At the recent TNA Slammiversary event, Leon Slater stunned the wrestling world by becoming the youngest X-Division Champion in history, delivering a breakthrough performance against the reigning champion Moose. This momentous match, held on July 21, 2025, was not only a battle for the title but also a chance for Moose to break the longest reign record once held by Austin Aries. Slater’s victory marked a significant milestone in the promotion’s prestigious X-Division legacy.
Back-and-Forth Action Defines the Championship Match
The bout started with high intensity as Moose attempted to assert his dominance early on, pushing Slater around the ring with power moves. Despite Moose’s fierce offense, including several heavy chops and a signature “GO TO HELL” maneuver, Slater countered with quick strikes, high-flying attacks, and evasive maneuvers. The match featured rapid back-and-forth exchanges: Slater’s agile kicks and dives contrasted sharply with Moose’s brute strength and powerbombs.
At one point, Slater escaped several attempts by Moose to ground him, executing hurrincanranas and dives over the top rope, much to the crowd’s excitement—even when some of these high-risk moves missed their mark. Moose responded with a Pop-up Powerbomb but found Slater tough to keep down, as the younger wrestler repeatedly kicked out of pin attempts and launched a relentless assault including the “Shotai” strike. The match escalated with a series of counters and signature moves: Moose’s spear was narrowly evaded, while Slater delivered inside cradles and high-impact aerial moves such as the Swanton and 450 Splash.
Historic Victory Sealed With High-Flying Finishes
The climax arrived when Slater executed a spectacular combination of moves—a Swanton bomb followed by a 450 Splash—to claim the championship victory. Despite Moose kicking out just before the three-count, Slater’s persistence paid off as he secured the pin and won the title. The audience erupted in celebration as chants of “THIS IS AWESOME” echoed throughout the arena, underscoring the magnitude of the moment.
Sportsmanship and Surprises After the Match
Following the victory, Slater was visibly emotional and celebrated alongside his family at ringside. A touching moment occurred when Moose, despite the defeat, took the X-Division title belt from Carlos Silva and presented it to Slater, symbolizing respect and sportsmanship between the competitors. This surprising gesture was met with enthusiastic approval from fans.
AJ Styles Makes a Triumphant Return to TNA
Just as the celebration seemed complete, the excitement reached another level when AJ Styles made his long-awaited entrance. The crowd roared as Styles returned to the company where his career was forged, greeted by chants of “AJ! AJ!” and “Welcome back.” Styles warmly acknowledged Slater by shaking his hand and embracing him in the ring.
With a microphone in hand, Styles addressed the audience: “TNA! Did you miss me?” he asked, acknowledging the challenges and doubts he had overcome to return. He recognized Slater as the youngest X-Division champion and praised him for embodying the spirit of the division. Styles highlighted the importance of the X-Division’s origins with talents like Christopher Daniels, Samoa Joe, Frankie Kazarian, Homicide, and Jerry Lynn, emphasizing that the division is now in capable and “phenomenal” hands.
Styles’ return energized the event and gave fans a glimpse of the future potential within TNA’s X-Division, promising that Slater and others will carry forward the division’s legacy built on innovation and no-limits wrestling.
Significance of Slater’s Win and Styles’ Return
Leon Slater’s championship win marks a new chapter for TNA’s X-Division, proving that youth and talent can create history. His rise to the title not only breaks records but also revitalizes fan interest in the division. Meanwhile, AJ Styles’ return signals renewed energy and ambition within the company, reconnecting TNA with one of its most iconic performers.
As Styles posed in every corner of the ring, the electrified crowd was reminded of the rich history and promising future of the X-Division. This event showcased both the foundation of TNA’s wrestling excellence and the evolving talents carrying the torch forward. Fans can expect future storylines that capitalize on this momentum, blending the legacy of seasoned stars with the hunger of rising champions.
.@LEONSLATER_ looks to make history by becoming the youngest X-Division Champion of all time RIGHT NOW at #TNASlammiversary!Watch LIVE on TNA+: https://t.co/bUyG5ln9JT pic.twitter.com/rVB1xl0VQb— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) July 21, 2025
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is AJ Styles religious?
A. A.J. Styles is not only known for wrestling but is also a committed Christian. He believes his faith keeps him grounded. Unlike many wrestlers who turn to faith after facing tough times, Styles discovered his beliefs early in his career and used them as a guiding force.
Q. Who defeated AJ Styles in WWE?
A. At Final Resolution on December 9, Styles lost to Christopher Daniels in what was called their “final match.”
