TNA celebrated the 2024 Hall of Fame class, inducting iconic figures Rhyno and Bob Ryder. While this year’s ceremony was memorable, it could have been even more special had TNA been able to honor a legendary superstar currently with WWE. However, their request was ultimately declined by the Connecticut-based promotion. Just as WWE hosts its Hall of Fame Ceremony ahead of WrestleMania, TNA has its own tradition of honoring legends during events like Bound For Glory.
Veteran WWE Superstar Proposed for TNA Hall of Fame Induction, But WWE Declined
Rhyno and Bob Ryder made up the 2024 TNA Hall of Fame class, but several other names were also under consideration. According to Fightful Select’s Sean Ross Sapp, Monty Brown, a beloved TNA original, was in the mix for induction. Matt Hardy mentioned that TNA management struggled to reach Brown, speculating that he might be "off the grid." Hardy believed that, considering the ceremony took place in Detroit, Brown would have been an excellent candidate.
Another major name that was heavily considered was AJ Styles, a TNA legend who currently performs in WWE. Reports indicate that TNA presented a plan for Styles’ induction to WWE, but it was turned down. Sources from TNA suggested that Styles' recent injury and ongoing storyline were significant factors in the decision.
It’s worth noting that WWE talent has made appearances in TNA before; for instance, The Rock sent a video message during Ken Shamrock’s Hall of Fame induction. In the ever-evolving landscape of professional wrestling, these interactions highlight a shared respect between organizations, even if some opportunities slip through the cracks.
About AJ Styles
AJ Styles, known as "The Phenomenal One," has had an illustrious career in professional wrestling, marked by numerous championships and accolades across various promotions.
Achievements
WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment)
WWE Championship: 2-time champion, with a notable second reign lasting 371 days, the eighth-longest in history.
WWE United States Championship: 3-time champion.
WWE Intercontinental Championship: 1-time champion.
WWE Raw Tag Team Championship: 1-time champion (with Omos).
Grand Slam Champion: Achieved by winning all four major titles in WWE.
Triple Crown Champion: Recognized for winning the WWE Championship, Intercontinental Championship, and Tag Team Championship.
Slammy Award: Match of the Year (2020) for his Boneyard Match against The Undertaker at WrestleMania 36124.
TNA (Total Nonstop Action Wrestling)
TNA World Heavyweight Championship: 2-time champion.
NWA World Heavyweight Championship: 3-time champion.
TNA X Division Championship: 6-time champion.
TNA World Tag Team Championship: 2-time champion (with Kurt Angle and Tyson Tomko).
First TNA Grand Slam Champion: Recognized for winning all major titles in TNA134.