Anthem Sports Sues Ex-TNA Wrestler Gail Kim Over Contract Dispute

Lawsuit centers on jurisdiction and independent contractor status in wrestling industry

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:13am

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring stark black silhouettes of wrestling figures against a bold red and white background, conceptually representing the contract dispute between Anthem Sports and Gail Kim.As tensions over the rights of independent contractors in the wrestling industry escalate, a high-profile legal battle exposes the complex dynamics between talent and promotions.Seattle Today

Anthem Sports & Entertainment, the parent company of TNA Wrestling, has filed a lawsuit against former talent Gail Kim over a contract dispute. The lawsuit claims Kim threatened legal action against Anthem, arguing they violated the Florida Private Whistleblower Act, though the specifics remain unclear. Anthem asserts Kim's 2022 Services Agreement dictates that any disputes fall under Tennessee law, not Florida law, and that Kim was an independent contractor, not an employee.

Why it matters

This case raises important questions about the rights and protections of independent contractors in the wrestling industry. The outcome could set a precedent for how such disputes are handled, with implications for the broader entertainment business model.

The details

Anthem's lawsuit, filed in Tennessee, seeks a court declaration that Tennessee law prevails over Florida law in this case. The company also aims to solidify Kim's status as an independent contractor rather than an employee, citing her tax forms, remote work, and outside ventures. Anthem is requesting legal fees and costs in addition to the declaratory judgment.

  • The lawsuit was filed on January 10, 2026.
  • The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Kim out on bail.

The players

Anthem Sports & Entertainment

The parent company of TNA Wrestling, a major professional wrestling promotion.

Gail Kim

A former TNA Wrestling talent who Anthem claims threatened legal action against the company.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Gail Kim out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the complex dynamics between entertainment companies and their independent contractors, raising questions about worker protections and the future of the wrestling industry's business model.