Steve Maclin has confirmed that his departure from TNA Wrestling was his own decision, while new details point to frustration behind the scenes as a key factor in his exit.
After TNA announced his release, Maclin took to social media to clarify the situation and signal what’s next.
“Last week I requested my release from TNA,” Maclin wrote. “I put my blood, sweat, and tears into everything I’ve done over the last 5 years and I’ll always be thankful for my time there. But now, it’s time to STACK BODIES. See you soon,” he added, ending his message with a whiskey-glass emoji.
Maclin joined TNA in 2021 following his WWE run as Steve Cutler and quickly rose up the card. During his five-year tenure, he became a one-time TNA World Champion and a two-time TNA International Champion, establishing himself as a consistent presence in the main event scene.
However, according to Fightful Select, Maclin had grown frustrated with TNA’s creative direction and pay structure in recent months. Reports indicate that the shift toward shorter-term contracts across the roster also played a role in his dissatisfaction. Sean Ross Sapp added that Maclin had hoped to keep his release quiet before the company publicly confirmed it.
Earlier this year, Maclin was written off television through the Feast or Fired stipulation before returning to challenge TNA World Champion Mike Santana. He was reinstated in March and later competed at Sacrifice, where a brief injury scare initially raised concerns, though he was cleared of a concussion.
He remained active in the title picture, including a loss to Santana on a May episode of Impact. In one of his final appearances, Maclin was shown confronting TNA President Carlos Silva at ringside, shouting, “sit back in your cuck chair!”
Maclin was not alone in seeking an exit, as Myla Grace was also released after requesting to leave the company.
Maclin’s next move remains unconfirmed, though his public comments and reported frustrations suggest he is ready for a fresh start elsewhere.
Steve Maclin Requested TNA Release Amid Frustration With Creative Direction and Pay Structure
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