TNA Wrestling Releases Another Former World Champion

In yet another surprise development, TNA Wrestling has released a former world champion and fan favorite.

On Wednesday, reports indicated that TNA Wrestling released Sami Callihan from his contract. Soon after, the 38-year-old Callihan took to X (formerly Twitter) and announced his departure:

Thought I was getting called today to be offered a position in creative… nope.



I've parted ways with TNA.



Oh well… onward to the next adventure.



Check out my company @PWRevolverpic.twitter.com/Se0Bc66t0O

— Sami Callihan (@TheSamiCallihan) June 17, 2026

Earlier in the day, ECW legend Tommy Dreamer also announced his departure from TNA Wrestling. Dreamer, who was in his third stint with TNA, was working as a producer and on the creative team.

On Tuesday, former TNA World Champion Tessa Blanchard was let go after requesting her release. This came nine days after the company released another former world champion, Steve Maclin, and Myla Grace.

Callihan first joined the promotion (then called Impact Wrestling) in 2017. He went on to capture the TNA World Championship at the Oct. 25, 2019, episode of Impact!, defeating Brian Cage.

He held the title for 79 days before losing it to Blanchard, who became the first woman to win the TNA World Championship at the 2020 Hard To Kill pay-per-view.

Sami Callihan Retired From In-Ring Competition Last Summer

Callihan retired after losing to Mike Santana at the TNA Emergence pay-per-view on Aug. 15 of last year. The match stipulation called for Callihan to hang up the wrestling boots if he lost.

In reality, Callihan had fought through numerous injuries and was ready to give his body a much-needed rest. He worked with TNA in a backstage role after losing to Santana.

This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Jun 17, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

2026 The Arena Group Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved.

This story was originally published June 17, 2026 at 2:40 PM.