TNA Genesis Review – 01.17.26

We’re not in the beginning per se, but it is the first Pay Per View of the year as TNA presents “Genesis” from Garland, Texas at the Curtis Culwell Center. We have survived the Exodus of stars and the introduction of new ones as TNA tries to increase its viewership and revenue Numbers. Let’s see who is victorious and who does the Job. After it’s debut on AMC, we had plenty of Psalms of joy and Lamentations of what transpired by the Judges of such things. Let’s see who will be the Kings (and queens) tonight in the ring. Tom Hannifan and Matthew Rehwoldt will be our major prophets. Gia Miller will offer her Chronicles on what his happening backstage and McKenzie Miller is far from Ruth-less as your ringside announcer. So, let’s get ready for some Impactful Proverbs…I mean, Impactful Discourse. Shall we? We shall.

Before we start, let’s get into some pregame festivities on some hip new thing the youths call Facebook.

TNA International Four-Way Title Match: Channing “Stacks” Lorenzo (with Arianna Grace in tow) vs. Eric Young vs. BDE vs. KJ Orso

For the uninitiated, KJ Orso was formerly known as Fuego Del Sol, making his TNA return after six years. Young is next in his ski mask and poncho gear. Rehwoldt said this is Director of Authority Santino Marella’s trying to “stack the deck” against his future son-in-law. BDE is out next and we get the social media follower numbers for the YouTube star. Lorenzo is last with a stream of boos and some PDA with Grace.

Lorenzo wasted no time getting the action started and immediately attacked Orso. Young did the same to BDE. Young threw BDE out of the ring as Lorenzo beat on Orso on the ropes and hit a BIG backdrop off the ropes. Orso got some momentum as he reversed a whip into the corner with a hurincanrana. He hit a shoulder block in the corner and slid under a Lorenzo boot and then flipped over a Lorenzo shoulder block on the apron.

Orso drove Lorenzo into the ropes after he ducked a clothesline. Lorenzo bucked him but was met with a powerslam for a one-count. Orso locked a cravat hold on Lorenzo but Lorenzo reversed it and turned it to a Snake Eyes (head first elevated slam) into the turnbuckle. Orso regained the momentum by leaping on the apron and catching Lorenzo on the ropes and performing a hurincanrana to the floor.

Meanwhile, Young was verbally accosting the fans on the floor. BDE got to his feet and waited for him to turn around so he could hit him, whilst livestreaming it. While he was streaming, Lorenzo came from behind and waffled him with a shot in the back. Grace grabbed BDE’s phone and hijacked the livestream and taunted BDE. Meanwhile, BDE made it into the ring and dove between the ropes and dropped Lorenzo. Grace threw down BDE’s phone.

All this time, Young recuperated and started to stalk behind BDE. This gave Orso time to hit the ring and dove over the ropes and hit a twisting plancha on Young (file it under didn’t get all of it.) BDE and Orso celebrated whilst Rehwoldt reminded that it is all fun and game until one pinned the other for the title and to get their head in the game.

All four combatants got back in the ring. BDE and Orso hit the 10 punch turnbuckle spot (BDE on Young, Orso on Lorenzo.) The heels, though, blocked whips to the rope and responded with back elbows and then clotheslines. Young and Lorenzo became a de facto heel team and choked BDE and Orso, respectively, in the corners with their boots. Lorenzo backdropped Orso over the top rope. They were going to double team BDE but BDE fought them. BDE rolled under a corner clothesline and hit a Codebreaker on Lorenzo.

BDE hit the Feet of Glory (dropkick) on Young. BDE celebrated and charged Orso. Orso threw him between the ropes and onto the apron and then hit a springboard cutter on the ropes on BDE. Orso hit the Sliced Bread on Young (launching off Lorenzo) and then hit a Asai Moonsault on Lorenzo. Orso hit a double stomp off Lorenzo and then caught a charging BDE in the Orso Driver (similar to the Cradle Shock) for a two count.

Lorenzo got to his feet and hit a running uppercut and a twisting neck breaker on Orso. BDE got to his feet and hit the Clip Cutter (rope assisted cutter.) Young grabbed BDE and hit a wheelbarrow neck breaker and then hit the Piledriver on Orso. However, Lorenzo grabbed Young and threw him to the floor and stole the pin on Orso for the victory.

Post Match:TNA President Carlos Silva presented the title to Lorenzo, although Lorenzo wanted him to put it around his waist and not on his shoulder.

Backstage, Marella was watching on the monitor beside himself until Daria Rae walked into frame and was literally beside him. This is what she was talking about when she said Marella made decisions based on emotion and irrationality. Marella was going to rebut but Rae told him to shut up.

Rae noted this was going to be the match where he punished his future son-in-law but he proved he is a champion and he belongs here. This company is best on competition and we must be fair – and she is very fair. She walked off screen and Marella muttered to himself.

Back to more panel discussions until we go earlier when we see Robert Stone and the Diamond Exchange collective walking backstage. Stone said this night will be their night – like every night is. They accost a stagehand as Tessa Blanchard said TNA always picks the bottom of the barrel. Victoria Crawford wanted him to stop flirting with her (he wasn’t.) They walk by two females who they denigrate (Crawford sat on one girl’s lap and wanted them to stop flirting with her. She wasn’t.) They come across someone named Vicki who is a wrestler (in actuality “Vicious” Vicki Venuto ) Blanchard said they were just talking about opportunities with Mila Moore and they needed someone to wheel their bags to their dressing room.

When she brought up getting an opportunity, Stone would give her an opportunity. He threw his cup down and said here is her opportunity to pick up that cup of coffee. Indi Hartwell walked on screen and said that’s enough and stop acting like she owns the company. Blanchard brought up that she was a former world champion and talk to her with respect. Hartwell said yeah, and that Hartwell beat her. Hartwell turned to Vicki and said if she wants an opportunity, she introduced herself and asked if she wanted to tag to beat these female dogs. They walk off screen whilst Stone reminded them to watch their mouths as the Exchange acted indignant.

