Former TNA talent Master Emir is calling out the company for what he describes as the systematic exploitation of independent wrestlers, accusing TNA of using unpaid labor under the false hope of earning a contract.
On the January 24, 2026 episode of the Caf de Ren podcast, Emir unloaded on the companys backstage practicesclaiming that rather than compensating extras like most major promotions, TNA lures local talent with empty promises and then forces them to perform grunt work for free.
But according to Emir, TNA doesnt pay extras at all. Instead, they allegedly lure in local wrestlers with a promise that over 50% of those who work as extras eventually get signeda line Emir claims is used to bait desperate performers.
Once those hopeful wrestlers show up, Emir claims theyre treated more like unpaid labor than actual prospects. As for in-ring opportunities? Emir said theyre almost nonexistent.
Master Emir made it clear he wasnt making anything up, stressing that what he described came from firsthand experience.
As of now, TNA has not responded to the claims. But the accusations come at a sensitive time for the company, which has recently debuted on AMC and is trying to re-establish itself as a credible alternative in the wrestling industry.
Do you think Master Emirs claims are just the tip of the icebergor is this a case of a bitter ex-talent venting? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Please credit Ringside News if you use the above transcript in your publication.
