Former TNA World Champion Steve Maclin has opened up about his decision to leave the promotion, revealing he felt the time was right to move on after five years with the company.
Steve Maclin, who was officially granted his release on June 7, admitted the decision was difficult because of the close-knit atmosphere within TNA’s locker room, but said he believed he had accomplished what he set out to achieve.
Speaking with MuscleMan Malcolm, Maclin explained that he “saw the writing on the wall” and felt a fresh start would benefit his career.
“People were shocked I asked for my release, but five years is a long time in a company, and we’re in the territory area again, when it’s a global territory for pro wrestling. I saw the writing on the wall; it was time for me to leave, and maybe come back later down the road.”
Maclin reflected on working under multiple leadership teams during his time in TNA, crediting the company with helping establish him as a main-event performer.
“I went through three different regimes with Scott D’Amore, Ariel and now Carlos Silva. I was taken well care of. In the D’Amore era, I was built up nicely and got to the World Title and proved to the world who Steve Maclin is. I knew my worth then, and I got to show the world. I think people know my worth now, which is why I want to pop up anywhere.”
Steve Maclin Reveals What Was The Hardest Part About Leaving TNA
Despite believing the move was the right one professionally, Steve Maclin admitted leaving the TNA locker room was the toughest part of his departure.
“For five years, that locker room is the number one key in pro wrestling. I’ve never been in a bad locker room, but there is a different vibe with TNA and that locker room. It’s family-oriented.”
He added that informing his colleagues of his decision was particularly emotional.
“It hurt to feel like I let some of the guys and girls down, but I think everyone understood why.”
Maclin joined TNA in 2021 and went on to capture both the TNA World Championship and TNA International Championship during his five-year run before becoming one of several high-profile departures from the promotion in recent months.