And the hits keep coming as the Personal Concierge greets us in the ring and wants us to shut our mouths. A few days ago, was the premier on AMC and it was all over the news, including Yahoo News and Radio and Television (but not Sports Illustrated, they were covering Becky Lynch.) They were talking about….the Elegance Brand (Heather and M.) He is proud to announce the new sheriffs town and new Tag Team Champions of the world and escorted by perfection personified, Mr. Elegance. Mr. Elegance posed on the ring as Heather and M came out in cowboy hats and badges.

The PC wants us to take a look at excellence and elegance. He smelled the Elegance Brand and they smelled incredible, unlike the dirty, disgusting pigs in Dallas smothered in bar-be-cue sauce. They are not going to wrestle, unfortunately, but will be front row in seats that none of us could afford. Get your cameras and get your pictures so you can immortalize the Brand forever (the last time triggered a funny rendition by Rehwoldt of Terry Funk’s now famous repeated utterance of that word.) Hannifan said Funk is rolling over in his grave.

Tessa Blanchard and Mila Moore (with Robert Stone and Victoria Crawford in tow) vs. Indi Hartwell and “Vicious” Vicki Venuto

The heels are out first and pose in the ring. Venuto is out first and had previously wrestled on Impact and Hartwell is out next to a huge pop. Mr. Elegance jawed with Venuto as the Diamond Exchange gathered themselves in the corner.

Blanchard and Venuto started first. Blanchard allowed her to grab a side headlock and then protested when she did and pushed her to the ropes. Blanchard made the same offer but this time pulled Venuto down by her hair. She went after Hartwell but Venuto got a roll up for two. Venuto grabbed an armlock and then tagged Hartwell.

Hartwell hit a vertical suplex on Blanchard and then hit an uppercut int heroes when Blanchard tried to escape the ring. She also hit a big boot on Blanchard when she was draped on the ropes. Venuto tagged and Blanchard got the advantage and got her in the corner where she and Moore mauled Venuto. Blanchard put the boots to her and tagged Moore, who also put the boots on her.

Moore worked Venuto’s’ leg with a series of knee dops and tagged Blanchard. The two hit a double wishbone on her. Blanchard stood on Venuto’s hand and taunted Hartwell. Blanchard went back and attacked the leg. She continued to beat on Venuto and taunt Hartwell.

The By Elegance Brand was sitting ringside and jawed the fans. Meanwhile, in the ring, Blanchard and Moore hit double running knees on Venuto in the corner (Blanchard hit a reverse Meteora and Moore hit a running knee on the apron.) Moore tagged and continued to work on Venuto’s leg and dropped Hartwell with a punch. Moore continued to drive the knee into Venuto’s leg.

Moore dropped Venuto with an elbow and went back to work on the leg. Blanchard tagged and ran Venuto into the corner twice. She faked a charge into the corner, stopped and slapped Venuto. Blanchard taunted the fans and Hartwell and went back to work on Blanchard standing on her in the corner. She also choked Venuto on the ropes with her boot. She did the old school tactic of putting the leg on the rope and then using a rope assisted jumping stomp twice. However, on the third try, Venuto moved her leg and leg pressed Blanchard through the ropes and to the floor.

Venuto made the hope crawl and Hartwell tagged. She dropped Blanchard with a series of clotheslines and a big boot after Blanchard reversed a suplex. Both Moore and Blanchard were subject to Hartwell spinebusters, getting a two count on Blanchard. Hartwell tagged Venuto, who climbed to the top. However, Stone distracted the ref and Crawford yanked on Venuto’s leg and she plummeted to the mat.

Hartwell saw what happened accosted Stone and Crawford on the floor. In the process, though, she stepped on M’s foot. M took umbrage with it and accosted Hartwell. Hartwell slugged M but Heather and Mr. Elegance grabbed Hartwell’s legs when she tried to help her partner and pulled her to the mat. Her partner could have used the help because Blanchard grabbed her and hit the Buzzsaw DDT for the victory.

Post Match: The Diamond Exchange celebrated in the ring whilst Blanchard lip synced the “forever” part of her theme’s chorus.

And now, the main show.

We get the National Anthem from Romeo Vaugh (with the crowd doing the Dallas Thing and yelling “Stars” at that part of the anthem.) We get the introductions and get to our first match

A J Francis (with rapper Primetime in tow) vs. Rich Swann

Francis came to the ring wearing Washington Commanders themed gear. Rich Swann is next with two lovely ladies dancing with him (I’m sure from reputable origins) and adorned in a Dallas Cowboys motif gear. Swann continued to dance in the ring until Francis charged him and dropped him. Francis tried to end the match early with a Down Payment (chokeslam) but Swann headbutted his way to reverse it. He slugged way at Francis’ torso and hit Swann with a kick in the corner.
Swann attempted the 10-punch corner spot but Francis shoved him down – only for Swann to land on his feet and hit a hurincanrana off the ropes. NOW, Swann got the 10-punch corner spot and a series of kicks on the ropes. He clotheslined Francis over the ropes and then attempted to dive between the ropes. However, Francis caught him and tried again to hit the Down Payment on the apron.

Swann landed on his feet and kicked Francis. Swann hit a Twisting Sky Press on Francis and Francis crumpled to the floor. Swann got Francis in the ring and hit a buzzsaw kick. Swann continued his attack but a handspring move off the ropes was met with a forearm smash and Swann landed flat on the mat.
Francis choked Swann on the ropes with his knee. He draped Swann across the ropes and hit a huge forearm smash. Swann tried to rally with a series of punches and kicks. But Swann leapt from the top rope and was caught by Francis. Francis then slammed him to the mat. Swann was slumped in the corner and prone to Francis’ Tennessee Whiskey running knee strike.

Francis choked Swann on the ring steps. Francis threw Swann into the ring and attempted another Down Payment. Swann tried to fight out if it but Francis held on to Swann and flung him from the ring to the floor in an impressive spot. Francis posed in the ring as the referee started to count out Swann. Swann struggled to his feet but made it to the ring in nine (surprise of surprises.)

