Posts Tagged ‘Hard to Kill’

Trinity’s WWE Return May Be Stalled Due To TNA Wrestling Commitments

TNA Wrestling presented their Hard to Kill event on Saturday, and a few titles changed hands. After Jordynne Grace won the Knockouts Title from Trinity, many assumed that reports about Naomi’s WWE return were on the money. That comeback may have to wait.

Trinity Fatu’s Current Status

Following her loss of the Knockouts Title to Jordynne Grace at Hard To Kill, some speculated that Trinity’s time with TNA Wrestling had concluded. Contrary to expectations, reports now suggest that her return to WWE might not be imminent.

PW Insider noted that Trinity had additional scheduled dates with TNA Wrestling, and she did not fulfill her commitment on Sunday. This may push her WWE comeback even further.

We are told Trinity had several more dates with the promotion and did not finish up yesterday at TV, where she wrestled Jordynne Grace.

In the past, WWE typically prefers to bring in talent after they wrap up commitments with another television-prominent promotion. They don’t really like to share talent on television, and it’s a rarity that they will even allow a Superstar to do anything else for another company.

TNA Wrestling’s Morale is Good

The report from Mike Johnson further noted that morale within the promotion reportedly experienced a boost after these events, coinciding with the official reintroduction of the TNA brand at Hard to Kill.

It was also noted that Kazuchika Okada’s return to the company after many years was a “healing” moment. This comes after he had been treated so poorly by the previous administration so many years ago.

Trinity may still be WWE-bound, but it appears she has a few more dates with TNA Wrestling to go. Nothing is 100% until contracts are signed, so she may just decide to stick around with the freshly re-branded company, because that option is likely there for her as well.

Posted January 15th, 2024 in News. Tagged: , , , , .

Nic Nemeth Got Chills At TNA Hard to Kill: “This is a Locker Room That Wants to Be the Best”

Nic Nemeth was amazed by the efforts of the TNA Wrestling roster that he was able to watch in person at last weekend’s Hard to Kill event. 

The ‘Wanted Man’ made his debut in the closing moments of Hard to Kill, confronting new TNA World Heavyweight Champion Moose. Nemeth was released from WWE in September 2023, ending his nearly two-decade tenure under contract. 

Nic Nemeth Wowed By TNA’s Roster

Speaking on Instagram Live about his arrival in TNA Wrestling, Nemeth said he was blown away by how hard the roster worked to make Hard to Kill such a success. 

“Not only did I want to make an impact by making an entrance, showing up, making it seem like ‘Man, this is a special moment’ [but] I was trying to figure out the best possible way to do so. Coming down the entranceway, everyone’s doing that. I’m hiding out, watching the show, I got to really, really enjoy the entire card. So I got here secretly and was hiding out, and I was watching on a tiny phone the show all the way through.

“I was blown away by, everybody works hard, in this business. Everybody works hard. But to actually see it come through to fruition, while you’re watching, and you can just see it in the wrestlers’ eyes. You can see it in their faces and their emotions go ‘This is not just a special night. This is a locker room that wants to be the best. Man, it put chills on my arms. 

“This is a special thing. In a world where everybody is special, this was standing out to me. I was so grateful that I got a chance to see it and I go ‘What is the most exciting moment I could do?’ The main event of this special night with the new champion crowned. And I go ‘This is where I can stand out and say everybody If you don’t know about TNA, hopefully you do, and if you already know, it’s just gotten better right now.’

After his debut, Nemeth didn’t waste time in competing in his first TNA match… 

For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops.

Posted January 15th, 2024 in News. Tagged: , , .

TNA Wrestling Announces Partnership with Lucha Libre AAA at Hard to Kill

The new era of TNA Wrestling will see the promotion work alongside Lucha Libre AAA to bring the most exciting stars of both companies to a greater number of fans. 

During Hard to Kill, TNA President Scott D’Amore and Lucha Libra AAA Worldwide CEO Dorian Roldán Peña appeared in front of the fans in Las Vegas, Nevada. D’Amore said that TNA has already been about collaboration and spoke about the mutually beneficial partnership TNA and Lucha Libre AAA have enjoyed over many years. 

Roldán Peña thanked Scott for inviting AAA to TNA, and said he has been thinking about how he could bring more luchadors and Lucha Libre to the U.S. He added that with the flair of Lucha Libre AAA stars and the intensity of TNA talent, they will change the landscape of wrestling over the next year. 

TNA Wrestling & Lucha Libre AAA

This upcoming partnership will hardly be the first time that the two promotions have teamed up. TNA Wrestling and Lucha Libre AAA began a working agreement in 2015, and in 2018, announced a partnership with the AAA-affiliated Lucha Underground. This allowed for AAA wrestlers to appear for TNA (IMPACT Wrestling at the time) on a regular basis. 

In April 2018, the two promotions held Impact vs Lucha Underground from WrestleCon in New Orleans to a sell-out crowd. The following year, IMPACT and Lucha Libre AAA would co-promote the Ultra Clash supershow in the Monterrey, Mexico area. This event marked IMPACT’s first show in Mexico since 2019. 

TNA Hard to Kill went off the air with a massive debut… 

Posted January 14th, 2024 in News. Tagged: , , .

WWE’s Dana Brooke Arrives in TNA Wrestling as Ash by Elegance

Former WWE Superstar Dana Brooke will bring her own sense of elegance to TNA after making her debut at Hard to Kill.

TNA Hard to Kill took place last night and marked the official relaunch of the promotion. The change from IMPACT to TNA Wrestling was announced at Bound for Glory in October 2023. As Alex Shelley told SE Scoops, the fan response to the change was even better than the high expectations those in TNA/IMPACT had for the move. 

Ash By Elegance Arrives in TNA Wrestling

At TNA Hard to Kill, Trinity lost the TNA Knockouts World Championship to Jordynne Grace. Before the match began though, Brooke appeared in the crowd, with a nameplate reading ‘Ash by Elegance.’ The former Superstar was certainly dressed to impress at the show, wearing a bedazzled outfit and white fur coat. 

In a bold move, the TNA commentary team made reference to her time as Dana Brooke and mentioned both her WWE name and her former employer, by name. 

