TNA Slammiversary 2025 took place at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, marking a significant event for the promotion. AJ Styles, a foundational figure in TNA wrestling who left the company 11 years ago to find success in NJPW and WWE, made a celebrated return. Thanks to a new alliance between WWE and TNA Wrestling, Styles was able to appear at Slammiversary, fulfilling a long-awaited moment for many dedicated TNA fans.
Following Leon Slater’s historic win as the youngest X-Division champion, the arena was filled with classic TNA music as AJ Styles made his entrance. The crowd enthusiastically sang along while Styles embraced Slater in the ring. Styles engaged the audience, asking if they missed him and receiving a heartfelt “welcome” chant in response. He addressed skeptics who doubted his comeback, which the fans booed, emphasizing that the current environment is brighter, the crowd larger, and the talent stronger than ever.
Styles praised Leon Slater, highlighting his achievement as the youngest X-Division champion. When fans shouted “you deserve it,” Styles corrected them, saying Slater “gets it.” He then thanked Slater for his impressive performance as the crowd called for “another match” in Styles’ honor. After more recognition for Slater, Styles declared it was time for him to cement his own legacy, shining a spotlight on the young star in front of a large audience.
At this stage in his career, AJ Styles is already a WWE Hall of Famer, and his return to TNA raises exciting questions about his future in wrestling before he eventually retires.
Fan Take: AJ Styles’ return to TNA underlines a powerful collaboration between WWE and TNA, offering fans a unique crossover moment that enriches the wrestling world. This reunion not only honors wrestling history but also sets the stage for fresh storytelling and elevates new talents, promising an exciting future for the sport.