Francis continued to beat on Swann, thought. He got Swann on his shoulders but Swann elbowed out of it and hit a jawjacker but a big boot off the ropes dropped Swann. Sann locked the chinlock but Swann again tried to get to his feet. Swann Tried to fight out of it but Swann threw him down. A senton was missed and Francis crashed to the mat. Swann recovered and hit a back kick (leaping off Francis to help.) Swann got ready and NOW we get the handspring cutter for a two count. We get a cartwheel moonsault and a 450 splash off the top rope for a two count.

Swann went back to the top but Francis grabbed him and flung him to the mat. Now, Francis climbed the ropes for a moonsault. However, Swann grabbed him but Francis booted him down. Francis put Swann on the top turnbuckle, did a mocking Eddie shimmy and climbed to the top. Swann bit the arm to block the superplex attempt. He headbutted Francis to the mat. He got his breath and leapt from the top but Francis met him with the TFL (spear) in midair for a two count.

Francis tried, yet again, for a Down Payment but Swann reversed it. Swann tried for a sunset flip but Francis blocked it and tried for an Alabama Slam which Swann blocked. Francis got Swann into position and hit the Styles Clash (!). Francis tried for another Styles Clash But Swann was able to block it and reverse it into a Canadian Destroyer for a two count. Swann got to the top rope and hit a flying splash for a two count.

Swann tried for another handspring cutter but Francis caught him and spiked him on his head (almost a reverse Down Payment.) Speaking of which, Francis FINALLY got the Down Payment and got the victory.

Post Match: Francis celebrated on the turnbuckles and brought Primetime into the ring to celebrate with him.

We get the rundown of the card, cumulating with the main event, Mike Santana vs. Frankie Kazarian for Santana’s world tile belt with the stips of the match being a Texas Death Match and that your special referee is Call Your Shot Trophy holder Nick Nemeth. We get highlights of Santana winning the belt on Thursday.

We then go backstage to Miller who is with Santana. Miller asked for his thoughts going into the match. First, Santana asked Dallas “What’s good?” (aside from the Stars, not much. ZING!!!) He had to keep it a buck with us. Thursday, Kazarian gave the fight of his life and gave him props and respect. But tonight, it’s a Texas Death Match. Kazarian knows him better than most and he knows he lives in this pressure. He hopes and prays he brings the fight tonight. He also gave props to those who reached out to him after the title including friends and family. Most importantly, his daughter. It was for him to go home without the title but when he came back with it on Thursday she said “We back, Papi.” He is the illest and realist to ever do it.

Mustafa Ali (with Order Four in tow) vs. Elijah

The extra servicemen are not present. Ali is wearing the same outfit he wore when Elijah lassoed and dragged him on horseback. Elijah is next to a decent pop. We get the full announcement of who he is. Order Four – most notably the Great Hands, John Skyler and Jason Hotch) wasted no time in attacking as Elijah was getting his gear removed on the floor. However, Elijah dodged a Hotch clothesline and backdropped a charging Skyler onto his partner.

Elijah hit the ring but Ali got the upper hand with a series of punches and an eyerake to reverse a chokeslam. Ali grabbed a headlock but after a series of reverses. Elijah grabbed Ali and threw him into the corner. Elijah charged Ali but the Order Four chief flipped over his opponent and hit the ropes. However, Elijah got a huge pop up powerbomb as Ali hit the ropes. Elijah went to the floor and chopped away on Ali. Elijah threw Ali into the ring but Skyler, again, tried to attack. Elijah fended him off and threw him into the ring. He slammed Skyler’s head into the apron.

Elijah tried to get back into the ring but Hotch prevented that from happening. Elijah reversed a throw into the apron into a mule kick. This gave Ali time to recuperate and dive on Elijah between the ropes. Ali threw Elijah into the ring and slammed his injured arm (more later) onto the mat. He dropped his knee on Elijah and hit a penalty kick to the chest.

Ali hit a standing moonsault for a two count as a “you suck” chant emerged. Ali continued to work the injured arm with an armlock. Rehwoldt mentioned that Elijah is just someone in the way of Ali getting a world title shot. Hannifan talked about the rivalry between Ali and Santana last year. Meanwhile, Ali got to the ropes, backflipped to reverse it and sent Ali to the floor.

Elijah, favoring the arm hit the ropes but Ali met him with his rolling neckbreaker through the ropes. Elijah stemmed the tide by blocking another standing moonsault with his feet and both competitors were on the mat. The two traded shots in the “boo/yeah” spot. Ali got a brief advantage by reversing a whip into the ropes and struck the injured arm. Elijah tried to regain the advantage with a float over powerbomb attempt. He did get it back after no selling an Ali superkick with a clothesline.

The two traded go behind reverses, with Ali getting a bellclap but Elijah getting a two count with a jumping knee when Ali hit the ropes. Elijah tried for the Highwayman’s Farewell (tombstone piledriver) but Ali reversed it and threw Elijah into the corner. Elijah charged Ali but Ali caught him and hit a Death Valley Driver for a two count.

Ali gave the signal and ascended to the top for the 450 splash. Elijah moved and Ali rolled though it. However, when Ali charged, Elijah caught him and NOW we get the spinning Highwayman’s Farewell for a two count. Ali did the matrix escape but fell to the mat. Elijah picked up Ai and slugged him. He chopped away Elijah in the corner. He put Ali on the turnbuckles and, despite Ali biting him in the bad arm, and attempted an Avalanche Highwayman’s Farewell.

Sensing a loss, Tasha Steelz got on the apron to distract the referee on the other side of the ring. Meanwhile, the Great Hands pried Ali from Elijah’s grasp. Elijah fended off the team but Ali hit a dropkick to Elijah. Ali got on the apron and attempted a springboard drive. Elijah stopped him and hit the Sky High chokebomb. Before the referee could count, Agent Zero pulled the referee from the ring. She glared at Zero and ejected him from ringside. The Great Hands protested and they got tossed.

In the ring, though, Steelz grabbed the guitar and threatened to hit Elijah with hit. He stopped her and got her in position for the Highwayman’s Farewell. But, Ali grabbed the guitar and “El Kabonged” Elijah’s back. He got Elijah into position and waited for the referee to make it back to ringside and got the prin.

Post Match: Ali celebrated in the ring and hugged Steelz as they made their way up the ramp. Ali mocked playing the guitar as he made his way. Elijah struggled his way up the ring and favored his arm.