Ash By Elegance

This was Ash’s first appearance in wrestling since her release from WWE in September 2023. Ash had been part of the NXT roster at the time of her release. During a media call, NXT head Shawn Michaels admitted that her release caught him and the NXT backstage team by surprise. 

Ash By Elegance competed for WWE from 2015 until last year. During her tenure, she became a 15-time WWE 24/7 Champion. She would also rack up the second-most days with the gold, only behind R-Truth. 

Posted January 14th, 2024 in News. Tagged: , , .

Trinity Gets Emotional After Knockouts Title Loss at TNA Hard to Kill, Wants Rematch

TNA Wrestling’s Trinity was understandably emotional after losing her Knockouts World Championship at Hard to Kill 2024. 

In the penultimate match of the evening, Trinity lost the title to Jordynne Grace in 14:30. Grace earned a shot at the gold by winning the Call Your Shot Gauntlet at Bound for Glory in October 2023. She was the first woman to win the Call Your Shot Gauntlet. Last night’s victory marks Grace’s third Knockouts World Championship win after previously capturing the gold in January 2020 and at Slammiversary in June 2022. 

Trinity Reacts 

Trinity had held the Knockouts World Championship since Slammiversary 2023 when she dethroned Deonna Purrazzo in July of that year. Understandably, the Glow was emotional after her title loss, as seen in clips shared online. 

What’s Next for Trinity? 

Trinity’s Knockouts World Championship has ended and she’s hungry to regain the gold. On Twitter, Trinity made it clear she wants a rematch with Jordynne Grace. 

Leaving TNA Wrestling? 

Trinity left Hard to Kill without the Knockouts World Championship and could be leaving TNA Wrestling altogether soon enough. Trinity is expected to finish her TNA run at the promotion’s next set of tapings. She is also expected to make her return to WWE later this month as part of the 2024 Women’s Royal Rumble match. 

Trinity, then Naomi, walked out of WWE in May 2022 alongside Mercedes Mone (Sasha Banks). The two had different ideas about the creative plans at the time. The then-WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions felt that their title run was being overlooked as WWE had plans for singles feuds for both women. 

Trinity isn’t the only surprising name the WWE Universe should expect to see at the Royal Rumble… 

Posted January 14th, 2024 in News. Tagged: , , .

Mercedes Mone & Bayley Spotted Watching Trinity’s TNA Wrestling Hard To Kill Match

Trinity Fatu battled Jordynne Grace at TNA Wrestling’s Hard to Kill event. The pro wrestling world was watching, and she had two very special friends who were also there to see her big match.

Mercedes Mone & Bayley Spotted At TNA Wrestling Hard To Kill

TNA Wrestling hosted their Hard to Kill event on pay-per-view. The event featured noteworthy moments, such as Trinity Fatu’s potential final match in the company. 

It was previously reported that the current thought is that Naomi will make her return to WWE. So, Fatu lost her Knockouts Title to Jordynne Grace, marking her 3rd reign with the title.

During Hard to Kill, Mercedes Mone and Bayley were seen behind the French announce team’s table, witnessing the matchup between Trinity and Jordynne Grace. They were not shown on screen during the actual pay-per-view event.

Both Bayley and Money were decked out in shades, and beanies, but they were still spotted. It was obvious who they were, but the two stayed off the radar, because they were not there to be a focus.

What’s Next For Mercedes Mone

As of right now, Mercedes Mone appears to be heading to AEW, but she has not debuted for the company yet. It was reported that talks with WWE stalled, because they were far apart with money. 

Even if Mercedes Mone and Bayley end up in different wrestling companies, they are still very close. Their presence at Hard to Kill also proves that Naomi has their support. 

Posted January 13th, 2024 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , , , , , , .

The Best Moments From TNA Hard To Kill 2024 – Ex WWE Superstars Debut, Title Changes, & More

TNA Wrestling brought their Hard to Kill event to pay-per-view on January 12th. That event also marked the company’s official re-branding effort, and there were a lot of moments that stood out during the show.

AJ Francis Makes Shakes Up Hard To Kill

AJ Francis and DJ Whoo Kid debuted a new music video. Then Joe Hendry came out to shake things up. Whoo Kid blindsided Hendry, and then Francis nailed a chokeslam on him.

New TNA Digital Media Champion

Tommy Dreamer received a brand-new TNA Digital Media Championship from Scott D’Amore in the lead-up to Hard To Kill. Dreamer was set to defend his title against Crazzy Steve.

After a pretty insane match, Crazzy Steve picked up the TNA Digital Media Title from Dreamer, after winning clean.

Knockouts Ultimate-X Match

Gisele Shaw vs. Xia Brookside vs. Jody Threat vs. Tasha Steelz vs. Alisha Edwards vs. Dani Luna lit up Hard to Kill in a big way. Those women left it all in the ring.

Ultimately, Gisele Shaw secured victory in this intense and hard-fought contest, earning the crowd’s appreciation for her impressive efforts. The audience expressed their gratitude with chants of “Thank you, Knockouts,” acknowledging the incredible performance.

New Debut Teased

TNA Wrestling promised a new star, and they teased their arrival during Hard to Kill. Judging by the back view fans received, that definitely narrows down the possible options for the company’s big surprise.

New Knockouts Tag Team Champions Crowned

Rosemary and Havok became the new Knockouts Tag Team Champions, as they defeated MJ Ultra. This marked the second title change of the night after the Digital Media Title.

Chris Sabin Retains X-Division Title

Chris Sabin vs. Kushida vs. El Hijo del Vikingo went down for the X-Division Title. This was a pretty wild match, but in the end, Sabin retained.

Alexander Hammerstone Makes His TNA Wrestling Debut

Alexander Hammersone made his TNA Wrestling debut at Hard to Kill, where he took on former World Champion Josh Alexander. Sean Ross Sapp reported that the former MLW star has not signed a deal with the company yet, so this is a per appearance deal.

Hammerstone and Alexander delivered plenty of chops and strikes. The TNA newcomer hit a sit-out powerbomb for a near fall, and then they continued until Josh Alexander scored the victory with the C4 Spike.

Grizzled Young Veterans Make TNA Wrestling Debut

Grizzled Young Veterans were not happy in NXT, where they were the Dyad and member of Joe Gacy’s Schism faction. They asked for their releases, and those were granted. Then it was time for them to take on the rest of the pro wrestling world without the creative baggage. 

