The “Forbidden Door” in professional wrestling isn’t just staying open — it’s being bolted into place for the long haul.
Since January 2025, the landscape of the industry has been fundamentally altered by the working relationship between WWE and TNA Wrestling. While initial speculation suggested the partnership might be a short-term experiment, new reports indicate that both parties are doubling down on their shared future.
According to a report from Bodyslam+ via their Patreon, the partnership between the two promotions is expected to continue until at least 2028.
WWE and TNA – A Proven Track Record
The collaboration has already yielded significant dividends for both brands. Fans have seen a steady stream of crossovers that were once thought impossible:
- Championship gold: Multiple NXT stars have captured TNA titles, while the legendary Hardy Boyz returned to WWE programming to secure the NXT Tag Team Championship.
- The “Hendry” Effect: TNA’s Joe Hendry became a crossover sensation, appearing at the 2025 Royal Rumble and eventually facing Randy Orton at WrestleMania 41 while holding the TNA World Championship.
- Inter-promotional challenges: Moose recently took Ethan Page to the limit for the NXT North American title, and the trend continues this month. On January 6, TNA X Division Champion Leon Slater is scheduled to challenge Oba Femi for the NXT Championship in a highly anticipated clash.
The AMC Factor
Questions regarding the longevity of the deal surfaced recently following TNA’s major business move: landing a television deal with AMC. With TNA set to begin airing weekly episodes on the network starting January 15, industry analysts wondered if the promotion would look to distance itself from WWE to establish its own independent footprint on cable.
However, TNA President Carlos Silva moved quickly to quell those rumors, stating that the collaboration remains a priority for 2026. The Bodyslam+ report takes it a step further, indicating that the satisfaction with the current business model is mutual and long-term.
The Bottom Line
Per Bodyslam+, both WWE and TNA brass are reportedly “happy with how business is going.” The primary driver behind the extension appears to be the developmental benefits; the partnership provides a unique “lab” for talent to gain experience and exposure outside of their home promotions without the traditional barriers of a “promotional war.”
For fans, this means the unpredictable nature of the last year is becoming the new “standard” for the next three. As Leon Slater prepares for his shot at NXT gold, it appears he is just the latest in a long line of stars who will be crossing the aisle through 2028.
For more on this story, visit the original report at Bodyslam+ on Patreon.