We get a preview of the JDC retirement announcement and his request to have his last match to be against Eddie Edwards. We get comments from both in video form and then we go back for the next match.

Retirement match: JDC vs. Eddie Edwards

We get the full chryon for the System as the whole System components come out. Edwards hits the ring first whilst the crowd gives an appreciative round of applause for JDC, who soaks in the moment and the applause. A “JDC” chant emerged as the match started but first sportsmanship is observed…

..but only for a moment as JDC tried for a quick rollup whilst Edwards has his back to him. Edwards applauded the action and we get one quick Fandango dance. The two officially lock up and the two traded armlocks to get an advantage. Edwards dropped JDC with his armlock but JDC got a headscissors to reverse it.

The two locked up and Edwards got JDC in the corner. Edwards hesitated to chop him but JDC did not. JDC got a side headlock but Edwards got an armlock and a headlock of his own to reverse it. Edwards got a shoulderblock off the ropes but JDC countered with a dropkick as Edwards came off the ropes again.

JDC chopped Edwards in the corner and then an armdrag. He hit a shoulderbock off the ropes but fell victim to a clothesline when he tried to capitalize on it. Edwards returned the favor and chopped away on JDC in the corner. JDC regained the advantage when Edwards stopped a charge into the turnbuckles but on the way back, JDC met him with a powerslam for a two count.

JDC chopped away on Edwards in the corners. Rewholdt and Hannifan extolled how JDC is leaving on his arms. Whilst in the ring , Edwards caught JDC with a kick in the corner and then a top turnbuckle hurincanrana. JDC went to the floor and Edwards drove through the ropes and hit a dive on JDC. A “Let’s go Dango” chant emerged as Edwards chopped away on JDC on the floor. JDC returned the favor and then hit a belly to back suplex on the apron.

JDC stood over Edwards on the floor but Edwards grabbed JDC and ran him back first into the ringpost. However, a chop hit nothing but steel and JDC went back on the attack with a series of chops on the floor. Edwards tried to stem the tide with a headbutt and threw JDC into the ring.

JDC continued to counter Edwards, this time with a rolling kick when Edwards got back into the ring. JDC went back to the chops in the corner and on the ropes. The two traded uppercuts on the ropes until JDC landed a running big boot that sent Edwards to the floor again. JDC capitalized with a senton over the ropes on Edwards.

JDC threw Edwards back into the ring and hit a series of running back elbows in the corner only for Edwards to counter with a clothesline int corner. Edwards missed a charge that had him draped on the turnbuckles which gave JDC time to hit a leg drop over the ropes for a two count. Edwards reversed Falcon’s Arrow but JDC hit a tornado DDT in the corner and NOW JDC hit the Falcon’s Arrow for a two count.

JDC climbed to the top rope again but Edwards met him there and slugged away. JDC fended him off but when JDC charged Edwards got a Blue Thunder Bomb for a two count. Edwards hit the sleeper hold and cinched it. However, JDC fought to his feet and backed into the turnbuckle to get out of the hold.

JDC snapmared out but Edwards met him with a back elbow but JDC caught a leaping Edwards and put him into the Walls of Jericho. Edwards tried to escape but JDC dragged him to the middle of the ring. However, Edwards got a quick rollup for a two count. JDC recovered and got a two count from a Code Breaker. A “This is awesome” chant emerged as JDC put Edwards on the turnbuckle.

JDC climbed to the top but Edwards fought him there. Edwars and JDC fought for position until JDC hit an Air Raid Crash from the top for two-and-a-fraction. JDC climbed to the top and attempted the Down and Dirty but got nothing but mat. Edwards got r3ady and hit the Boston Knee Party…for a two count. Edwards set up and hit another Boston Knee Party for..another two count. Edwards pleaded with JDC to stay down but JDC arose to his feet. Edwards hit a superkick and then hit a Die Hard Driver and another Boston Knee Party (with JDC beckoning him) and that did the trick. Edwards got the victory.

Post Match: The Two embraced on the mat as the rest of the System made their way ringside Edwards and JDC embraced and the System surrounded him and raised their hands. The rest of the TNA Impact got on the rampway and applauded JDC. JDC kissed the mat, arose and took in the adulation of the fans. He applauded the fans as a “Thank you, ‘Dango” chant emerged as he made his way to shake the fans’ hands and hugged the TNA Impact crew, including Hannifan and Rehwoldt. JDC made one final pose on the ramp and went backstage.

We went to the BioFlex Medical Report: Elijah is in evaluation after injuring his arm in his match with Ali. Maclin is returning for the tapings in Albuquerque but will be out for Genesis due to the NXT Outlaws attack. The Hardys were evaluated and are cleared, despite not being 100 percent for their match tonight.

Rehwoldt and Hannifan went over the attack by the Righteous on the Hardys. But now, we get the next grudge match

Ryan Nemeth vs. Mara Sade

Nemeth is adorned in a Stars and Stripes tights and gyrated on the turnbuckles and the mat. Sade was out next and did her own gyrating on the ropes and soaked in the pop from the crowd. Nemeth bad mouthed Sade and made the heart bump gesture.

Ryan backed Sade in the corner and blew her a kiss and shoved her. He took time to accost the crowd between the ropes. Sade ducked a go behind and hit a sleeperhold on Nemeth’s back but Nemeth slammed her down. Nemeth posed and insulted the crowd on the turnbuckles. Nemeth grabbed the side headlock but Sade slugged out of it.

Sade tried to get some offense by attempting a hiptoss of the ropes which Ryan reversed. However, Sade landed on her feet and threatened to hit a superkick to a taunting Nemeth. Nemeth hit the floor but Sade got on the apron and dove on him. Sade threw Nemeth in the ring but Nemeth kicked her leg as she tried to enter and Sade fell to the mat. Ryan got on the floor and slammed Sade into the apron.

Nemeth badmouthed Sade on the floor and threw her back int the ring. Nemeth did the one foot taunting cover but got a one count. Nemeth got on the mat and Sade slapped him. Nemeth threw to the mat hair first and made some lewd gestures toward her. Nemeth against tried to slug Sade but Sade blocked and recovered with a series of punches that had Nemeth reeling. A dropkick sent him into the corner and Sade built on the momentum with a flying forearm.

