TNA Wrestling: A Complete History of Impact Wrestling
The Founding of TNA (2002–2004)
Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) was officially launched in 2002, focusing on a unique six-sided ring format and an emphasis on high-flying, athletic wrestling. The company initially aired its weekly pay-per-view events and later expanded to television programming with TNA Impact!
Early stars like AJ Styles, Christopher Daniels, and Low Ki helped define TNA’s in-ring style, blending traditional wrestling with innovative aerial maneuvers. The promotion quickly built a reputation for giving wrestlers creative freedom and showcasing talent often overlooked by larger companies.
Rise to Prominence (2005–2010)
During the mid-2000s, TNA expanded its reach and solidified its position as a top wrestling promotion. Key developments included:
Weekly Television Programming: Impact! became TNA’s flagship show, broadcast nationally and internationally
X-Division: Highlighted high-flying, athletic wrestlers like Samoa Joe, AJ Styles, and Christopher Daniels
NWA World Heavyweight Championship Partnership: Initially gave TNA credibility with established wrestling fans
TNA also signed former WWE stars, including Kurt Angle, Sting, and Jeff Jarrett, bringing mainstream attention to the company.
Notable Events and Pay-Per-Views
TNA introduced several signature pay-per-view events that became staples in the wrestling calendar:
Bound for Glory – The promotion’s biggest annual event
Slammiversary – Celebrating TNA’s anniversary with marquee matches
Lockdown – Known for all matches taking place inside a steel cage
These events helped showcase the talent roster and deliver storylines that captivated wrestling fans worldwide.
Evolution to Impact Wrestling (2011–Present)
In 2017, TNA rebranded as Impact Wrestling, reflecting its growing global reach and expanding audience. The company focused on rebuilding its brand, bringing in top talent, and creating new stars.
Current stars include:
Josh Alexander – Technical master and former Impact World Champion
Deonna Purrazzo – Leading the women’s division with dominant performances
Eddie Edwards – Longtime fan favorite and veteran performer
Moose – Powerhouse athlete and rising star
Impact Wrestling continues to innovate with modern storylines, engaging talent, and fan-focused programming.
Legendary TNA/Impact Wrestlers
TNA has produced and showcased numerous wrestling legends and future Hall of Famers, including:
AJ Styles – The cornerstone of TNA’s success and multiple-time world champion
Samoa Joe – X-Division legend and multi-time world champion
Kurt Angle – Olympic gold medalist and top talent in TNA history
Jeff Jarrett – Founder and key figure in TNA’s growth
Sting – Iconic wrestler who brought mainstream attention to the promotion
These wrestlers have helped define the company’s identity and contributed to its lasting legacy.
Impact on Professional Wrestling
TNA/Impact Wrestling has had a significant impact on the wrestling industry:
Created a platform for independent wrestlers to shine on a national stage
Introduced innovative match types and high-flying wrestling styles
Served as a proving ground for talent that later succeeded in WWE and AEW
Engaged a loyal fanbase through television, streaming, and live events
By offering an alternative to WWE, TNA/Impact Wrestling fostered competition, creativity, and global growth in professional wrestling.
Conclusion
Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA), now Impact Wrestling, has carved out a unique and influential place in professional wrestling history. From its founding in 2002 to producing iconic stars like AJ Styles, Samoa Joe, and Kurt Angle, the promotion has consistently delivered innovative matches, engaging storylines, and a platform for top-tier talent.
With signature events like Bound for Glory, a strong roster of stars, and a commitment to fan engagement, Impact Wrestling remains a cornerstone of professional wrestling, continuing to inspire athletes and entertain fans worldwide.