Mike Santana returns to TNA and beats former world champion

Mike Santana is one of those wrestlers with untapped potential. Most of his career was in a tag team with Ortiz. Santana decided it was time to spread his wings as a solo act, but he didn’t receive much opportunity in AEW. After parting ways with that company, Santana now has a new home. It’s a familiar one in that. Santana made a surprise return to TNA at Rebellion (Apr. 20, 2024), and he is already starting strong with a win over a former world champion.

Steve Maclin interrupted the show with news of a new contract for himself. However, he had one final demand. Maclin wanted a match on the PPV. Director of Authority Santino Marella had the man for the task. He just signed another wrestler to a TNA contract.

Enter Santana through the crowd for his return to the Impact Zone. Santana is a four-time Impact tag champ with Ortiz, and they also won the GFW tag titles under the TNA umbrella.

Santana was full of fire early with a dive to the outside.

Maclin gained control slowing the pace to grind his opponent. Santana had tricks up his sleeve for a rolling cutter and catching Maclin in the air for a Death Valley Driver counter. Santana’s finisher was a discus lariat. The first two attempts were aborted due to Maclin’s evasiveness. As the match progressed, third time was the charm. Santana booted Maclin in the mush to stun him long enough for the final blow. Victory went to Santana.

For full results to TNA Rebellion, click here. The PPV is available for viewing through TNA+, TrillerTV powered by Fite, and various other outlets.

Share your reaction to Santana’s surprise return to TNA. How high do you think his ceiling is as a singles star in the Impact Zone?