Sade got the crowd riled and hit a Tornado DDT for two-and-a-fraction. Nemeth eye raked Sade and got her on her shoulders. Sade tried to reverse it into a sunset flip but Nemeth sat down on it for a pin attempt by holding the ropes for extra leverage. The referee saw it and stopped the count. Meanwhile, Sade recuperated and hit a Sling Blade off the ropes for a two count. Sade climbed to the top but Nemeth dropkicked her to the apron. Nemeth got her in the ring and NOW got the rope aided rollup for the victory.

Post match: Nemeth continued to bad mouth the crowd and taunted the fans as he made his way backstage.

Speaking of backstage, Grace and Lorenzo are there and talking about the four-way match. She said the odds are stacked against him. This is another example of Marella thinking with feelings and not with his head. Lorenzo said Marella doesn’t have a brain. This was an attempt to embarrass him. Grace said Marella needed to start making decisions that are best for business (hmmm..we’ve heard that before.) What does he have to lose? He lost his daughter, his company title and soon his job to Daria Rae. It doesn’t matter what is in his way, Lorenzo said, he will still be the International Champion,

TNA Knockouts Title Match: Lei Ying Lee (with, eventually, Xia Brookside in tow) vs. Zaria (with Sol Ruca in tow)

Hannifan spoke how Zaria took advantage of Dani Luna’s absence and took the open challenge Lee offered. We get the power metal riff as Zaria made her way to ringside. Lee entered with her standard fare and was soon joined by Brookside in cowgirl gear.

After the introductions, the crowd cheered for both. Zaria and Lee fought for position but Zaria shoved Lee. Lee grabbed a headlock but Zaria blocked a take over and threw Lee into the corner. Lee tried a body press and was blocked. Lee escaped but a rollup in the corner was broken up by Zaria who charged Lee and dropped her to the mat.

Zaria threw Lee into the corner but Lee climbed to the top turnbuckle. She tried a body press which Zaria caught and turned into a delayed suplex for a two count. However, Lee reversed a powerbomb to a series of strikes, cumulating in a seated dropkick. Lee tried the 10-punch turnbuckle sport but Zaria picked her up and threw again to the mat. Zaria then climbed the turnbuckles and picked Lee up for a sleeperhold whilst Zaria stood on the turnbuckles for a two-count.

Zaria continued to pound on Lee hitting aback elbow in the ropes and then a clothesline out of the ropes for a two count. She grabbed Lee and put her in a Texas Cloverleaf (appropriately) and then picked Lee up from the hold to slam her back on the mat. She reapplied the hold. Led fought out of the hold and reversed a boot by Zaria into an ankle lock and then an STO. Zaria reversed it by turning over Lee for a two count. Zaria picked up Lee but Lee got out of it and shoved Zaria into the turnbuckles. Lee slugged away on Zaria and hit a series of chops. A roundhouse kick and crescent kick to the chest dropped Zaria.

However, Zaria met a charging Lee with a back elbow. Lee, though, blocked a kick with a back elbow of her own. Lee STRUCK HER POSE and mounted the turnbuckle and NOW we get the 10-punch spot in the corner. Lee tried for the Warrior’s Way (spinning facebuster) but Zaria elbowed out of it. However, Lee dodged a running boot by Zaria and Lee hit an Exploder Suplex for a two count.

Lee climbed on Zaria’s back for a sleeperhold as Zaria gradually slumped to the mat. Zaria got back on her feet and hit a running cannonball with Lee on her back for a two count. Zaria picked Lee off the canvas and threw her to the corner. Zaria missed the charge and Lee climbed on the challenger to try for a hurincanrana. Zaria would not go down but Lee got to the ropes and both competitors fell to the apron.

The two traded strikes and kicks on the apron. Zaria hit a falling belly to back suplex on the apron. Both competitors were on the floor and we cut to a shot of Heather and M…by Elegance watching from the rampway (and you can see where this might go.)

Zaria and Lee got back in the ring but Zaria hit a huge spear off the ropes. Zaria got Lee on her shoulders for the Zone of Destruction (her F5 finisher.) But, in the process, the referee was struck and crumpled to the mat.

Zaria pinned the champ and Ruca desperately tried to revive the referee by pushing her in the ring. Brookside took umbrage with this and got in the ring, too. Whilst the two were arguing (and the ref recovering and Zaria pinning,) the By Elegance Brand hit the mat (told ya..) However, Brookside and Ruca made amends and slugged the tag champs to the floor. Ruca hit a running bodypress of the ring steps and Brookside hit a flying bodypress of the top turnbuckles. The two brawled with the champs up the rampway.

Meanwhile, Lee and Zaria had time to recuperate. Zaria saw Lee in the corner and charged; but, a spear was evaded and Zaria hit the ringpost. Lee rolled up Zaria for a two count. Zaria dropped Lee with headbutt and Zaria attempted another sleeperhold standing on the ropes. Lee slugged out of it (hitting the injured shoulder.) Lee got on the top rope and hit a hurincanrana from the tope that sent Zaria to the mat. We get the “Aussie, Aussie Aussie/ Oy, Oy, Oy” chant as Zaria and Lee got to their feet.

The two met in the middle of the ring. Both traded shots to the crowd’s delight. Zaria blocked A KICK AND GOT Lee on her shoulders but Lee reversed it into a DDT. Lee hit a spinning roundhouse kick and NOW got Zaria up for a Warrior’s Way (albeit abbreviated) for the victory.

Post Match: Silva got in the ring and gave Lee the title. Lee struggled to her feet but got the title on her. Zaria looked distraught but made it to her feet eventually. The two faced in the idle of the ring and sportsmanship was displayed.

BUT WAIT, Elayna Black’s music played as she made her way to the ramp and threatened Lee. Lee beckoned her to come to ringside but Black stood there and continued to threaten her.

We cut to Kazarian and Santana getting ready for their match. We also see Nemeth put his Call Your Shot trophy with his referee shirt. Tonight, he gets to watch Santana and Kazarian claw and scratch every step of the way to the 10 count victory – may the best man win. He left without the trophy as the camera focused on the title but quickly picks it up for emphasis.