They were a part of the match for the brand-new TNA Tag Team Championships with ABC, The Rascalz, and Laredo Kid & Mike Bailey. Laredo Kid was a late change, as Trent Seven couldn’t make the show due to travel issues. In the end, Chris Bey and Ace Austin retained their titles.

Dana Brooke Makes TNA Wrestling Debut

Brooke was released in September, and her 90-day non-compete clause is over. TNA hyped a big debut, and it appears that the former WWE Superstar fit the bill.

Going as Ash By Elegance, she sat at ringside to survey the action for Trinity Fatu’s Knockouts Title defense against Jordynne Grace.

New TNA Knockouts Champion Crowned

Jodynne Grace battled Trinity Fatu for her Knockouts Title. In the end, Grace won the match and became champion. This was somewhat expected, because the former Naomi is expected to make her WWE return very soon.

Moose Wins TNA World Title

Alex Shelley defended the TNA World Title against Moose in the main event match. In the end, Moose won the title to exit Hard to Kill as champion, but the company had another big surprise in store.

Nic Nemeth Debuts For TNA Wrestling

Nemeth, former WWE Superstar Dolph Ziggler, showed up after the main event match. He jumped Moose, and then made it very clear that he is now with TNA Wrestling.

Now with two more ex WWE Superstars on their roster with Nemeth and Ash By Elegance, TNA Wrestling kicked off their 2024 with a successful re-branding and an exciting event.

Posted January 13th, 2024 in News. Tagged: , .

Alex Hammerstone to debut at TNA Hard to Kill on January 13

Former IMPACT World Champion Josh Alexander is looking for a fight at TNA Hard to Kill and Alex Hammerstone will give him exactly that. 

Hammerstone, a former MLW World Champion, is currently a free agent after finishing his time with the promotion. Earlier this week, Hammerstone issued an open challenge to anybody in wrestling to come and face him. 

Impact/TNA has since confirmed the match has been signed for this historic event.

Josh Alexander Wants Alex Hammerstone

Taking to Twitter, Josh Alexander spoke about his difficult 2023, and what’s to come in 2024. 

“Today is a good day. And it feels good to say that because 2023 was not kind to me. I suffered injury after injury. I lost that thing that I fought so hard to earn and keep in that IMPACT World Championship. More than all that, I lost a piece of myself somewhere along the way. That thing that makes me special.

“But it’s a good day. It’s 2024, it’s a new year. People are settling resolutions and goals and me? I’m no different. See, I intend on getting that piece back in 2024. And I’m going to do that on January 14th at TNA Snake Eyes when I right a wrong and face, once again, Will Ospreay one-on-one.

The Walking Weapon was happy to accept Hammerstone’s open challenge and wants the match to take place at TNA Hard to Kill later this month. 

“TNA is returning on January 13th, one day before that. Live on pay-per-view for the world to see. From the Palms Casino in Las Vegas. TNA presents Hard to Kill. I picked up my phone this morning, scrolling through social media and I stumble upon one of these free agents in the pro-wrestling world. This one’s different from the rest. Rather than asking or demanding an opportunity, this one’s offering one in the form of an open challenge.

“Let me get it out of the way. Alex Hammerstone, I would like to accept your open challenge. I spoke to TNA management already so this match is made, if you choose to accept. And I will give you the opportunity by opening the door here at TNA Wrestling. I will roll the welcome mat all the way down to the ring. You say you’re a shark in open waters? Well come face the standard, the Iron Man, the Walking Weapon and let’s find out. Because 2024, I’m going to get that piece back that I lost along the way and I am going to be the best pro-wrestler on Earth once again and it starts at Hard to Kill and it starts with you Hammerstone.”

TNA Hard to Kill will take place on January 13. The show will mark the official relaunch of TNA after years of being IMPACT Wrestling. Morale within IMPACT/TNA is said to be very high ahead of this monumental relaunch. 

For the use of quotes, please give an H/T to SE Scoops. 

Posted January 4th, 2024 in News. Tagged: , .

Mickie James Wins Knockouts Title at Impact Wrestling’s Hard to Kill PPV

Mickie James’ career lives on, and the wrestling veteran has now added another reign as Knockouts World Champion to her impressive resume.

In the main event of the show, James dethroned Jordynne Grace to start off her fifth reign as Knockouts Champion.

The finish saw Grace lock in a sleeper on the veteran, who slammed Grace into the ring post to break the hold, and leveled her with a tornado DDT to become the new champion.

Speaking backstage after the match, James spoke about the odds being stacked against her going into Hard to Kill.

Last Rodeo

In September of last year, James kicked off her Last Rodeo, vowing to retire from wrestling the next time she lost a match in pursuit of the Impact Knockouts World Championship.

The list of opponents James has defeated in that time includes Mia Yim, Taylor Wilde, and Gisele Shaw, among others.

What’s Next?

image 11
Masha Slamovich became the number one contender for the Impact Knockouts World Championship at Hard to Kill.

Mickie James’ career continues on, but the new Impact Knockouts World Champion will soon face a mammoth challenge.

Hard to Kill also saw Masha Slamovich become the new number-one contender for the Knockouts title, winning a fatal four-way.

Slamovich demolished Deonna Purrazzo, Taylor Wilde, and Killer Kelly to earn a spot at James.

Impact Wrestling has yet to confirm when their title match will take place.

Slamovich debuted for Impact Wrestling in June 2019, but it was only after impressing Impact Wrestling official (and Hall of Famer) Gail Kim) that she was offered a contract in 2021.

Results

Here are the results for Impact Wrestling Hard to Kill 2023.

