Ahead of TNA Slammiversary 2026, the corporate made wrestling news headlines for multiple shakeups, including the departure of creative head Tommy Dreamer, along with multiple stars like Tessa Blanchard being granted their releases. Former “WWE SmackDown” author, “Road Dogg” Brian James reportedly began his work in TNA on the event, after departing WWE in March.
On an episode of “What Happened When,” Tony Schiavone commented on the reworkings inside TNA. The commentator praised each creative minds.
“I even have loads of love for Tommy Dreamer,” he said. “Don Callis knows Tommy thoroughly, and Don was the one which told me that Tommy’s not with TNA. I’m sorry to listen to that. I’m at all times sad to listen to that someone who’s been within the business for quite awhile, and who’s been a part of the business and principally given his life to the business, so to talk, has to maneuver on or has to look for one more job. So far as Road Dogg’s concerned, one among my favorite guys. Brian was tremendous, obviously, back throughout the Attitude Era… Glad to see that he’s moving on because I do know that he is excellent at what he does.”
Schiavone praised Road Dogg’s involvement with Ric Flair’s final match and told a story in regards to the production meeting ahead of the event. He said he positioned behind Road Dogg and had no idea it was him running the meeting, but thought to himself, “this f***** knows what he’s talking about.”
“He obviously has a great handle on what it takes to run things, so good for him,” Schiavone said. “I’m sad for Tommy and hopefully he’ll give you the chance to maneuver on in wrestling.”
Should you use any quotes from this text, please credit “What Happened When ” and supply a h/t to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.