip to Australia.

Big Vinny V: TNA Impact with Mustafa Ali vs. Nic Nemeth

The main event of TNA Impact this week sees Nic Nemeth defending the world championship against Mustafa Ali. Nemeth is the new World Champion making his first title defense. Ali has been the X Division Champion for most of the year. Both spent several years as major names for the world’s largest wrestling promotion. So why was this match not more of a big deal? And what does it say about Ali’s future with the company?

Plus, The Rascalz have another fun match, the best possible use for Rosemary, and the Knockouts tag division treadmill keeps spinning. All this and more on the Big Vinny V Show!

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