  • [PRE-SHOW] Kushida defeated Angels, Delirious, ”Speedball” Mike Bailey, Mike Jackson and Yuya Uemura by submission
  • [PRE-SHOW] Impact X-Division Champion Trey Miguel (c) defeated Black Taurus by pinfall (title match)
  • Impact World Champion Josh Alexander (c) defeated Bully Ray by submission (Full Metal Mayhem. Title Match.)
  • The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin) (c) defeated Heath and Rhino, The Major Players (Brian Myers and Matt Cardona) and Bullet Club (Ace Austin and Chris Bey) by pinfall (Fatal Four-Way. Title Match)
  • Impact Digital Media Champion Joe Hendry (c) defeated Moose by pinfall (Title Match)
  • Masha Slamovich defeated Deonna Purrazzo, Killer Kelly, and Taylor Wilde by pinfall (Number One Contenders Match)
  • Steve Maclin defeated Rich Swann by pinfall (Falls Count Anywhere Match)
  • Eddie Edwards defeated Jonathan Gresham by pinfall
  • Mickie James defeated Jordynne Grace (c) by pinfall (Title Change)
Mickie James on Possibly Calling It a Career at Impact’s ‘Hard to Kill’

Posted January 14th, 2023 in News, TNA. Tagged: , .

Impact Roster Pays Tribute to Don West at Hard to Kill PPV

Those working at Impact Wrestling gave a touching tribute to the late Don West at last night’s Impact Hard to Kill Pay-Per-View.

West joined Impact (then NWA:TNA Wrestling) in 2002 and was the voice of the promotion for years.

On December 30, 2022, West died from lymphoma of the brain at the age of 59.

During last night’s show, Impact’s first Pay-Per-View since Don’s passing, the roster gathered on the entrance ramp and a ten-bell salute was given in West’s memory.

Don West

Before coming to wrestling, West made his name on the Shop at Home Network, joining the channel as a knife salesman in 1991.

In 1993, West would be promoted to Sports Collectibles, a position he had applied for years earlier, but had been rejected due to his “scrabbly voice.”

West won over viewers with his passionate, often frantic sales pitches, which were parodied by the likes of Will Ferrell and Chris Kattan on Saturday Night Live.

After turning down an offer to join WCW in early 2001 (wisely seeing that the promotion’s days were numbered) West joined Impact a year later, after Vince Russo introduced him to Jeff Jarrett.

West debuted for Impact on the June 19, inaugural Pay-Per-View, and would later host the YouTube series ‘TNA Today.’

Using his Shop at Home Network skills, West would promote new TNA merch as part of his ‘Don West Brown Bag Specials’ and would be made Head of Merchandise development in 2009.

In May 2012, West parted ways with TNA, having accepted a role as director of sales and marketing for the Wenatchee Wild ice hockey team.

In 2017, West returned to Impact as part of the merchandise team and would commentate one last time at Slammiversary XV that July.

Former TNA Commentator Don West Has Passed Away

Posted January 14th, 2023 in TNA, News. Tagged: , .

Mickie James on Possibly Calling It a Career at Impact’s ‘Hard to Kill’

It’s all settling in for Mickie James. The legendary women’s wrestler has battled top talent on Impact Wrestling in a series of matches dubbed the ‘“’Last Rodeo’”’ in recent months. Often these in-ring experiences have been trips down memory lane for “Hardcore Country.” 

Among them was facing Mia Yim at this stage of her career. It got her thinking about working with a fellow veteran early on in Maryland Championship Wrestling and the opportunities given as a young talent. 

After putting all the blood, sweat, and tears into her body of work it comes down to the aptly titled Impact Wrestling pay-per-view Hard to Kill on January 13. There the future Hall of Famer challenges Knockouts champ Jordynne Grace in a title versus career battle.

James tells us it was around the NWA EmPowerrr show that the wheels were put in motion for this current run. One that sees the 43-year-old come full circle returning to Impact Wrestling. A home for her at different points dates back to Alexis Laree in Raven’s The Gathering during those early TNA days. 

“I didn’t anticipate I was going to come back and be a full-time part of the roster in the first place,” James tells us in an interview. “I think after I lost the championship and the conversation with Tommy Dreamer too. I was like, ‘Tommy I don’t know what I can do. I’ve done so much and been really fortunate to do so much. If I go out, I want to go out on top of my game and not overstay my welcome and not stay too long or when I’m on the downward spiral on my career…’”

She wants to put a bow on things by riding out the old-school way. Working her way up on the grind against a mix of talent including Hyan, Gisele Shaw, Taylor Wilde, and Deonna Purrazzo.

“I wanted to prove that not only I’m the best in the locker room but the best ever. And if I can’t do that I don’t belong here anymore. And then I’m okay with that.”

– Mickie James

The challenger is excited to test her mettle against the imposing Grace. James has upped training ahead of the marquee main event and studied tape. Not only of Grace but a fellow powerhouse in Beth Phoenix.  

“I’ve never faced Jordynne before,” James said. “She is probably one of the hardest-hitting women in wrestling. I can probably just say hardest say in wrestling, and it would be accurate.” 

Thoughts on Retirement

If James walks out the gold, her mindset is it would be the start of one last reign at the top. Although the word “retire” in wrestling is admittedly a difficult pill to swallow. 

“Wrestling is s drug for us,” James said. “Once it’s in our blood, it it’s hard to escape it. There is no better feeling you get than when you’re out there performing in front of people. I never wanted to outstay my welcome. I always want to go out on top and to a place in my career where I was still putting on great matches…I didn’t want to just fade off into the sunset but go out in a blaze of glory.” 

With her in-ring career one way or another coming to an end, she is weighing options. The former multi-time champ would enjoy working behind the scenes and as a coach to help performers with their character development. 

Along with other projects, James would also like to focus on keeping the memory of her grandma’s horse farm alive by finding generational horses. Her son Donovan would certainly enjoy seeing mom at home more. For James, Impact is a special place because it gave her the family she has today. It was the place she got together for her now husband Nick Aldis.

“I’m excited for Nick because he is a free agent,” she said. “He has a lot of options…Maybe it’s time for me to step back so he can have those opportunities because I’ve had a pretty incredible career.”  

James is proud of the evolution of Impact’s Knockouts. She just wishes the company had more visibility as it continues to grow back its fanbase. 

“We have some of the best wrestlers in the world. We have definitely the strongest female roster that one can ever imagine,” James said. “They are getting opportunities like the first-ever Ultimate X match or the Last Knockout Standing and all the things…I don’t know if it’s about that as much as I would love for more people to be able to see it and watch it. I think if more people saw it, they will see how great it is.” 

When comes to summing up her career and Impact Wrestling story, it comes down to one hope. For the small-town girl who lived her dream, it comes down to being remembered. 

