TNA Bans Throat Slash Gesture and Regulates Slaps – TNA Wrestling is making further changes to its in-ring presentation, reportedly issuing new guidelines to talent that tighten control over certain actions during matches and segments.
According to Fightful Select, a recent memo circulated by TNA’s talent relations department outlines the latest adjustments. The most notable change is the complete ban of the “throat slash” gesture — a long-used visual cue by wrestlers to signal a finishing move or intimidate opponents. The report states that any talent caught using the gesture will now be fined $100 per offense.
Additionally, slaps — whether delivered in matches or backstage segments — will now require agent approval beforehand. This policy appears to be part of TNA’s broader effort to monitor physicality more closely, in line with evolving presentation goals.
These directives come shortly after another internal memo instructed talent to reduce the use of blood in matches. While not banned entirely, bleeding was reportedly being used too frequently for TNA management’s liking. The intent, according to the company, is to make such moments feel more meaningful and impactful when they do occur.
TNA star Steve Maclin echoed that reasoning during an interview following the blood usage directive, noting that the move was meant to enhance storytelling and protect the drama of key match moments: “When you use it less, it matters more. That’s what we’re aiming for,” Maclin said at the time.
The newly revealed fines and restrictions indicate that TNA is actively refining its creative direction and in-ring standards. These moves are likely designed not only to improve storytelling but also to align with advertiser expectations and broaden mainstream appeal.
The ban on the throat slash gesture, in particular, is significant given its long-standing usage across multiple wrestling promotions. As TNA continues evolving its presentation in 2025, these changes suggest a company striving to balance tradition with a modern, advertiser-friendly product.
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TNA Bans Throat Slash Gesture and Regulates Slaps