We get a recap of the Hardys vs. Righteous feud, including Thursday’s beatdown by the Righteous

TNA Tag Team Title Match: The Hardys vs. the Righteous

The slide guitar and snapping begin as the Righteous made their way to the ring. The Hardys are next and get their standard huge pop from the crowd. The Hardys don’t wait to get in the ring as they grab Vincent by the legs and drag him to the floor for a beatdown. Duch made his way to the floor and helped Vincent. Dutch beat on Matt as Jeff and Vincent traded shots. Matt threw Dutch into the ringpost as Jeff dove on Dutch from the apron.

Now, the match starts. Jeff and Vincent start. Vincent tried to explain to Jeff what he did but Jeff wasn’t listening. He dropped Vincent and beat on him. Jeff continued the mauling and threw him into the turnbuckle and tagged Matt. The two hit a double back elbow and then hit the fist drop/ body press spot. Matt beat on Vincent and bit Vicnent’s hand. Matt tagged Jeff and the hit the rope guillotine and legdrop on the apron spot.

Jeff tagged Matt and the two hit the Poetry in Motion. Matt continued to beat on Vincent. Vincent tried to rally and beat on Matt but was met with a Side Effect for a two account. Matt signaled for delete but Dutch gabbed him. This gave time Vincent time to recover. Vincent tried to clothesline Matt on the ropes but Matt ducked. However, Dutch was right behind Vincent and dropped him with his clothesline.

Vincent beat on Matt and verbally accosted Jeff. Vincent dragged Matt to his corner and tagged Dutch. Dutch beat on Matt in the corner and landed a huge back elbow. Vincent tagged back into the match. Dutch slammed Matt to the mat and Vincent hit a Flatliner for a two count. The crowd implored the Hardys to recover but Vincent and Dutch beat on Matt in the corner.

Dutch continued to maul Matt and choked him on the ropes with his full girth. Dutch headbutted Matt into the corner and choked him with his boot on the turnbuckles whilst Vincent badmouthed him. Dutch got Matt on his shoulders but Matt rallied and hit a Twist of Fate. Jeff got the hot tag and was a compound on fire as Vincent got tagged. Jeff beat on Vincent and a gourdbuster got a two count. Jeff grabbed Vincent and held him under his arms and bent Vincent backward on his knee. Jeff cinched in the hold until Dutch interfered. Matt slugged Dutch to the floor.

Jeff got to his feet but a Twist of Fate was blocked. However, Matt got the blind tag and the Plot Twist got a two count. Matt stalked Vincent in the ring but Vincent reversed a Twist of Fate but a backslide attempt was met with a back elbow. Matt made his way to the ropes but Dutch tripped him from the floor.

Vincent tagged Dutch and Matt tried to rally but was met with the Death Walks (Bossman Slam.) Dutch slugged Jeff off the apron. Dutch tagged Vincent and Dutch hit his own Twist of Fate as Vincent waited on the top turnbuckle. Vincent hit the Swanton Bomb. However, Jeff dragged Vincent to the apron. Vincent slugged Jeff and threw him into the ringpost.

Matt and Vincent attempted clothesline and dropped each other. Meanwhile, Dutch measured Jeff on the floor but a running leg drop got nothing but mat. In the ring, Vincent and Matt traded punches in the “yeah/boo” spot. Matt got the best of it and attempted a Twist of Fate. Vincent reversed it and begged for mercy on the mat.

Dutch, though, grabbed the mic and said This is exactly what they wanted – to hurt. The crowd chanted for Dutch to “Shut the (For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge) up.” Matt hit another Twist of Fate and tagged Jeff. Jeff climbed to the top and hit the Swanton Bomb for the win.

Post Match: The Hardys celebrated in the ring but Dutch crawled and draped himself on the titles. He prevented Silva from grabbing the titles. The Hardys continued to celebrate but Dutch slowly made his way into the ring and slid the titles to the Hardys. The Hardys looked perplexed as they looked at Vincent and Dutch but posed with the titles. The Righteous slowly made their way up the ramp looking at the Hardys.

Hannifan and Rehwoldt talked about Slater’s match last night against Carmelo Hayes on WWE Smackdown for the United States Championship and why Slater is not here tonight. Hannifan said they are frustrated and disappointed that he could not be here but had a message for the fans.

He apologized for not being there due to situations beyond his control but thanked his fellow Brit, Joe Hendry (who did not appear) for taking his place in the Triple Threat match. He assured Cedric Alexander that he would have his X-Division title match.

We get some hype for the Triple Threat Match

Joe Hendry vs. Cedric Alexander vs. Moose (with Alisha Edwards in tow)

Hendry is out first to a tremendous pop. Hannifan brought up the fact that one year ago at Genesis, Hendry beat Nick Nemeth for the TNA Heavyweight title. Hands were waved, song was sung and Hendry STRUCK THE POSE. Alexander is out next to a good pop and quickly made his way to ringside. Lastly, we get the fanfare and Moose made his way to ringside to a chant of his name to the song.

We see that Leo Asper, head of Anthem Sports and Entertainment is next to Silva and enjoying the evening.

Moose and Hendry face each other as Alexander crouched in the corner. The three trade shots with Hendry getting the quick advantage with a DDT and Alexander countering with his Flatliner between the ropes. Moose hit a huge dropkick on Alexander but an attempted clothesline of Hendry is ducked and Hendry hit a Hurincanrana. Alexander decided to attack but a body press was caught and Hendry hit his Fallaway Slam.

Hendry kipped up, got the crowd in a crescendo and STRUCK THE POSE. He faced his opposition but a leap over the ropes landed on the apron. Alexander and Moose grabbed his legged and threw him to the floor. Moose and Alexander traded shots but Moose hit a powerbomb on the apron. However, Hendry recovered and he hit Moose with a Powerbomb on the apron. He threw Alexnader into the ring but Alexander hit the ropes and dove between the ropes and hit Hendry. Alexander tried to capitalize but a whip into the ringsteps was reversed and Alexander crashed into them. Moose tried to charge and he was backdropped by Hendry onto the steps.

