Last September, domestic violence allegations were posted online against former TNA Knockouts champion Masha Slamovich. The texts and photographs were presented as evidence Slamovich abused her ex, independent wrestler Akira. They led a TNA investigation and the expiration of her contract there, and multiple cancelled indie bookings.
Slamovich has wrestled since the allegations broke, but just once, for a promotion out of Minnesota. That was small enough it didn’t register with the web crowd. But
the promoters of Squared Circle Expo 2026 put the issue front and center when they announced Slamovich for their March 27-28 event in Indianapolis on Facebook earlier, writing:
It is with great pleasure that we announce the addition of Wrestling Star, MASHA SLAMOVICH, to the superstar roster for Squared Circle Expo VI, happening March 27-28, 2026 @ the Wyndham Indianapolis West!
*** DISCLAIMER ***
Yes we are fully aware of Masha’s scenario and past. That being said, she has sincerely apologized, and she was even punished by her employer for her actions, she is also doing things to right her wrongs. We are all human, and we all make mistakes, and not only that, we do believe in second chances, and one scenario does not tell the story of a whole life. If you have a negative thought or urge to comment negatively, we do remind you that there are nearly 100 other superstars at this event, and that while you may harbor certain feelings, there are others that do not, and want to meet Masha. Please proceed respectfully, or just scroll on past till the next announcement. -Ed
* DISCLAIMER*
Born in Moscow, Russia, Masha is a former TNA Knockouts Tag Team and World Champion, and had mad many appearances for WWE and their NXT brand. A former GCW and JCW World Heavyweight Champion. Thanks to our friends over at DMZ Promotions for bringing in another debuting guest to Squared Circle Expo!
But by mid-afternoon, that post had been deleted and a new statement appeared on their page. This one cancelled Slamovich’s booking and reversed course to say second chances don’t apply to this case, at least not at the moment:
Alright guys and girls, it’s your favorite Squared Circle Expo Promoter (no matter what Adolfo says) and well….
First of all, I want to be transparent and say that I was who personally approved the appearance of Masha Slamovich to appear at Squared Circle Expo VI. I communicated with the vendor, and even discussed my concerns with them. After a ton of deliberation, it was decided that we would give Masha a chance to appear. It was not taken lightly or without hefty consideration.
I know we say all the time that we’re just a couple of dudes that love professional wrestling and want to share it with as many people as possible! That said, this situation has taught us that we’re also just a couple of dudes who are capable of getting it wrong…and boy did we ever.
After speaking to friends in the industry who know a bit more about the details of Masha’s situation, as well as carefully considering the feedback from fans and others in our business whose opinion we value, we have decided to pull Masha Slamovich’s appearance from the SCX VI. The vendor who was bringing her in for the appearance is also in agreement and fully supports the move as well.
While we still absolutely believe that many people will often deserve a second chance and the opportunity for redemption, the timing for this was ill thought out and regretable. We truly hope and wish for Masha to continue to better herself and hope that learning from past mistakes will allow for growth and a better future.
We greatly apologize to our supporters for making the wrong call with this one but greatly appreciate your feedback in steering us in a better direction.
Thank you all for taking the time to voice your concerns – we want you to understand that we hear you. Without you there is no us, and we are all insanely thankful for that! We are also insanely thankful for the opportunity to learn through your feedback so that we can make better decisions moving forward.
Now, can we get back to the awesomeness that is Squared Circle Expo VI?!?!?!
(Maybe more guest announcements incoming?)
-Ed
Slamovich has more bookings upcoming, including this Sunday at Maryland Championship Wrestling’s Fan Jam with Kurt Angle, Mickie James, and The Hardys. SI’s Jon Alba reported in December that TNA “plans to touch base with her and regroup in 2026”, indicating they hadn’t closed the door on a return despite letting her contract expire.
