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Most of the major signings in the U.S. pro wrestling scene over the past two years have involved the big two promotions, WWE and AEW, either signing talent from each other or inking coveted free agents from elsewhere. To start the new year, however, the third-largest company — in the midst of a rebranding meant to hearken back to its earlier days — is looking to steal some of that spotlight for itself.
In January, Impact Wrestling is kicking off its new/retro era by reviving the TNA Wrestling name in earnest at Hard to Kill in Las Vegas. And to do so, it’s touting a big signing of its own.
Company president Scott D’Amore didn’t hold back on the hype during an appearance on Busted Open Radio today, calling whoever is coming in one of “the biggest signings in TNA” (h/t Wrestling Observer for the transcript).
We’re going to have some surprises for you, some unexpected things including, guys, we are right there at the goal line of finalizing one of, I think, the biggest signings in TNA. I think it’s something that’s really going to shake things up here on January 13.
While there has been speculation about the likes of potential free agents like Kazuchika Okada — who is already slated to appear at the event — other fan theories are even more fun. For example, TNA recently signed a deal with Endeavor, the parent company of WWE, to help launch a new streaming service next month. Does that mean someone like AJ Styles, one of the most influential performers in TNA history, might be able to make an appearance?
Another popular guess is that it could be the former Sasha Banks, Mercedes Moné, who has been training for a return from injury but without a clear indication of where she’d turn up next. And it’s possible it could be another former WWE talent (say, Dolph Ziggler) as well.
Regardless, the tease has wrestling fans talking, which is exactly what TNA likely intended by putting it out there in the first place. TNA Hard to Kill 2024 will originate from Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas on Jan. 13.