NXT/TNA Showdown Match: Special Guest Referee Announced
Joe Hendry to Serve as Special guest Referee for NXT vs. TNA Showdown
Professional wrestler Santino Marella (real name Phillip Poupart) announced on October 6, 2025, that joe Hendry will be the special guest referee for the upcoming showdown between NXT and TNA (Impact Wrestling). Marella shared the news via a post on X (formerly Twitter), including a picture of the proclamation.
🚨 HUGE NEWS! 🚨
#NXT @ThisIsTNA @WWENXT pic.twitter.com/ZhDXf2hECa– Santino Marella (@milanmiracle) october 6, 2025
santino MarellaS X post announcing Joe Hendry as the special guest referee.
Background: NXT vs. TNA Rivalry
The rivalry between WWE’s NXT and TNA (now Impact Wrestling) has been a long-standing element of the professional wrestling landscape. Historically, the two promotions have competed for talent and viewership. Recent developments have led to a planned “Showdown” event, details of which are still emerging.
This event represents a meaningful cross-promotional effort, potentially attracting fans from both brands.The inclusion of a special guest referee adds another layer of intrigue to the match.
Joe Hendry: A Notable Referee Choice
Joe Hendry is a Scottish professional wrestler currently signed with Impact Wrestling. He is known for his in-ring work and his charismatic personality.Selecting Hendry as the special guest referee is a notable choice, given his active status as a competitor. This raises questions about potential bias or interference during the match.
Hendry’s involvement suggests a deliberate attempt to inject unpredictability into the NXT vs. TNA showdown.