Hendry and the ringside officials checked on Moose, eventually bringing Silva to the floor to check on him. The official ruled out Moose from participating. Hendry looked dejected in the ring as the crowd hit hush tones. Alexander didn’t know what to do but the referee signaled the match to continue and Alexander got behind Hendry and rolled him up for two. Alexander reversed an Olympic slam into an armdrag and hit a German Suplex.

Alexander hit a flying forearm in the corner and got a seated dropkick. Alexnader got the crowd riled and tried to slam Alexander. However, Hendry reversed it and NOW we get an Olympic Slam for a two count. However, Hendry charged Alexander into the corner and was met with a boot. Alexander leapt on Hendry but he caught it, dipped low and hit attempted another Fallaway Slam. Alexander reversed it into a cradle for a two count.

Alexander got a Michinoku Driver for a two count as Alexander glanced over to Moose who was still writhing on the floor. Alexander and Hendry traded chops but after a series of reverses, the two clotheslined each other and both dropped to the mat. The crowd started a “Moose” chant as he got to his feet and made his way into the ring.

Alexander and Hendry both slugged Moose but Moose..ummm..Moosed up and headbutted Alexander. He caught Hendry with an urinagi and a back senton. Moose kipped up – selling the back – and hit Alexander with a dropkick whilst Alexander was on the top rope. Hendry attempted to suplex moose but Moose reversed it with a chop. Moose reversed another Suplex and threw Hendry into the corner. Moose set Hendry on the top rope and hit a top rope hurincanrana. Moose attempted suplex but Hendry reversed it into a suplex of his own.

All this time, Alexander remained perched on the top turnbuckle. When Hendry finished the suplex, Alexander leapt on Hendry for two-and-a-fraction. Alesander attacked Moose in the corner. Alexander reversed a whip into the corner but a charge was reversed and Alexander went to the apron. Alexander recovered and hit Moose with a kick.

Moose shook it off, grabbed Alexander and hit the Go to Hell (chokebomb) for a two count. Hendry recovered and he and Moose traded chops. Hendry started to believe and no sold the chops. He threw Moose into the ropes and a Pop-up Powerbomb got a two count. Hendry kipped up, got the crowd riled but Alexander grabbed Hendry for a Death Valley Driver for a two count. He then locked in a Crossface and cinched it.

Hendry fought desperately but wanted to tap but Moose caught his arm and prevented it. Moose slugged Alexander and threw Hendry to the floor. Moose and Alexander traded fore arms hots but Alexander reversed another urinagi for a two count. He hit a sunset flip for two and then got Moose into a Styles Clash for two-and-a-fraction.

A “This is awesome” chant emerged as Alexander waited for Moose to arise and met him with a series of clothesline that did not drop Moose. Moose hit a big boot but Moose hit the ropes and Alexander met him with a clothesline. Alexander hit the ropes for an Asai Moonsault but Moose met him mid-air for a spear for two.

Alexander got to his feet and hit the Lumbar Check. Alexander went for the pin but Hendry got back in the ring and grabbed Alexander for the Standing Ovation and the victory.

Post-Match: Hendry celebrated on the turnbuckles and more hands were waved from side to side. He STRUCK THE POSE one more time and made his way up the ramp. And, why not, ONE MORE POSE.

We get hype and a rundown of the Card in Alburquerque live Thursday on AMC. Be there….

The Main Event is (almost) next but first, we get Marella (now with new chryon and a vast improvement, I argue.) He greeted the fans and said we got one more match. We are going to get predictions from the likes of Gia Miller,, Dave LaGreca (Busted Open Radio) Tommy Dreamer and Ash..by Elegance, our pre show panelists.

Everyone but Dreamer picked Santana. Dreamer couldn’t give his prediction because Rae interrupted. She wanted the crowd to shut up. She said no one cared what Dreamer thought (well….) another “Shut the (For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge) Up” chant emerged as we get the highlights of the Santana vs. Kazarian feud punctuated with the title change Thursday and the hastily made decision to make Nemeth the special referee and it is a Texas Death Match.

TNA Heavyweight Championship (Texas Death Match): Mike Santana vs. Frankie Kazarian (with special referee Nick Nemeth)

For those not acclimated, a Texas Death Match is one where winner must not have their opponent get to his feet after a 10 count after getting a pin or submission.

Nemeth is out first with his Call Your Shot Trophy and Ref Shirt and tights. Kazarian is out next and jawed with the crowd. Nemeth wanted to hold the ropes for him but Kazarian refused the courtesy. Santana is last and made his way through the concourse in the same face paint he had when he first won the title. He made his way through the crowd to a huge pop.

Santana immediately charged Kazarian when the bell rang. Kazarian bailed to the floor. Santana gave chase and both wrestlers got in the ring. Santana got the better of a slugfest but Kazarian met him with a flying forearm off the ropes. Santana responded with a superkick when Kazarian hit the ropes. Kazarian whipped Santana into the ropes but Santana held on and backdropped a charging Kazarian to the apron. Santana met him with a back elbow. But, Kazarian evaded a running boot and Kazarian got caught in the ropes.

Kazarian grabbed the momentum and attempted the Fade to Black on the apron. Santana reversed it and attempted a piledriver on the apron. Santana missed a kick and Kazarian tripped Santana and he hit the apron and the floor. Kazarian grabbed a chair under the ring. Santana ducked the shot but Kazarian got him in the torso with the chair. Kazarian evaded a run into the ring steps by leaping over them but Santana hit a leaping clothesline off the steps.

Santana grabbed a table and slid it into a ring. He hit another running big boot to Kazarian on the corner barricade. Santana set up a chair next to Kazarian and hit a running cannonball of the chair on Kazarian. The barricade moved and Kazarian crawled his way through the crowd. Santana tried to pin Kazarian in the stands but Kazarian kicked out and made his way around the concourse. Santana hit the 10-puhch spot.

