TNA Wrestling will crown a new Knockouts World Champion after Ash By Elegance vacated the title at Victory Road in Edmonton on September 26. During the event’s opening segment, she announced her decision to step away from in-ring competition, ending her reign after just over a month. The declaration came in the presence of TNA President Carlos Silva and Director of Authority Santino Marella.
Addressing the crowd, Ash cited personal reasons for her departure. “I’m no longer able to compete and do what I love to do,” she said in an emotional promo. “So with that being said, I’m stepping away from in-ring competition. And with a heavy heart, I have to forfeit this title.”
She then reflected on her time in TNA, acknowledging her heel character. “It was an honor to perform for the TNA fans, whether you cheered me or booed me—and you rightfully booed me because I was a stuck-up b–ch to you.”
Her announcement followed the cancellation of her scheduled title defense against Masha Slamovich. The contest was pulled after abuse allegations surfaced against Slamovich from her former partner, independent wrestler AKIRA. TNA confirmed that an internal investigation is underway.
After Ash relinquished the belt, Santino Marella revealed the plan to determine a new champion. A battle royal was held, with two finalists advancing to a singles bout for the vacant title on the next episode of TNA iMPACT. It was later confirmed that Lei Ying Lee and NXT’s Kelani Jordan will face off for the championship.
Ash By Elegance’s short reign began when she won the Knockouts World Championship from Jacy Jayne at the WWE NXT Heatwave event, marking a brief but notable chapter in the division’s history.