“I just want the women to keep thriving and to have made a difference. Hopefully, I’ve done that. And to be honored on the way out on a positive note.”

Catch Impact Wrestling’s Hard to Kill on Pay-Per-View and FITE TV at 8 p.m. ET on January 13

Posted January 9th, 2023 in Interviews. Tagged: , .

Impact Wrestling Confirm Date & Location for Hard to Kill 2023

Impact Wrestling is returning to Atlanta, Georgia next January for its annual Hard to Kill event.

During last night’s Bound For Glory Pay Per View, it was announced that Hard To Kill will be held at Center Stage in Atlanta, Georgia, on January 13.

This will be the first time Hard to Kill will take place in Georgia, after previously being hosted in Dallas, Texas, and Nashville, Tennessee.

Hard to Kill

Despite being the newest Pay Per View event for the company, Hard to Kill has become one of the big four shows that Impact hosts each year.

The inaugural event in 2020 saw Tessa Blanchard capture the Impact World Championship from Sami Callihan, the first (and to date only) woman to win the title.

2021’s event took place without live fans due to the COVID-19 Pandemic and saw Rich Swann, Chris Sabin, and Moose face AEW’s Kenny Omega & The Good Brothers.

Last year’s event saw then-Knockouts World Champion Mickie James retain against Deonna Purrazzo in a Texas Death Match, the first all-female main event.

Main Event?

No matches have been confirmed for Hard to Kill 2023, but we may already know what will headline the event.

During last night’s Bound for Glory Pay Per View, Bully Ray made his return to Impact Wrestling, winning the Call Your Shot Battle Royal.

The Impact Wrestling Hall of Famer has earned a title match at any time of his choosing and could headline Impact’s next Pay Per View.

After the event went off the air, Ray confronted Impact World Champion Josh Alexander, and the two slammed Mike Bennett through a table.

Eddie Edwards on Bound for Glory, Being Impact’s Veteran Performer, More

Posted October 8th, 2022 in TNA. Tagged: .

Deonna Purrazzo on Mickie James Royal Rumble Announcement

Impact Wrestling talent Deonna Purrazzo has shared her thoughts on Knockouts Champion Mickie James Royal Rumble announcement. The Royal Rumble takes place on January 29th.

Purrazzo appeared on Instinct Culture with Denise Salcedo to discuss how she learned of James entering the Royal Rumble match. WWE revealed the shocking news of James’s participation during Friday Night Smackdown last week. The announcement also created more intrigue for her Texas Deathmatch with Purrazzo at Hard to Kill on January 8th for the Impact Knockouts Championship.

When speaking on the WWE reveal, Purrazzo shared that it surprised her.

“I was equally as surprised, I think, as the entire wrestling world. I didn’t know that was going to happen, and I actually just got to my hotel room in Dallas, and Steve(Maclin) put on Smackdown, and there was that announcement, and I was like, oh, um interesting, okay,” said Purrazzo. She explained, “…WWE has kind of a closed-door policy with playing with others and to hear that I think was like the first time in history that they mainly acknowledge other companies like that.”

She also discussed the importance of WWE acknowledging Impact Wrestling.

“…I feel like we don’t get all the credit that we’re deserved and people kind of, you know, let things that happened in the past reflect their opinions on what we are doing now, and it was kind of like a really big thing for us,” said Purrazzo. She also noted that WWE sharing the news first concerned her because they were the main event of Hard to Kill, and they didn’t want new fans to think James WWE’s involvement was the reason. However, she believes that the news created more anticipation for their match.

The WWE Return of Mickie James

James will make her return to WWE after the company released her last April. The WWE sent her personal belongings that she left in a trash bag to her to make matters worse. James spoke about the incident in an interview with Chris Van Vliet. SEScoop’s Chris Stephens transcribed the interview.

“I took it then as they think I am trash,” she continued. “I was with the company for four years, and they think I am trash. All these thoughts were running through my head. If you are already broken, they can be devastating. I am thinking about all of that and all the people who also got released beside me. I see my name on the bag, and it defines which bag is in which box. I’m thinking about the girls, and they wouldn’t say anything because you don’t want to mess up an opportunity for the future. But this Mickie James don’t give a sh*t. I am super grateful for my career and my ability; I couldn’t do it without WWE.”

It seems both James and WWE have settled their differences. James will make history as the first active Impact Knockout Champion to compete in the Royal Rumble.

Posted January 13th, 2022 in TNA, News. Tagged: , , .

ROH Stars Invade IMPACT Hard To Kill

Ring of Honor stars Mike and Maria Bennett, Matt Taven, Vincent and PCO made their presence felt at the IMPACT Wrestling Hard To Kill.

The group appeared following the Hardcore War match on the PPV, attacking the team of Heath, Rich Swann, Willie Mack, Rhino and Eddie Edwards. Heath had just won the match after Rhino hit a Gore on Karl Anderson.

The commentators referred to the situation as an invasion during the PPV broadcast, and it looks as though IMPACT will be running with somewhat of an invasion angle going forward.

ROH Invades IMPACT

IMPACT Invasion

Scott D’Amore was seen backstage in a segment following the attack, and he said that he would be “calling Baltimore to figure out what the hell is going on.”

When the broadcast came back to commentary, the duo questioned if Ring of Honor “sanctioned” the attack, so this might play into the storyline going forward.

ROH is currently on hiatus until April, so this could be part of the plan to keep the brand in fans’ minds ahead of the return date.

The show is available to watch now via FITE TV, with replays ready to stream following the conclusion of the event from Texas.

Posted January 8th, 2022 in TNA, News, ROH. Tagged: .

History-Making Main Event Revealed for IMPACT Hard To Kill

The IMPACT Wrestling Hard To Kill PPV event has already begun, and it has been confirmed during the show that the IMPACT Knockouts match will be main eventing the broadcast.

This will be the first time in both TNA and IMPACT history that a Knockouts Championship match will be main eventing a PPV event.

Mickie James will be defending her IMPACT Knockouts Championship against Deonna Purrazzo in a Texas Deathmatch.

This comes after it was revealed that Mickie James would be part of the 30-Woman Royal Rumble match for WWE at the end of the month.

