In a shocking display of backstage dominance, TNA Wrestling President Carlos Silva has ignited massive fan backlash by yanking X-Division Champion Leon Slater from his dream match against Ricochet at WrestleCon, blocking MJF versus Bear Bronson, and canceling the highly anticipated MJF-Nic Nemeth showdown for Create A Pro. These iron-fisted decisions have sent ripples of frustration throughout the indie scene, with outraged fans accusing TNA of selfishly sabotaging exciting cross-promotional opportunities and depriving the wrestlers of paydays.
According to Sean Ross Sapp, TNA made these moves primarily due to “partner conflicts,” likely stemming from their deepening multi-year partnership with WWE, which now makes AEW a rival. Seemingly, the idea of AEW wrestlers beating TNA wrestlers could harm perceptions of the brand, lowering the relationship’s value to WWE. Still, while aiming to safeguard roster value, the policy risks frustrating talent like Nic Nemeth, disappointing indie promoters, and leaving fans who had already purchased tickets feeling let down.
