Elayna Black Talks Signing With TNA

Elayna Black Talks Signing With TNA – Elayna Black has opened up about why she was initially reluctant to sign with TNA Wrestling, despite her long-standing appreciation for the promotion. Speaking recently on Busted Open Radio, Black reflected on her journey, her mindset following her WWE release, and why TNA ultimately became the right place for her return.

Black officially debuted for TNA on the January 15 episode of iMPACT on AMC, marking the company’s debut on the network. Her first in-ring match for the promotion is scheduled to air on this Thursday’s episode.

“I love TNA. I grew up watching both TNA and WWE. My first ever wrestling event was actually a random TNA house show,” Black said.

She explained that her connection to the company deepened even further during a brief stint last year while she was still under contract with WWE NXT.

“Last year when I was with NXT, I came to TNA for a few months and I had so much fun. I loved everybody there, I loved the environment, I loved the company, I love the product that they put out,” she added.

Black was released as part of WWE roster cuts announced on May 2, 2025. Following her departure, she remained active on the independent scene throughout June and July, working for several promotions including Seth Rollins’ Black Label Pro and GCW. On July 21, she publicly announced that she would be stepping away from wrestling, citing mental health as the reason for her hiatus.

During the interview, Black addressed the working relationship between WWE and TNA, revealing that it played a major role in her early hesitation to sign.

“More so in the beginning, I was hesitant about coming to TNA just because of how close the relationship was. I kind of felt like I needed to distance myself, which I think it was good me taking that time off. I feel very more removed than I did at the time,” she explained.

Shortly after her debut, reports indicated that Black signed a one-year deal with TNA. However, she made it clear that her intentions go beyond the length of her current contract.

“I’m here for the long run. I don’t plan on going anywhere anytime soon. I want to keep progressing my career in TNA,” Black said.

When asked about her long-term goals, Black kept it simple.

“Have fun and be the best version of Elayna Black I can be.”