TNA no more! America’s No. 2 pro-wrestling promotion rebranded itself this year with the tagline “Wrestling matters.” Returning to Austin for the first time since 2008, the innovative underdog comes back with the Phenomenal AJ Styles (pictured) heading up the card. Why do they call him “Phenomenal”? Let’s just say that the high-flyer didn’t take the top slot in Pro-Wrestling Illustrated‘s 2010 list of the Top 500 international wrestlers because he asked nicely. Styles and female grappler Sarita will be meeting fans at the Direct Auto Insurance (6630 S. Congress Avenue) from 11am to 1pm, but we’ve been warned to expect extra appearances throughout the day. Follow ring announcer Jeremy Borash via Twitter @JeremyBorash for “tweet & greets” with more chances to get up close and personal. Thu., July 28, 7.30pm. Austin Music Hall, 208 Nueces 512/263-4146. $20-50. www.impactwrestling.com.
This article appears in July 29 • 2011.