Steve Maclin Returns to TNA

Steve Maclin made a notable comeback to Total Nonstop Action Wrestling (TNA) during Thursday night’s episode of “Impact,” where he faced off against Mike Santana for the world title.

The lead-up to this match was quite dramatic. Their previous encounter at Sacrifice ended abruptly due to an injury, leading to Maclin’s temporary dismissal from the company. However, with the help of Director of Operations Dahlia Ray, he managed to make his way back. There was a lot of buzz surrounding this showdown, as it would determine the new face of TNA.

Before the match began, Ray had a brief segment with Maclin. She offered some supportive words and a reminder of their shared challenges.

Ray remarked, “I remember when you got fired. It’s funny how some boast about loyalty until it becomes an issue. When you confronted Tom Hanifan, it felt like everyone turned on you. They wanted to erase you from our history, but I saw things differently. I know what you can bring to the table when focused.”

She continued, “Tonight, you have a shot that no one else has: take down Mike Santana and bring that title back to someone worthy.”

Eric Young, who is the No. 1 contender for the TNA World Title, also had some words for Maclin before the match, warning him about the “most masochistic” challenge ahead.

Maclin wasn’t holding back; he made it clear that he intended to send Santana to the hospital after an earlier confrontation.

The match started with both competitors having their moments. At one point, Santana regained control and, with a clever aerial move, landed a splash on Maclin who had been knocked outside the ring.

Maclin retaliated well, using his surroundings to his advantage, throwing Santana against the ring post and even setting up a table outside. However, it seemed Santana was struggling a bit as he attempted a clothesline off the stairs.

As the match progressed, both wrestlers pushed each other to the limit. Santana delivered a rolling back 50 and followed it up with a Blue Thunder Bomb but failed to keep Maclin down.

When Santana landed an enziguri, he sent Maclin tumbling off the table he had set. Yet, back in the ring, Santana’s effort was met with a Frog Splash that only resulted in a two-count.

In the heat of the match, Maclin caught Santana off guard with a superkick, but even that couldn’t seal the deal.

Eventually, Santana managed to rally for one final push and clinched the victory, declaring, “This is my home,” as “Impact” wrapped up.

Loss of X Division Championship

The night kicked off with Cedric Alexander celebrating his victory over Leon Slater, which earned him the X Division Championship.

Reflecting on the match, Alexander noted, “Leon, you were just a day away from your dream.” He proclaimed himself as the new face of TNA’s X Division.

“I’ve got issues, though. I can’t even enjoy this moment because someone had to ruin it,” he said, directing his frustrations towards Fabian Aichner, who had interrupted the previous match against Slater.

Aichner responded, indicating he came to TNA to assert his presence and challenge the status quo. “If you want to call yourselves the best, that’s fine. But know that I’m not here to play second fiddle,” he asserted.

A brawl broke out backstage as Bear Bronson and Brian Myers tried to confront Aichner, but things quickly escalated. When Alexander entered the fray, Aichner evaded his attack and countered with a chokehold, leaving Alexander vulnerable.

As tensions simmered, Aichner and Eddie Edwards are set to clash next week on “Impact.”

Santino Marella Addresses Ariana Grace

At ringside, Stacks and his fiancée Ariana Grace were present during the match between Indi Hartwell and Elaina Black. Grace, a former TNA Knockouts Champion, expressed her disdain for Hartwell.

During the match, Stacks attempted to create a distraction, allowing Grace to intervene, but the chaos ended with late-match interference. Grace publicly lamented losing her title, blaming her father, Santino Marella, for her predicament.

Marella, taking the opportunity to address the situation, called Grace’s behavior “classless” and highlighted her need to reevaluate her attitude.

He threatened to use the Cobra on Stacks, but Ray stepped in, reminding Marella that any match would require official approval.

In a twist, Ray announced that Marella would indeed face Stacks in next week’s “Impact.”

Match Results

• Indi Hartwell defeated Elaina Black via DQ.
• “Broken” Matt Hardy bested Vincent.
• Mustafa Ali retained the TNA International Championship against Chaz “Starboy” Hall.
• Shea Brookside defeated Jada Stone.