TNA Wrestling is preparing for its iMPACT debut on AMC, scheduled for Thursday, January 15th, held at the Curtis Culwell Center in Dallas, Texas. Reports indicate that AJ Styles, currently a top WWE competitor, will make his highly anticipated return at this event, which has generated excitement among wrestling fans eager to watch his AJ Styles TNA iMPACT debut.
Initial Plans for AJ Styles’ Return
On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer revealed that TNA Wrestling’s original plan was for Styles to challenge Frankie Kazarian for the TNA World Championship during the AMC debut. Kazarian, who recently secured the championship title from Mike Santana on November 13, has openly shown enthusiasm about the possibility of facing Styles in the ring. However, Meltzer also clarified that while the match had been discussed behind the scenes, there has been no official confirmation that Styles will be competing for the championship on Thursday’s broadcast.
Speculation on Future Matchups
The uncertainty surrounding Styles’ lineup for the debut has led to further speculation. Bryan Alvarez suggested TNA may be reserving the highly anticipated Styles versus Kazarian match for the upcoming Genesis event on January 17th, also set for the Curtis Culwell Center. This approach would give Kazarian the chance to retain his championship on AMC’s opening night, while still building anticipation for a title defense at Genesis. If the championship bout occurs at Genesis, it will be Styles’ first TNA match since his departure in 2013, adding significant weight to his return story.
The Importance of AJ Styles’ Return to TNA
AJ Styles has hinted that 2026 could mark the end of his professional wrestling career, making every appearance ever more meaningful for fans and the promotion. The potential for a renewed rivalry between Styles and Kazarian, and the implications for the TNA World Championship, ensure that his comeback is generating strong interest. As speculation continues, all eyes are on whether Styles will step back into the TNA ring for a title match this week, or whether his big moment will be reserved for Genesis.
