Company momentum convinced him to stay
Summary
– Santino Marella confirmed he has signed for another year with TNA
– He credited the company’s direction and AMC partnership for his decision
– His authority dispute with Daria Rae remains part of his on-screen role
Santino Marella has confirmed he is staying with TNA for another year, ending questions about his future as his current contract approaches its expiration.
Speaking on The Johnny I Pro Show, Marella said TNA President Carlos Silva approached him about returning. With contracts under discussion, Silva made it clear that the company wanted its Director of Authority to remain.
“Carlos is very proactive, and he talked to me last week and said, ‘Of course, we’d love you back.’ So, I signed for another year with TNA.”
Marella pointed to TNA’s momentum as a major reason for accepting. He praised the direction of the promotion, its relationship with AMC and the performances coming from the locker room.
“It feels like the right thing to do. It’s the right time.”
He also offered an unusual perspective on criticism of the company. Marella believes the increased negativity online reflects greater attention, and he felt Bound For Glory allowed TNA to answer its doubters.
His renewal also keeps him involved in the ongoing dispute over authority with Daria Rae. Marella described their differences as a clash between his audience-focused approach and her business priorities.
“She’s business-oriented, but I think I come from the perspective of fans more, and we butt heads a little bit. It makes for entertaining TV.”
The Director of Authority position has given Marella a role beyond announcing matches, putting him directly into conflicts involving the roster and other decision-makers.
With another year agreed, Marella can continue that work while remaining part of a company whose direction he clearly supports.