Hard To Kill 2022 Main Event

The show is available to watch now via FITE TV, with replays ready to stream following the conclusion of the event from Texas.

Here’s the full card for the event:

  • Ace Austin vs. Chris Bey vs. Mike Bailey vs. Laredo Kid in a Fatal 4-Way Match
  • IMPACT X-Division Championship Match – Trey Miguel (c) vs. Steve Maclin – if Maclin loses he can’t challenge for the championship again whilst Trey Miguel is champion
  • IMPACT World Championship Match – Moose (c) vs. Matt Cardona vs. W. Morrissey
  • IMPACT Knockouts Championship Texas Deathmatch – Mickie James (c) vs. Deonna Purrazzo
  • Knockouts Ultimate-X Match – Alisha Edwards vs. Chelsea Green vs. Jordynne Grace vs. Lady Frost vs. Rosemary vs. Tasha Steelz
  • ROH World Championship – Jonathan Gresham (c) vs. Chris Sabin
  • Josh Alexander vs. Jonah
  • Eddie Edwards, Rich Swann, Willie Mack, Heath and Rhino vs. The Good Brothers (Doc Gallows and Karl Anderson) and Violent By Design (Eric Young, Deaner, and Joe Doering) in a 10-man Hardcore War

Posted January 8th, 2022 in TNA, News. Tagged: , , .

ROH World Championship Match Announced For Impact Hard To Kill

Impact Wrestling has confirmed that the ROH world championship will be defended on an Impact show for the first time at the upcoming Hard To Kill PPV.

The company sent out a press release in which they confirmed that Jonathan Gresham will defend his title against Chris Sabin in a one-on-one match.

Gresham won the world title at the ROH Final Battle PPV earlier this month. Final Battle was ROH’s last show before their announced hiatus until April next year.

In the meantime, Jonathan has started defending the title in various promotions. His first successful defense was against AJ Gray at last Friday’s GCW Blood on The Hills.

Impact Hard To Kill Updated Match Card

This is the 8th announced match for the first Impact PPV of 2022. After the latest announcement, here is the updated match card for the show:

  • Impact World Championship Triple Threat Match: Matt Cardona vs. W. Morrissey vs. Moose
  • ROH World Championship Match: Chris Sabin vs. Jonathan Gresham
  • Knockouts Championship Texas Death Match: Deonna Purrazzo vs. Mickie James
  • X Division Championship Match: Steve Maclin vs. Trey Miguel
  • Knockouts Tag Team Championship Match: Madison Rayne and Tenille Dashwood vs. The IInspiration
  • #1 Contender Ultimate X Match For Knockouts Championship: Chelsea Green vs. Lady Frost vs. Tasha Steelz vs. Rosemary vs. Rachael Ellering vs. Impact Digital Media Champion Jordynne Grace
  • Hardcore War: Heath, Rhino, Eddie Edwards, Rich Swann & Willie Mack vs. Violence By Design & Impact Tag Team Champions The Good Brothers
  • Singles Match: Jonah vs. Josh Alexander

Impact Hard To Kill will take place from The Factory in Deep Ellum, Dallas, Texas on Saturday, January 8, 2022.

Jonathan Gresham Wants To Defend ROH Title Against CM Punk & Bryan Danielson

Posted December 24th, 2021 in TNA, News. Tagged: , .

Impact Hard To Kill 2022 Date & Location Revealed

Impact Wrestling has confirmed the date and location for Hard to Kill, the company’s first pay-per-view event of 2022.

Hard to kill is headed to The Factory in Dallas, Texas on Saturday, January 8th.

Although no matches have been announced as of this writing, fans can expect Moose to defend his Impact World Championship against Josh Alexander.

Alexander defeated Christian Cage to win the IMPACT Title during the main event of Bound For Glory. Just minutes later, Moose cashed in his ‘Call Your Shot’ trophy and defeat the new Champion for the belt.

IMPACT Hard To Kill

Mickie James will also likely be part of the next PPV, after defeating Deonna Purazzo for the IMPACT Women’s Championship at Bound For Glory.

You can watch the replay of Bound For Glory via FITE TV. Hard To Kill is also expected to be available on FITE TV as a PPV event.

The show will also be taking place on the same day as New Japan’s Wrestle Kingdom Day 3, which is worth bearing in mind in terms of ‘Forbidden Door’ crossover.

Posted November 3rd, 2021 in News. Tagged: .

Kenny Omega & The Good Brothers Wear Bullet Club Branding At Hard to Kill

When Kenny Omega, Karl Anderson, and Doc Gallows walked to the ring last night at Hard to Kill, they were each wearing Bullet Club branding.

Karl Anderson wore a Bullet Club hoodie to the ring, Gallows’ gear was all decked out in Bullet Club logos and Kenny Omega wore a limited edition Bullet Club Halloween t-shirt as well. The commentary team never referred to them as Bullet Club, however.

Omega and the Good Brothers defeated the team of Rich Swann, Chris Sabin, and Moose on the show. Moose was replacing Alex Shelley, who was pulled from the event in the days leading up to it.

Fans on social media took notice of Omega and the Good Brothers rocking Bullet Club merchandise during their entrances.

https://twitter.com/KhalafSammy/status/1350646775175131136
https://twitter.com/riversinthedust/status/1350664935513194497

The Bullet Club’s Tama Tonga has been critical of the faction’s reunion in AEW and Impact. He believes only the wrestler still in NJPW are true members of the faction. Tonga posted the following last night:

“At this point, it’s only BulletClub when the Tongans are in it. Anything else is just guys that wished they were back in BulletClub,” Tonga Tweeted.

Karl Anderson is one of the 4 founding members of the faction along with Tonga, Bad Luck Fale, and Prince Devitt. Gallows joined later in 2013. Omega wouldn’t join until 2014 as a junior heavyweight.

Posted January 17th, 2021 in TNA, News. Tagged: , , , .

IMPACT Wrestling Hard To Kill Results (1/16)

IMPACT Wrestling held their Hard To Kill 2021 event tonight. The main event of the card was once of the most anticipated bouts of the past couple of months; Kenny Omega and The Good Brothers would team up to take on; IMPACT Champion Rich Swann, Chris Sabin and TNA Champion Moose.

