Gail Kim Breaks Silence Over TNA Firing

Gail Kim is speaking out following her sudden release from TNA Wrestling—and she’s got a message for fans: this isn’t goodbye.

Kim, widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in TNA Knockouts history, was recently let go from her backstage role in talent relations as part of a broader corporate shakeup by Anthem Sports & Entertainment. Her exit shocked fans and peers alike, but Gail is handling it with grace—and optimism.

In an emotional Instagram statement posted today, Kim said she’s taking time to reflect and recharge, but made it clear that she’s not done with wrestling. “Just wanted to say thank you to the fans, friends and especially my peers for all the support you have given me over the last few days,” Kim wrote. “I’ve received such an enormous amount of love and it really has helped process this change for me.”

She continued, “More than anything I am grateful for all the years and opportunities I was given to help build something I always dreamed of. The [Knockouts] division is and will always be my heart and all the women who were a part of it.”

Kim added that she’s not hanging it up for good: “This will not end my passion or my love for wrestling and this is not the end of Gail Kim in the wrestling world. You don’t put in 17 years in one company and stop when you are this passionate.”

Her departure has already sparked speculation about where she’ll land next. WWE may be unlikely given her history there, but AEW could be on the table—especially with wrestling legend Jim Ross voicing his support.

“I would endorse that. If Tony Khan asked me my thoughts on the matter, I would suggest – go for it,” Ross said on his Grilling JR podcast. “She’s very, very valuable and does a great job. I have great respect for Gail Kim, and her reputation speaks for itself. She gets results. She’s very good at working with talent.”

Kim, a former multi-time champion and TNA Hall of Famer, last wrestled in 2023 for the 1000th episode of Impact. She’s been retired from the ring, but not from the business—and if her passion says anything, she won’t be out of work for long.

Where do you think Gail Kim should go next? Would AEW be a good fit for her talents, or should she branch into something new? Drop your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you.