Released WWE Superstar Makes Successful TNA Wrestling Debut

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Fernando Quiles Jr. | Last updated May 15, 2025 10:07 PM ET

One released WWE superstar has made a successful debut for TNA Wrestling.

WWE announces multiple roster cuts yearly. A recent wave saw some names that had been featured on weekly WWE shows lose their jobs. While those stars await the expiration of their non-compete clauses, released talent from previous waves are free to sign with any promotion.

Indi Hartwell was let go by WWE in 2024, and she recently appeared on "TNA Rebellion" to announce that she has inked a deal with TNA Wrestling. Hartwell had her first match for the promotion on Thursday's episode of "TNA iMPACT."

She shared the ring with Kelsey Heather. Hartwell was slapped by Heather early on in the match, but that only fired her up. She scored the pin after hitting her Hurts Donut finishing move.

Hurts Donut seals the victory & makes an IMPACT for @indi_hartwell in her debut!

WATCH #TNAiMPACT on TNA+: https://t.co/YdTMR8sonl pic.twitter.com/Pgs8pRm5vO
— TNA Wrestling (@ThisIsTNA) May 16, 2025

During a video package featured on the show last week, Hartwell didn't shy away from her intentions. She plans on becoming the TNA Knockouts World Champion. Her first rivalry on the road to TNA's top female prize remains to be seen.

Hartwell brings experience to the TNA roster, as she has been plying her craft for almost a decade. She's spent nearly half of her career with WWE, even capturing the "NXT" Women's Championship at one point.

Throughout her time with WWE, Hartwell was perhaps best known for her romantic storyline with Dexter Lumis on the "NXT" brand. The two even had a successful wedding angle, which is a rarity in wrestling. Lumis also helped Hartwell capture the "NXT" Women's Championship.

Hartwell's reign with the title only lasted for 31 days, as she suffered a foot injury. She was also drafted to the "WWE Raw" brand before returning from injury and being sent to 'SmackDown."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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