Empire State Review Contributor 
On January 17, 2026, professional wrestling fans were treated to an electrifying night of action as TNA kicked off its 2026 calendar with the much-anticipated TNA Genesis pay-per-view event. Held at the Curtis Culwell Center in Garland, Texas, the event featured some of the biggest names in wrestling, delivering unforgettable moments and setting the stage for an exciting year ahead.
The main event saw Mike Santana defend his TNA World Championship in a brutal Texas Death Match against Frankie Kazarian. The match was as intense as advertised, with both competitors giving everything they had to secure the coveted title. With Nic Nemeth serving as the special guest referee, the match reached its dramatic climax when Santana retained his championship after executing his signature Spin the Block maneuver. The crowd was on their feet as Santana stood victorious, having successfully defended his title in a fight that pushed both men to their limits.
In addition to the world title match, Genesis featured several other thrilling bouts. The Hardys, known for their legendary tag team legacy, successfully defended the TNA World Tag Team Championship against the team of The Righteous. The match showcased the high-flying, daredevil style that The Hardys are famous for, but The Righteous brought their own brand of chaos to the ring. In the end, The Hardys managed to retain their titles, further cementing their status as one of the greatest tag teams in wrestling history.
Perhaps the most emotional moment of the night came during Johnny Dango Curtis’s retirement match, where Eddie Edwards emerged victorious in a heartfelt contest that marked the end of Edwards’s 27-year career. The match was a tribute to Edwards’s dedication and contributions to professional wrestling, and the crowd gave him a standing ovation as he bid farewell to the ring. The retirement match not only served as a celebration of Edwards’s storied career but also as a reminder of the sacrifices and hard work that come with being a professional wrestler.
Genesis streamed globally on TNA+, further showcasing the company’s expanding footprint in the U.S. wrestling scene and its growing presence in the international market. As TNA continues to make waves in the world of professional wrestling, Genesis 2026 served as a thrilling reminder of the talent and drama that the promotion continues to offer its passionate fan base.
With high-stakes matches and unforgettable moments, TNA Genesis set the bar for what promises to be an exciting year in the world of professional wrestling. Fans are already looking forward to what’s next for TNA as they continue to push the envelope with every event.
