Santino Marella Names Two Future TNA Breakout Stars – Santino Marella believes the TNA roster is loaded with potential heading into 2026, and he has singled out two performers he feels are on the verge of taking a major leap forward. The TNA Director of Authority recently shared his outlook during an appearance on Medd in the Morning, where he was asked which talents fans should keep a close eye on in the coming year.

Marella pointed first to Leon Slater, a standout in the X-Division who has already built strong momentum but, in Marella’s view, is only scratching the surface of what he can become. “I guess I’ll continue to say Leon (Slater), I mean, he’s kind of already had a breakout year, but I believe he’s going to break out even further,” Marella said. Slater’s athletic style and consistency have quickly made him one of the most exciting young names on the roster, and his recent rise suggests TNA sees him as a long-term centerpiece.

Slater’s stock has continued to climb in recent months. He captured the X-Division Championship and has remained a focal point of weekly programming. His momentum carried beyond TNA as well, as he recently earned an opportunity to challenge for the NXT Championship. Slater won a Fatal 4-Way match to become the number one contender to Oba Femi, setting up a major title match at NXT New Year’s Evil in January. That opportunity alone highlights how highly he is regarded across promotions.

Marella also named Xia Brookside as another talent poised for a breakout year. “I think Xia Brookside, man, she’s poised to have an incredible year as well,” he said. Brookside has steadily grown her presence in the Knockouts division and has gained additional exposure through her tag team with Lei Ying Lee, known as the Angel Warriors. The duo has been featured regularly, giving Brookside valuable ring time and storyline development.

Both Slater and Brookside have benefited from consistent television exposure, which Marella believes is key to elevating performers from prospects to stars. His comments reflect a broader confidence in the direction of the TNA roster as the company moves into 2026.

Marella himself recently reminded fans of his own in-ring credentials. On the December 18 episode of TNA Impact, he returned to action by teaming with Matt Hardy, Mike Santana, and Steve Maclin in a steel cage match. While his role remains primarily behind the scenes, Marella’s connection to the locker room gives added weight to his predictions.

Santino Marella Names Two Future TNA Breakout Stars

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