TNA Wrestling reportedly announced its talent on Friday, May 2nd, that excessive blood and intentional blades were no longer allowed, and enacted a significant policy change regarding blood use in that match. The news was first reported by Pwinsider.com.
According to the report, TNA officials have communicated new dict orders to the locker rooms during talented meetings or through internal communications today. This policy specifically prohibits heavy blood plates with purpose, and is often achieved by blades (wrestlers intentionally cut themselves). However, the company has admitted that accidental blood, such as false strikes and difficult reductions from bloody noses and mouths, are understandable consequences of physical contact and are still permitted.
The decision to implement the change reportedly was made with multiple factors in mind. Pwinsider noted that protecting the health and safety of performers is the key driver. Furthermore, the move is seen as a way to make TNA products more attractive and acceptable to both current and potential future advertisers and business partners, and is in line with the broader trends in television wrestling entertainment.
This indicates a significant change for TNA. This is a promotion that has been characterized by hardcore matches and significant bloodshed throughout various points of its history. The report showed that the final match was recorded under prior guidelines, characterized by excessively planned blood. This marked the dog collar match between TNA International champions Steve McLin and Eric Young, recorded on TNA Impact Tape in Irvine, California on May 1.
