Jeff Jarrett, co-founder of TNA Wrestling, offers a distinct viewpoint on the company’s recent decision to revert from Impact Wrestling back to its original name. In an interview with Wrestlingnews.co, Jarrett revealed that the rebranding had been delayed for some time and believes that abandoning the original TNA name had negatively impacted the company (see interview below).
When asked about bringing back the TNA name, Jarrett responded with enthusiasm: "My immediate reaction was ‘It’s time,’" he said. "When I returned in 2017, I proposed different ideas internally but faced strong opposition."
Jarrett feels that changing the name from TNA to Impact Wrestling was a misstep that confused fans and damaged the brand’s identity. Quoting a seasoned promoter, he said, "If you confuse them, you lose them," emphasizing that the shift away from a name built over nearly ten years caused significant "brand damage." He also noted other changes like removing the six-sided ring and dropping the TNA name contributed to this harm.
Additionally, Jarrett praised current trends in wrestling promotions, including collaboration with WWE. "Ultimately, the wrestling fans come first," he said. "Engaging the audience is crucial, and if promotions can work together, that’s a win-win situation."
Now fully embracing its original identity, TNA Wrestling continues to celebrate its history, including its ongoing Slammiversary Pay-Per-View events and storyline partnerships with WWE’s NXT brand.
Fan Take: This rebranding to the original TNA name is a significant moment for longtime fans craving the nostalgia and identity that first put the promotion on the map. It signals a renewed commitment to honoring its roots while fostering collaboration that could elevate the wrestling industry as a whole.
