TNA Wrestling Bans Throat Slash Gesture and Slaps Now Require Agent Approval

TNA Wrestling is making more behind-the-scenes adjustments, and this time, it’s not just about blood. After already urging talent to scale back on excessive bleeding in recent weeks, a new internal memo has surfaced—and it comes with stricter rules for what can and can’t be done in the ring.

According to a new report from Fightful Select, the latest directive from TNA’s talent relations department includes some unexpected changes. Most notably, wrestlers are now required to get agent approval before using slaps in matches. On top of that, the infamous “throat slash” gesture is officially banned—and it’s not just discouraged. Talent will reportedly be fined $100 each time they use it.

“We got word that the talent relations department passed down a memo that stated that slaps will no longer be allowed unless approved by an agent. In addition, it was noted that throat slashing wasn’t allowed at all, and would come with a $100 fine each time it’s done.”

The move follows weeks of online speculation about a rumored “blood ban” in the company, which President Carlos Silva previously denied. Speaking on The Takedown podcast, Silva clarified that while TNA is being more mindful of advertisers and presentation, they’re not outlawing blood altogether—just asking talent to be smart about it.

“If creative or the talent feel intentional blood or heavy violence is earned for their story or the stakes of the match, it is ‘absolutely’ something TNA is open to exploring using.”

Silva mentioned that these internal shifts are about creating more impactful moments, not softening the product. He even confirmed that the creative team, including Tommy Dreamer, is fully on board with using blood and violence more selectively.

The concerns reportedly started after violent matches like Sami Callihan vs. Mance Warner in a barbed wire brawl, and Steve Maclin’s bloody dog collar showdown with Eric Young. Silva admitted he stayed in close contact with Maclin after the match due to safety concerns from excessive blood loss, but reassured fans that “everything ended up being fine.”

Despite the online noise, TNA isn’t stepping away from edgier content—but they are tightening control over how it’s delivered, especially when it comes to taping logistics and future broadcast partnerships.