AMC Executives “Very Happy” with TNA iMPACT Premiere Despite Harsh Criticism

TNA Wrestling’s big AMC debut may have drawn brutal reviews from some fans—but according to a new backstage update, the network itself was more than pleased.

PWInsider’s Mike Johnson reports that AMC executives were in attendance for the January 15 edition of TNA iMPACT! at the Curtis Culwell Center in Texas, and despite the show’s flaws, “the word making its way around AMC yesterday was that execs on site at the Thursday Night Impact premiere were very happy with the show.”

That’s a stark contrast to how the episode was received online. On Cagematch.net, one of the internet’s most-used wrestling databases, TNA iMPACT! currently holds a 1.52 out of 10 rating—a scathing score based on early user reviews.

Part of the backlash likely stems from the notable absences during the broadcast. Steve Maclin, Dani Luna, and several backstage agents were missing due to unresolved visa issues, which prevented them from making the taping. Their absence left gaps in the roster, despite a historic night that featured returns from AJ Styles, Nic Nemeth, and Matt Hardy.

The premiere marked TNA’s first show on AMC and AMC+, ushering in a new distribution era aimed at expanding the promotion’s reach beyond its former AXS TV limitations. And while online reception wasn’t kind, the internal response from AMC suggests the network remains optimistic about the partnership.