Bully Ray Returns to Spotlight as TNA Makes Historic AMC Debut—But What Is AJ Styles Really Doing There?
TNA Wrestling is pulling out all the stops for one of the most important nights in its modern history, and a familiar name is leading the charge.
As TNA IMPACT prepares to air on AMC for the very first time, the company has confirmed that Hall of Famer Bully Ray will headline the broadcast — not in the ring, but at the commentary desk. Meanwhile, another legendary figure, AJ Styles, is confirmed to be in the building, though his exact role remains one of the biggest unanswered questions heading into the show.
Bully Ray Set for Special Role at IMPACT’s AMC Premiere
TNA officially kicks off its new television era on January 15, broadcasting live from the Curtis Culwell Center in Dallas, Texas. To mark the milestone, the promotion announced that Bully Ray will serve as the special guest commentator for the night’s main event.
The Dudley Boys legend, who alongside D-Von Dudley wrapped up his in-ring TNA career at Bound for Glory 2025 in the “One Final Table” match against Jeff and Matt Hardy, is making his first TNA appearance since retirement. This time, however, Bully Ray will be lending his voice and experience rather than delivering table-shattering powerbombs.
Reacting to the news on social media, Bully Ray simply wrote, “Get the announce table!” — a nod to his past and a tease of the energy he’s expected to bring to the booth.
A New TV Era for TNA on AMC
The move to AMC is a major statement for TNA as it looks to strengthen its television presence and reach a broader audience. The debut episode is being positioned as a must-watch event, blending star power, nostalgia, and the future of the company on one stage.
Adding a respected veteran like Bully Ray to the commentary team signals that TNA wants this premiere to feel big, polished, and historic.
AJ Styles Confirmed, But His Role Remains a Mystery
While Bully Ray’s involvement is now clear, AJ Styles’ participation is still surrounded by uncertainty.
The former TNA cornerstone, who first became a global star in the promotion before leaving for WWE in 2016, is scheduled to be present at the AMC debut. Styles last appeared in TNA in July, where he acknowledged X-Division standout Leon Slater in a moment that thrilled longtime fans.
Despite confirmation that “The Phenomenal One” will be in attendance, TNA has yet to reveal whether he will appear on-screen, speak to the crowd, or play any active role in the show.
All Eyes on Dallas
With Bully Ray officially announced and AJ Styles looming as a wild card, TNA’s AMC debut is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about IMPACT episodes in years. Fans will be tuning in not just for the matches, but to see how TNA blends its legendary past with its future on a brand-new platform.
One thing is certain — January 15 could mark a turning point for TNA Wrestling.