The scheduled main event was originally supposed to see Kenny Omega and The Good Brothers take on Rich Swann and the Motor City Machine Guns. Unfortunately, MCMG member Alex Shelley was unable to appear and therefore had to be pulled from the match. Rich Swann’s longtime rival Moose was then added to the match.

Here’s the quick results from IMPACT Wrestling’s Hard To Kill 2021:

  • Kenny Omega, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson vs Rich Swann, Chris Sabin and Moose. – Kenny Omega took the win for his team after hitting the One Winged Angel on Rich Swann
  • Barbed Wire Massacre: Eddie Edwards vs Sami Callihan – Eddie Edwards took the win after hitting the Emerald Flowsion on a barbed wired covered chair
  • The Karate Man vs Ethan Page – Karate Man took the win after he pulled Ethan Page’s heart out of his chest, seemingly killing him
  • IMPACT Knockout Championship Match: Deonna Purrazzo (c) vs Taya Valkyrie – Deonna Purrazzo took the win via submission to retain her IMPACT Knockouts Championship
  • IMPACT X Division Championship Match: Chris Bey vs Manik (c) vs Rohit Raju – Manik (TJP) took the win after rolling up Raju. Rohit Raju pulled Manik’s mask off during the match to reveal TJP with facepaint. The commentary team pretended at first it wasn’t him
  • Ace Austin vs Matt Cardona – Matt Cardona took the win via DQ when Madman Fulton interfered
  • Knockouts Tag Team Championship Match: Tasha Steelz and Kiera Hogan vs Havok and Nevaeh – Kiera Hogan took the win for her team to win the Knockouts Tag Team Championships. Gail Kim and Madison Rayne appeared after the match to present the newly re-introduced belts to the Champions
  • Eric Young, Joe Doering and Deanor vs Tommy Dreamer, Rhino and Cousin Jake – Eric Young took the win for the newly named Violent By Design after hitting a Piledriver on Cousin Jake. Moments before Eric Young had been dropped onto thumbtacks.
  • Rosemary and Crazzy Steve v.s Tenille Dashwood and Kaleb with a K – Rosemary and Crazzy Steve took the win after spewing mist on their opponents. Crazzy Steve hit a tornado DDT on Kaleb to gain the pinfall
  • Brian Myers vs Josh Alexander – Brian Myers took the win after hitting a Lariat

The official replay for IMPACT Wrestling Hard To Kill will be available to view via FITE TV.

Hard to Kill Videos

Impact Wrestling has updated the following videos from Hard to Kill:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AaN835CK67k

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fntjNAztmos

Posted January 16th, 2021 in TNA, News. Tagged: , .

Impact Hard To Kill Main Event Changed: Alex Shelley Unable To Appear

Impact Wrestling has sent in word that there’s been a change to the main event of Saturday night’s Hard to Kill pay-per-view.

The scheduled main event was supposed to be AEW World Champion Kenny Omega and Impact World Tag Team Champions The Good Brothers vs. Impact World Champion Rich Swann and the Motor City Machine Guns. Unfortunately, MCMG member Alex Shelley will be unable to appear and has been pulled from the match. His replacement will be Moose.

According to Impact, Alex Shelley contacted the company late Thursday night and informed them he will be unable to travel to Nashville, TN for the PPV. The company cited “unavoidable circumstances” as to why Alex Shelley cannot appear.

Moose commented on Twitter, “Hey Kenny Omega, I heard you put on 5 star matches…. GREAT. But the real question is have you ever met a God? You meet one tomorrow night.”

Impact executive Scott D’Amore also commented on the situation:

“When we got the news from Alex there was no question what we needed to do. Extraordinary circumstances call for extraordinary measures – I personally contacted Moose and he accepted the match immediately. I know Rich Swann in particular has his issues with Moose. but this is time to put personal issues and egos aside.

“HARD TO KILL is a huge event for IMPACT Wrestling and a historic one for professional wrestling in general. IMPACT Wrestling needs to put our best foot forward. Moose fits that bill. He is a physical specimen, a five-tool athlete, and has proven himself to be a world-class professional wrestler. Kenny Omega and The Good Brothers will have their hands even more full now when they step into the ring with IMPACT World Champion Rich Swann, IMPACT Original Chris Sabin, and the TNA World Heavyweight Champion Moose.”

Image

Hard To Kill: Updated Card

The following is the updated lineup for Impact Wrestling’s Hard to Kill PPV:

  • Rich Swann, Chris Sabin & Moose vs. Kenny Omega & The Good Brothers
  • Knockouts Champion Deonna Purrazzo vs.Taya Valkyrie
  • Havok & Nevaeh vs. Kiera Hogan & Tasha Steelz to crown Knockouts Tag Teaam Champions
  • X-Division Champion Manik vs. Chris Bey vs. Rohit Raju
  • Old School Rules: Eric Young, Deaner & Joe Doering vs. Cousin Jake, Rhino & Tommy Dreamer
  • Barbed Wire Massacre: Eddie Edwards vs. Sami Callihan
  • Special Attraction: The Karate Man vs. Ethan Page
  • Rosemary & Crazzy Steve s. Tenille Dashwood & Kaleb

Hard to Kill is available for purchase at FITE TV and on traditional pay-per-view via InDemand, DISH, DirecTV, Vubiquity, Rogers, Bell, Shaw, Sasktel.

Posted January 15th, 2021 in TNA, News. Tagged: .

Don Callis Addresses Kenny Omega Competing At Impact’s Hard to Kill PPV

At the conclusion of this week’s Impact Wrestling, Don Callis booked Kenny Omega and The Good Brothers against Rich Swann and the Motor City Machine Guns as the main event for January’s Hard to Kill pay-per-view.

Callis appeared on Figure Four Daily and spoke to Bryan Alvarez about his recent actions. During the discussion, Alvarez asked Callis if he’s received any blowback from Impact for letting another promotion’s champion run rough shot on their show.

“Blowback? Bryan, Kenny Omega, and I are the most talked about thing in professional wrestling and have been for the last 2.5 weeks,” Callis responded. “When you are that big, no one can touch you. Cause you know what they think? They think ‘gee, I kind of wish Don had clued us in but we have Kenny Omega on our show and over a million people saw the Kenny Omega Don Callis interview.”

