TNA's Mike Santana Reflects on AEW Release as Career Turning Point

The former TNA World Champion opens up about how his departure from AEW motivated him to rebuild his life and career.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:39pm

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Mike Santana, a former TNA World Champion, has opened up about how his release from AEW in 2024 was a pivotal moment that led him to reevaluate his life and career. Santana felt creatively and mentally stagnant during his time in AEW, leading him to request his own release. This decision proved to be a turning point, as Santana rebranded himself and joined TNA Wrestling, where he has since achieved great success, including multiple world title reigns.

Why it matters

Santana's story highlights the challenges that professional wrestlers can face, both in and out of the ring, and how a career setback can sometimes lead to personal growth and renewed success. His openness about his struggles with burnout and sobriety also sheds light on the mental health challenges that athletes in high-stress environments can experience.

The details

After leaving AEW, Santana worked to rebuild his career, rebranding himself and joining TNA Wrestling. He focused on his personal struggles, achieving sobriety after hitting what he called 'rock bottom.' Over time, Santana became stronger both mentally and physically, and in 2026, he became the TNA World Champion, proving himself once more. While that initial reign was short, Santana again became TNA World Champion earlier this year and has been building momentum with every match.

  • In March 2024, Santana asked for and was granted his release from AEW.
  • In 2026, Santana became the TNA World Champion for the first time.
  • Earlier this year, Santana again became the TNA World Champion and has been on a strong run.

The players

Mike Santana

A professional wrestler who currently performs in TNA Wrestling. Santana opened up about how his release from AEW in 2024 was a turning point that motivated him to rebuild his career and personal life.

Eddie Edwards

Santana's upcoming challenger for the TNA World Title at the TNA Rebellion event in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 11.

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What they’re saying

“2 years ago today, I was granted my release. I put a plan together for myself and began to execute. It was the best thing I did for my life and career. Idgaf how long it was going to take but I knew I was going to get shit done!”

— Mike Santana

“I've sacrificed too much and after everything I went thru the last few years, I had a fire burning inside that I wasn't going to let anything extinguish. But above all, my daughter gotta eat! And that she will, by any means! 2 years later, it's amazing to see what I've been able to accomplish. It's been such an amazing ride and to think that this is just the beginning, is so exciting. Follow your heart. That shit never lies.”

— Mike Santana

What’s next

The match between Mike Santana and Eddie Edwards for the TNA World Title will headline the TNA Rebellion event in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 11.

The takeaway

Santana's journey from AEW release to multiple TNA World Title reigns serves as an inspiring example of how a career setback can sometimes lead to personal growth and renewed success. His openness about his struggles with burnout and sobriety also highlights the importance of addressing mental health challenges in the high-stress world of professional wrestling.