Austin Aries issues statement about being labeled “difficult to work with” after he was suspended by TNA

I refused their request. I explained it was bad business and I honor my commitments, and they didn’t have the contractual right to control my bookings. And they certainly weren’t paying me enough to try.

I worked the ROH show, drove through a snowstorm, dealt with delays and cancellations, and still made it to FL hours before the PPV.

The next day I got suspended.

Not for ‘being late’ like they said.
But for not doing what I was told.

Then Dave Meltzer reported their version of events without context or asking my side of the story.

This was my intro to how the wrestling business and media operate. That’s where the ‘difficult to work with’ label started, or as Jim Cornette would say, ‘malcontent.’

And I won’t run from that label. I was extremely dissatisfied with the state of affairs and expressed my grievances in the early part of my career. Not about creative or wins and losses, but about the overall lack of integrity and honesty talent is routinely treated with.

Now 20 years later…

Companies still playing political games, underpaid talent used as pawns, and media used to shape narratives. While talent and fans pay the price.

It wasn’t right then, it isn’t right now.

So label me what you will, but also know the origins of the labels.

I’m grateful for the 15+ years I spent under contract and on TV.

But now as a truly independent contractor, I value being in control of my bookings and staying out of the politics and nonsense.

Book me and I show up.
Be professional, honest and fair, and you’ll get the same.”