He added, “Over a million people saw the Tony Khan infomercial.’ Those numbers don’t lie, Bryan Alvarez. So, the words that Impact might be looking for is ‘hey, this is great!'”

Callis continued to talk about how this is an opportunity for someone like Impact World Champion Rich Swann to show the world what he’s capable of.

“Rich Swann is one of the most competitive athletes I’ve ever been around,” Callis continued. “So, all I’ve done is given someone opportunity, Bryan. Here’s your opportunity to get in the ring with the best wrestler in the world, Kenny Omega, with the Good Brothers, and show everyone who you are, and do it in front of more people than you ever dreamed possible. If you call that running rough shot, I call that making dreams come true, Bryan.”

Don Callis Hints At What Might Come Next

Callis was then asked if he can let fans know what might be coming next in the angle.

“This may go on, as my record suggests, for many, many years,” Callis responded. “When you want to imagine what that next move could be, imagine something so big that you didn’t think it was possible and then magnify that by a thousandfold and you might be getting in the ballpark of what’s next.”

The full interview from Figure Four Daily is available here.

Posted December 16th, 2020 in TNA, News. Tagged: , , .

Kenny Omega, Gallows & Anderson Will Reunite At Impact Hard to Kill (1/16)

AEW World Champion Kenny Omega will reunite with Gallows and Anderson at the upcoming Impact Wrestling Hard to Kill pay-per-view.

The reunited Bullet Club partners will face AEW World Champion Rich Swan and the Motor City Machine Guns in a 3-on-3 match.

The match was made at the conclusion of Tuesday’s Impact Wrestling. Rich Swan and the Motor City Machine guns brawled with the Good Brothers backstage when Kenny Omega entered the fray and aligned with his longtime friends.

The match is significant on several fronts. Kenny Omega makes his in-ring debut for Impact. It features a realignment of the Bullet Club. Most significantly, we will see world champions from rival companies competing.

Impact Wrestling’s Hard to Kill takes place Saturday, January 16th, 2021.

Image

Posted December 15th, 2020 in TNA, News. Tagged: , .

Tessa Blanchard Wins Impact World Title At Hard To Kill

Tessa Blanchard has made history by becoming the first woman to win the Impact World Championship at their Hard To Kill PPV this Sunday Night.

Impact had announced that Blanchard will be getting a shot at Sami Callihan’s World title at the PPV. The match took place in the main event of the show and both the stars put on a great performance during the bout.

Callihan tried to distract the referee towards the end of the fight by bringing the world title into the ring. He then put on his brass knuckles while the official was putting the title away.

However, Tessa Blanchard countered his attack by hitting a low blow on the Impact Champion and the match continued after a failed pinfall attempt from the female star.

The ending moments of the match then saw Blanchard hitting two Canadian Destroyers. The second Destroyer came off of the second rope and Tessa then pinned Sami after hitting him with a buzzsaw DDT:

With this win, Tessa Blanchard joins a long list of wrestling legends who have held the Impact World title in the past including the likes of Kurt Angle, Sting and AJ Styles.

Now it would be interesting to see how long her reign as the champion lasts and what challenges Blanchard has to face during her run with the title.

Posted January 13th, 2020 in TNA, News. Tagged: , .

Final Card For Impact Wrestling Hard To Kill, Preview Video

Impact Wrestling is back with another show, so let’s take a look at the card for the Hard To Kill pay-per-view event. 

Hard To Kill takes place tonight (Sunday, January 12, 2020) from The Bomb Factory in Dallas, Texas. Impact World Champion Sami Callihan vs. Tessa Blanchard is expected to serve as the headliner. 

The show kicks off at 8:00 p.m. ET and will be distributed on cable, satellite and digital pay-per-view, including DISH, DirecTV, iN Demand, Vubiquity, Rogers, Bell, Shaw and Sasktel across North America, and streaming live globally exclusively on the FITE.tv app

The building has a maximum capacity of approximately 4,300 people. This will be the first PPV event of the year for Impact. The card that features several big matches, appears to be finalized. 

It’s possible the promotion announces more matches but here’s how the card looks like as of this morning: 

Final Card for Impact Wrestling Hard To Kill

  • Impact World Champion Sami Callihan vs. Tessa Blanchard
  • X-Division Champion Ace Austin vs. Trey
  • Impact Knockouts Champion Taya Valkyrie vs. Jordynne Grace vs. ODB – Triple Threat Match
  • Impact Tag Team Champions The North vs. Willie Mack and Rich Swann
  • Michael Elgin vs. Eddie Edwards
  • Rob Van Dam vs. Brian Cage
  • Moose vs. Rhino
  • Madman Fulton vs. Ken Shamrock

Impact has released this special preview for the event that you can watch here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdMQXC9-OtA

What are your thoughts on match card? Do you plan on purchasing the event? Sound off in the comment section.

Posted January 12th, 2020 in TNA, News. Tagged: .

Rob Van Dam vs Brian Cage Added To Hard To Kill PPV

Impact Wrestling has announced a new match for their January 12th Hard to Kill pay-per-view. A dream match of sorts will take place when Rob Van Dam takes on Brian Cage.

The match between the two was set up this week on Impact, when Rob Van dam and Katie Forbes took their after match celebration to the backstage area near where Cage was being interviewed. After RVD and Forbes agreed to leave the area, Rob Van Dam took some parting shots at Cage for stealing his moves and also for having been pinned by Tessa Blanchard.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k75Xb26XN58

Hard To Kill Pay-Per-View Lineup

Impact Wrestling’s next PPV takes place on January 12th, 2020 from Dallas. The following matches are confirmed for the show:

  • Impact World Championship
    Sami Callihan (c) vs Tessa Blanchard
  • Knockouts Championship
    Taya Valkyrie (c) vs Jordynne Grace vs ODB
  • Impact Tag Team Championships
    the North (c) vs Willie Mack & Rich Swann
  • X-Division Championship
    Ace Austin (c) vs Trey Miguel
  • Michael Elgin vs Eddie Edwards

Rob Van Dam defeated Rhino on the last episode of Impact Wrestling. In Cage’s last match, he was the final elimination in the 6-person elimination match which saw Tessa Blanchard crowned #1 contender.

Posted December 13th, 2019 in TNA, News. Tagged: , , .

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