A massive restructure continues to move steadily forward at TNA, with further departures and arrivals confirmed by the American promotion. News broke yesterday of major exits in the form of TNA President Anthony Cicione, as well as key players Josh Mathews and Christy Hemme.
Cicione had been in the role since February of last year, taking over after Scott D’Amore’s release. While Cicione has exited his presidential role, he remains a part of TNA’s parent company, Anthem.
Senior Producer Josh Mathews had worked at TNA since 2014 before his exit was confirmed. Christy Hemme, in her second stint with TNA, having returned in 2022, had been in charge of the promotion’s social media. Her first spell, a decade-long association from 2006 to 2016, highlighted Hemme’s versatility.
Hemme found success as a ring announcer and backstage interviewer alongside her in-ring achievements. Hemme ranked no. 42 on female PWI rankings in 2008.
Mathews and Hemme are also known for their time in WWE. Mathews finished runner-up to joint winners Maven and Nidia in the first season of Tough Enough in 2001. He also held a number of commentary and interviewing roles during his WWE tenure.
Christy Hemme notably won the 2004 Diva Search. Her highlight as a WWE superstar came in 2005 at WrestleMania, where she fought Trish Stratus for the Women’s Championship in the headline female match.
TNA has been quick to implement new senior staff, with several arrivals already confirmed. George Veras will be taking over as Executive Producer of the Anthem Sports Group Leadership team while Andrea Pagnanelli has been announced as the new SVP of Marketing. Mark Brown has also been named as the new Director of TNA.
Long-serving staff John E. Bravo and Ingrid Isely are now working within TNA’s Talent Relations department. Talent Relations is notably led by Gail Kim, a seven-time TNA Knockouts World Champion and one-time WWE Women’s Champion. Kim will continue in her role.
Bravo and Isely are well-respected members of TNA’s backstage team and their promotions are seen as deserved rewards for their consistently good work over the years. As for a like-for-like replacement for outgoing President Anthony Cicione, Carlos Silva takes up the mantle in that position.
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