Current WWE star makes surprise TNA debut; gets immediate championship match
WWE's partnership with TNA iMPACT! has opened a world of opportunities for both promotions. A recent taping of a TNA episode saw a 24-year-old WWE star debut on the promotion.
Over the past several weeks, fans have seen TNA stars such as Jordynne Grace, Joe Hendry, and Frankie Kazarian make waves with their appearances on WWE NXT. The favor was returned by Tatum Paxley at Against All Odds. She challenged Grace for the TNA Knockouts Championship but was unsuccessful.
TNA iMPACT! held its latest television tapings on June 28, 2024, at the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia, PA. At the tapings, Jordynne Grace issued an open challenge for her Knockouts Title. Her call was answered by Izzi Dame of NXT. A fan posted the following on X/Twitter, revealing Dame’s televised debut in the promotion:
"NXT's Izzi Dame is answering Jordan [sic] Grace's open challenge for the TNA Women's Championship."
Izzi Dame was unsuccessful at winning the title. However, it was good to see the 24-year-old superstar get a title match on TNA at a time when she doesn’t have any clear storylines in NXT.
The show also saw Charlie Dempsey arrive at the promotion to kick-start a rivalry.
TNA star Joe Hendry recently spoke about his previous WWE appearances
Joe Hendry made his NXT debut in a 25-man battle royal to determine Trick William’s challenger for his title. Hendry got to cut a promo before the match, but his stay in the ring was short-lived.
However, his appearance broke records and helped him become popular with fans of the Stamford-based wrestling promotion. In a recent interview with Chris Van Vliet, the internet sensation spoke about how a previous WWE appearance gave him a big opportunity. He also talked about some great advice Willaim Regal gave him.
"William Regal had told us when you are asked if you can do something, be the one that steps up," Joe Hendry said.
Stars from both promotions will hope to continue getting some major opportunities during the partnership. That could make them more popular in the industry.