Kazarian grabbed the momentum by hitting Santana and ran him into a trash can. Kazarian and Santana brawled around the concourse. Santana got his breath and continued his beatdown by via a series of punches and kicks. Santana climbed onto the barricade over Kazarian but Kazarian stopped Santana’s attack. Kazarian and Santana brawled on the barricade but Santana slugged Kazarian to the concourse floor and NOW he leapt on Kazarian.

Santana and Kazarian made their way into the back entrance way. Kazarian whipped into a steel sliding door, rammed him into it and then hit Santana with another garbage can. Kazarian posed and grabbed Santana and back to the concourse they went. Kazarian hit a spinebuster on Santana on the concourse floor for a two count. The two made their way back to ringside and Kazarian hit a snap suplex on the floor.
Kazarian grabbed another two chairs under the ring. Santana grabbed one of the chairs and the two dueled with chair shots, but Kazarian got the best of it. Kazarian set up both chairs and lifted Santana for the Fade to Black on the chairs. Santana reversed it and hit a big boot as Kazarian went sprawling over the chairs. Santana stood on the chairs and grabbed Kazarian. He hit a piledirver and got a three count and the 10 count started.

Kazarian, though, got up at nine count. Santana landed a series of punches on Kazarian and then grabbed another table from under the ring. He set the second table on the floor. He beat on Santana and then got him on the apron for another piledriver onto the table.
However, Kazarian grabbed the ropes and ran Santana into the ringpost. However, Santana met a charging Kazarian with a boot. Kazarian climbed on the turnbuckles and attempted a spear but Kazarian reversed it into a cutter on the table. Kazarian got the three count and now another 10 count started.

And, what do you know, Santana got up at the nine count; only for Kazarian to hit a leaping knee to the back and Santana crashed into the ringsteps. A “(For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge) you, Frankie” chant emerged as Kazarian set up the other table and then went to the floor to grab a ladder and brought it into the ring.

Kazarian set up the ladder next to the table in the ring. He STRUCK HIS POSE but this gave time for Santana to grab a barbed wire bat from under the ring (in an impressive shot as he emerged into view behind Kazarian.) Kazarian begged for mercy but Santana charged him. However, the bat struck the turnbuckle and Kazarian grabbed the Chicken wing. However, Santana armdragged him to reverse. Santana hit him in the abdomen with the butt of the bat and then raked the bat across the forehead.

Santana dropped the bat and hit a Michinoku Diver in the corner. He pointed to the table and picked up Kazarian. He put Kazarian on the table and climbed the ladder. He balanced himself, did the Eddie shimmy and dove upon Kazarian..for a two count. A “ref, you suck” chant emerged as Santana jawed with the referee. Kazarian struggled to make it to his feet but the two met with simultaneous clotheslines twice. Kazarian stumbled to Santana and spat on Santana.

Santana grabbed some barbed wire and wrapped it around his arm. Kazarian made it to his feet but Santana hit the Spin the Block for a Three Count. Santana made it to his feet at eight and Kazarian almost made it to his feet at nine but fell back to the mat and Nemeth counted him out.

Post Match: Silva put the title on Santana and the world held its breath. Nemeth held Santana’s arm in victory – and then hit the Danger Zone. Nemeth looked at his Trophy and put it on the announcers desk. He called for another referee. However, this gave Santana time to recover and hit the Spin the Block on Nemeth. Since, Nemeth never officially called his shot, Nemeth retains the trophy but Santana retains the belt. Santana stood on top of Nemeth with the title held high as we end the broadcast.

Impactful Ruminations:

One: There were a hundred ways they could have screwed up the main event and a few that could have gone right. Although not optimal, this was one of the few options that went right. Would we have liked a definitive victory against both? Sure. But, this at least this gives Santana a feud to carry him in his second title against a guy who can carry his own in the ring. I do acknowledge that Nemeth is a little stale, which leads me to who would have been a better candidate.

Two: Mustafa Ali, who carried Elijah to a passable match. I would love to see a rehash of last year’s epic feud (and best match for TNA Impact last year.) Rehwoldt dropped a subtle hint during the match but it could be what TNA needs to showcase what it has.

Three: The ring step spot threw me for a moment until I realized it was a work. Maybe it was a subtle dig at the Darby Allin talk or what not. But, credit to Moose for selling the spot. But, maybe not do so many ring step spots – or even at all. The match itself was fine for the last minute scrambling to replace Slater. The match truly worth watching would have been Slater vs. Alexander and am looking forward to the sequel of their underrated gem.

Four: A title change would have been nice and seen the Righteous win. Now, we keep the mind games going until what seems the inevitable Hardy Compound match. Also, Dutch, you don’t always have to do that with your tongue. Dutch, tongue aside, can really move for a big guy. I did like the psychology of the Righteous paying homage to the Hardys on their Twist of Fate/Swanton Bomb finisher.

Five: This was a great match for Zaria – great job by Lee for guiding her.

Six: Hannifan and Rehwoldt did a great job as usual. Rehwoldt does a masterful job of making salient points and working just enough of the heel side to be a great foil for Hannifan.

Seven: Let’s see how M does in her match with Hartwell. I am sure Hartwell would go over but I really think M has a good future as a singles competitor.

Eight: The Retirement match was fine. Here’s to you, JDC. I do appreciate that you are dedicated to the craft and that you leaned into your characters to get them over to the point one could argue the point that the whole singing or chanting along with a theme came from your Fandango theme.

Nine: I am still waiting to see what Rae and Black do (we get Black’s first match back this Thursday.) Rae made a better accounting of herself on the mic tonight. I just hate the overall trope of it.

Ten: Francis knows how to wrestle big man matches (the one botch aside..you know, that botch.) I would like to see more than being in the “David vs. Goliath” circuit. I do think (the same for Moose) the constant attempt at the finisher only for it to be reversed nine times does get old.

Eleven: Another guy I would look as a great heel in training is Agent Zero. I think he could be a possible contender against Santana once Zero gets some wins under his belt.

Twelve: I do think the Nemeth vs. Jade match went way too long and the wrong person won.

Thirteen: The Diamond Exchange are starting to grow on me. Blanchard is awesome, Stone is great as a goof, Crawford as the oblivious airhead and Moore who is getting her seasoning work well as a team.

Lastly: We’re not going to get a “Cleanse,” are we?