UBS Arena in Elmont became a vibrant gathering place for wrestling enthusiasts on Sunday night as it hosted Total Nonstop Action Wrestling’s (TNA) annual “Slammiversary” pay-per-view event. An impressive turnout of fans, adorned in faux championship belts and dressed as their favorite wrestlers, added to the lively atmosphere.
This year’s event featured a notable collaboration between TNA and WWE, allowing several performers from WWE’s developmental group, NXT, to participate in the matches. It’s been a decade since TNA last showcased an event in Long Island, marking a significant moment for local wrestling fans, many of whom have clamored for more shows in the region.
Mike Irace of Oceanside expressed his enthusiasm outside the venue, highlighting the rarity of wrestling events on Long Island compared to locations like the Barclays Center and Madison Square Garden. His sentiments echoed a growing desire for local wrestling experiences.
The main event captured attention with a triple-threat match for the TNA World Championship, featuring Mike Santana, Joe Hendry, and Trick Williams, the latter entering the match as the defending champion. The event generated additional excitement when TNA announced that WWE superstar AJ Styles, a former TNA World Champion, would make a long-awaited appearance.
Professional wrestling historian Keith Elliot Greenberg attributed much of the event’s buzz to TNA’s evolving relationship with WWE, which holds historical significance in the region. Greenberg cited the first-ever “Saturday Night’s Main Event” in 1985 at Nassau Coliseum and the revival of the event last year, noting that TNA’s affiliation with WWE brings it to a new level of prominence.
For participants like Mike Santana, wrestling at the championship level in front of a Home audience where he grew up carried immense personal significance. He dedicated his performance to his late father, who introduced him to wrestling, marking a poignant moment in his career.
Fans like Aaron Jacobs, who often attends events dressed like “Macho Man” Randy Savage, expressed nostalgia for the history of wrestling in the area while relishing the chance to attend major events without extensive travel.
The successful event is indicative of a rekindled interest in wrestling on Long Island, suggesting a bright future for wrestling promotions in the area and a deeper engagement with fans. This resurgence reflects not only a passion for wrestling but also a sense of community among fans coming together to celebrate their love for the sport.
Overall, the event highlights a promising revival of wrestling excitement on Long Island, uniting fans and fostering cherished memories while celebrating the sport’s storied legacy.