After a decorated six-year run with TNA Wrestling, Ace Austin announced his free agency on June 8, signaling the end of his tenure with the promotion. The 28-year-old performer confirmed his departure following the expiration of his contract, declaring on social media, “Change is Inevitable. It’s not a matter of if… but when. -FREE AGENT-.”
Austin’s departure releases a highly accomplished talent onto the open market. Since joining TNA in 2019, he became a central figure on the roster, securing the X-Division Championship on three separate occasions. He also achieved significant success in the tag team division as part of ABC with Chris Bey, winning the TNA World Tag Team Championship three times. His final televised match was a contest against Mustafa Ali, which aired on a recent episode of Impact Wrestling.
A Grateful Farewell
In a heartfelt social media post, Austin reflected on his journey with the company that he considers his first home in the industry. “There’s so much to be said about how phenomenal the last 6 years have been. It’s impossible to caption how much this time has meant to me,” Austin wrote. “I’m grateful for every moment and I’m incredibly proud of the part I played. Representing the company across the world was an honor. This will always be my first home.”
He extended his appreciation to his colleagues and the organization, emphasizing the positive environment and his personal growth. “Thank you @ThisIsTNA and thank you especially to the one of a kind locker room full of amazing, caring, hard working people who helped shape me into the performer and man I am today,” he stated. “I grew up with you and I will cherish that time forever. We’ve all worked so hard and TNA is better than ever.”
The split was amicable, a point reinforced by Austin, who noted the mutual benefits of their relationship. “They gave me an opportunity to shine and I gave them some of the best years of my life. Together we flourished. One of the best things about #TNA is the door always swings both ways.”
Reports indicate that while TNA engaged in negotiations and made an offer for a new deal, Austin declined as he seeks to join a larger wrestling promotion. Former TNA executive Scott D’Amore, who was instrumental in signing Austin, publicly endorsed the wrestler’s future prospects, stating that Austin becoming “a massive star is, indeed, ‘inevitable’” and affirming that “he’s ready for that next chapter.”
READ MORE: Ace Austin Departs TNA Wrestling After Five Years