Visa Issues Force Multiple Changes to TNA Genesis – Several late changes were announced during tonight’s debut episode of TNA iMPACT on AMC, as visa complications affected multiple performers originally scheduled to compete.
On-screen authority figure Santino Marella addressed the status of Dani Luna. Marella explained that “due to an international visa crisis,” Luna would be unable to travel for her advertised Knockouts Championship match against reigning champion Lei Ying Lee. The announcement prompted Sol Ruca and Zaria to come to the ring. Ruca proposed that Zaria step in as the challenger, and after signing the contract, the title match was made official for TNA Genesis.
Visa issues also impacted Leon Slater, who was quietly pulled from the AMC debut card earlier this week. Slater had originally been scheduled to defend against Myron Reed, a match that was removed despite Reed reportedly being willing to honor the booking even after signing with AEW.
Marella later addressed Slater’s status during a backstage segment with Cedric Alexander. Alexander and Moose were preparing for a three-way match when Marella informed them that Slater would not be able to appear due to visa complications. To fill the vacant spot, Marella revealed that former TNA World Champion and current WWE roster member Joe Hendry would take Slater’s place in the match.
The situation has fueled speculation that Slater’s absence may be connected to a potential appearance elsewhere this week. It has been heavily speculated that the UK native could answer an open challenge issued by WWE United States Champion Carmelo Hayes on Friday’s SmackDown from London, England. While unconfirmed, that possibility has been widely discussed following Slater’s removal from the TNA card.
With the changes finalized, the updated lineup for TNA Genesis 2026 on January 17 in Garland, Texas is as follows:
TNA Knockouts Championship
Lei Ying Lee vs. Zaria
Three-Way Match
Joe Hendry vs. Cedric Alexander vs. Moose
Mustafa Ali vs. Elijah
JDC vs. Eddie Edwards in JDC’s retirement match
TNA World Tag Team Championship
The Hardys (Matt and Jeff Hardy) vs. The Righteous (Vincent and Dutch)
AJ Francis vs. Rich Swann
Joe Hendry Concert
Visa Issues Force Multiple Changes to TNA Genesis
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