Mike Santana Posts Emotional Tribute to Late Father on New Year’s Day

TNA Wrestling star Mike Santana started 2026 with a deeply personal message, taking to X/Twitter on January 1 to honor his late father and reflect on the impact that loss has continued to have on his life, career, and family.

Santana opened his post by acknowledging how difficult the day remains, even years later, before explaining that the absence of his father is something he carries with him daily. He made it clear that despite time passing, the connection hasn’t faded—and neither has the motivation to make his father proud.

“Today is always tough. For the last 6 years, not a day goes by where I don’t think or speak about you.”

Santana went on to explain that while he has experienced professional success and personal growth, there’s still a longing to share those moments directly. He admitted that throughout all of 2025, he wished he could talk with his father about everything he had achieved—but believes that presence never truly left him.

“For the entire 2025, I wished I can speak with you about all the cool shit I’ve accomplished. But the truth is, I’ve felt you by my side every step of the way.”

The post wasn’t focused solely on wrestling. Santana shifted the message toward the kind of man and father he’s become, expressing hope that he’s living up to the values his father instilled in him—especially when it comes to raising his own daughter.

“Aside from the wrestling stuff, I hope the man and father I’ve become has made you proud. I strive to share the love and guidance with Ariana, that you shared with me.”

Santana closed the tribute with gratitude and love, signing off with his father’s name and dates, turning the post into both a remembrance and a promise to carry that legacy forward.

“Thank you for making me the man I am today.
I love you, forever pops.
Until we meet again.”

The message quickly resonated with fans, many of whom have followed Santana’s journey through sobriety, personal rebuilding, and his resurgence in TNA.

What was your reaction to Mike Santana sharing such a personal tribute to start the new year? Let us know your thoughts below and feel free to share how moments like this impact the way you see wrestlers beyond the spotlight.